Page 128 of Safe and Sound

“It’s the truth.”

“You just found out you’ve got a kid when you never wanted one, and now you’re ready to sign up for another.”

“I want to be a part of its life from the beginning.”

Regret pierced my heart, sending tears stinging my eyes. “I’m sorry, Dare. I know I can never make up for what I took from you, and that breaks my heart.”

“It’s okay.”

“No, it’s not.”

“You had your reasons then. You thought you were doing what was right for her. Now that you can see the picture more clearly, we can only focus on the future.”

Too overwhelmed to speak, I crashed my lips against his. I poured all the emotions swirling inside me into that kiss. Dare groaned against my lips, which caused heat to pool between my thighs.

He eased me down on the bed. When he pulled away, I gripped his shoulders. “Where are you going?”

“To get a condom.”

“You’re off the hook. I have an IUD.” When his eyes lit up, I couldn’t help laughing. “Maybe you weren’t as ready as you claimed, huh?”

“Maybe.”

I pressed my hand against his chest. “But that’s only pregnancy. Neither of us knows about STI’s.”

“I’ve never been bare with anyone.”

“Me either.”

He cocked his brows. “So we’re doing this?”

I grinned. “Absolutely.”

As his mouth closed over my nipple, Piper called, “Mommy!”

Fumbling with the covers, I said, “Oh shit. You have to hide.”

“Didn’t you lock the door?”

Scowling at him, I argued, “I kinda forgot in the heat of the moment last night.” Holding up the duvet, I shoved his broad shoulders. “Get under.”

“Seriously?”

“Yes,” I hissed.

With a wink, he replied, “If you wanted my head between your thighs, you only had to ask.”

“Oh, shut up.” I’d just gotten Dare covered when Piper threw open the door.

“Why’s you not up?” she demanded.

“I’m sorry, sweetie, but Mommy had a big day yesterday and was tired.”

When Dare snickered at my lie, I kicked him in the side. He reacted by grabbing my leg and throwing it over his shoulder, which caused me to jump.

At Piper’s questioning look, I said, “I had a cramp.”

“Kay, but I needs you to get up.”

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