Page 50 of Barron

“Mmm-hmm?”

“Please forgive me. I got caught up in the moment and completely forgot.”

“The condom?” she asked in a soft voice. He glanced down at her. Damn. She noticed.

“Why didn’t you stop me?”

She sighed, turning to speak. “Number one, I trust you. If youweren’t sure, you wouldn’t compromise my health with unprotected sex. And number two, I wasn’t ready to admit a few truths.”

“Such as?”

“I was on the Depo shot when we dated. The efficacy expired while I was in Miami, but I took it again before coming up. I was in an optimistic mood. I prayed we’d find our way back to each other, and if we did, I wanted to be ready. You know I hate condoms.”

He nodded, hiding the twinge of disappointment. For a brief second, he’d entertained a vision of Yoanni pregnant with his child. The feeling had been wondrous. Something to consider and talk about.

“Sounds like you were sure I’d go after you.”

“Nooo.” She pushed against his chest to twist away.

But he tightened the hold. “Don’t you turn from me,” he growled.

“See? I was afraid you’d take it that way. I was only hopeful. Nothing more. Didn’t hurt to be prepared, even if you didn’t want to see me again.”

The anguish in her trembling voice lanced his heart. She’d feared their end and had suffered it. He’d done this to her.

“I didn’t lie when I said you’re everything to me, Yoanni. You live in my heart and mind.” He kissed her head. “I don’t know how I managed our separation. Blade made fun of me and said I was blind. Yes, I was blind and lost. Sounds cheesy, but it’s true. I lived in a dark place without you. I can hardly believe you’re giving me a second chance. I’m glad you took the Depo shot, but I’d be lying if I said I’m not disappointed. Seeing you pregnant is one of my secret fantasies.”

“You want children?” She burrowed into his chest.

“With you? Absolutely.”

“Then maybe…”

“Once we figure out who’s trying to hurt you and get himout of the way for good, we can make plans. Put a few details in order.”

“Do you mean, like, settle down with a family, kids, and stuff?”

He smiled. “Kids and stuff.”

“Can we have fun before we get serious?”

Barron laughed. “You’re so cute.” He rubbed his chin on her head. “I’m all about the fun before the serious stuff. Would you like to visit Nightshade?”

She jumped up. “The kinky place? You mentioned it before. Yes. I would love to go with you. I want to see the special room for age play and Littles.”

“It’s well made. You’ll love it.”

“When?”

“Not tonight, Nugget. I don’t think I’m out of the woods with the concussion. Let’s plan on Thursday. It’s a good night to visit a club. It’s not overcrowded, but there’ll be enough people to create sexual tension and an exciting atmosphere.”

“Ooh, I’m going shopping for a cute outfit. It’ll be a surprise, Daddy.”

He exhaled. “Oh, boy. I can’t wait.”

Hours later, Barron loaded a superhero movie, one of Yoanni’s favorites, in his player. They sat to watch, cuddled up in each other’s arms. As the movie progressed, she fidgeted, laughed, and made enthusiastic comments about the plot. Barron nodded and smiled in absent response. In this precious intimacy, his mind chastised him.You don’t fucking deserve this.

Yoanni had opened her heart to him with barely a reproach, but he still owed her. He’d put her through heartache, and why? Because he didn’t have the guts to confront the issue. Before thebreakup, they touched the Daddy Dom subject in casual conversation and played a couple of times, but nothing too involved. Instead of giving her a full demonstration of his dominance, he’d made the relationship so impossible, she had to let go. All because he was terrified of her rejection. His life growing up had been one rejection after another. Why would Yoanni be any different?

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