Page 94 of Sin and Deception

“Of course they did.” The outrage on Fiona’s face was almost comical. “You have to celebrate everything you’ve overcome.”

“You sound like Mama,” I grumbled.

“You had to know she wouldn’t take your side on this. You’re her eldest child. She wants that big wedding, even if you aren’t taking the traditional path.”

“I suppose you’re right. At least it’s going to be soonerrather than later.”

“Meaning?”

“Late June.”

“That’s barely a month from now.” She cocked her head to the side. “Are you insane?”

“It was either that or the justice of the peace.”

She hugged me tightly, whispering, "I love you, sis."

"I love you too," I whispered back.

As we released each other, we said goodnight and went our separate ways.

I walked down the hallway to my suite of rooms, which felt less private now with the boys so close to the bedroom I shared with Theo and Xander. At least there was a small sitting room separating us from the babies, considering their fathers’ sexual appetites and my inability to keep quiet.

Regardless of how drastically our lives had changed, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of happiness.

But as I walked down the hall, instead of toys scattered on the floor, I found random pieces of men's clothing. They were all damp. I glanced up at one of our guards, who pursed his lips as if trying to stifle a laugh, then shrugged in response to my questioning look.

What would I discover upon entering the room? Taking a deep breath, I turned the knob and stepped inside, bursting into laughter at the chaotic scene that unfolded before me.

Theo and Xander lay in their underwear, sprawled on the floor beside the boys' cribs. On top of them were two diaper-clad boys who still seemed to have soap on their bodies. Theroom was a complete mess, with bath toys and towels scattered everywhere.

I couldn't help but pull out my phone to snap a few pictures. This is what life is really about.

My family.

My loves.

My children.

For the first time in ages, I felt truly happy.

Xander's eyes flew open, and he frowned. "Are you filming us?"

"No, just taking some pictures," I laughed.

"It's the same thing. Get rid of them. I don't want any evidence of this." He stood up and placed Charis in his crib.

Before I could say anything else, Theo stirred and opened his eyes. "What's going on?"

I giggled, trying to hold back my laughter. "I have a question for both of you."

"Don't even say it," Theo groaned sleepily.

"I'm just curious," I insisted, wearing a mischievous smile.

"You'll pay for it," Xander warned as he walked toward our bedroom.

As I followed him, I stoked the flames. “Who had more trouble at bath time? You or the boys?"

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