Page 64 of The Bachelor's Dilemma

“Why not? You’re young and pretty and fun to be with. And you have an adorable child who needs a father.”

She nodded.

“A lot of men don’t want to raise someone else’s child.”

“I’m not a lot of men.” He looked back toward the preschool. “I enjoyed working at Zack’s school, using talents I have for something besides earning a living. That’s a good group of people, working to make life better for their children.”

Tell her,something inside urged.She needs to know.

“That’s certain.” She glanced at him, glanced away. “I’m not sure I can give you an answer right now.”

“Forget about it. Let’s keep on as we’ve been and see what develops,” he suggested.

Tell her, tell her.

She met his gaze.

“I won’t ever forget. You caught me by surprise, that’s all.”

He nodded. Taking a deep breath, he turned. Soon, they were both walking back to the apartment. Anna knew she’d disappointed him. He’d obviously been thinking about this for a while and had obviously hoped she’d immediately accept.

Why hadn’t she? The last weeks had been special. Myles was special. Why was she hesitating?

He’d had more excitement in his life than she’d ever see, yet was willing to settle down with her and make a family. At least, that’s what she thought.

“Do you plan to quit working abroad?” she asked.

“Yes. I wouldn’t marry and leave you,” he said.

“Settle here or back in Chicago?” she asked.

“Here. Or in the vicinity at least. I was thinking maybe something in Long Island. I’d like to be near the water after all the desert living I’ve done. But I’m flexible.”

Anna looked ahead, seeing her apartment building in the distance. If she married Myles, it’d mean a drastic change. Moving from this neighborhood wouldn’t be a problem. It worried her that Zack would have to grow up here.

But to marry Myles, make a home with him? It would be completely the opposite of anything she’d expected.

The question remained: Would she be happy with Myles?

Yes.

So what was the problem?

Zack?

Myles seemed to enjoy being with him as much as with her. And Zack clearly adored Myles. Would they be a perfect match?

She cleared her throat.

“Actually, you haven’t seen Zack when he throws a tantrum. He can be less than endearing sometimes.”

Myles looked at her. The words were ready to be spoken. Would it make a difference?

Instead, he said, “All kids throw temper tantrums. That doesn’t change how we feel about them. Are you worried I won’t love him?”

He’s my son. I’ll always love him.

“No. I…you caught me by surprise, that’s all. Give me a couple of days, please? I don’t want to make a spur-of-the-moment decision.”

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