Page 43 of Step Daddy

Both detectives let out exaggerated sighs but rose from the couch. Lang regarded Kit before turning to leave. “This really is in your best interest. It’s also the quickest way to get him out of your Mom’s life.”

Gareth gritted his teeth. Low blow.

As soon as the door closed behind the men, Oliver leaned forward with his hands folded, propping himself by his elbows on his knees.

“Let’s think this through. I’m actually of a mind to recommend that Kit agree to their plan.”

“Seriously?” Gareth groaned. “And anyway, they don’t even have an actual plan. Send him in with a wire. That’s an idea, not a plan.”

The attorney nodded. “Yes, but I’d make sure that everything was clearly laid out ahead of time. We wouldn’t send him in there blind. I’ll keep on them about that.” Oliver regarded Kit. “Wouldn’t you rather just get this over with so you can move on with your life? Not have his specter hanging over you, wonder whether he’ll get away with it or if the Rodriguez brothers might end up deciding maybe you’re guilty after all? And the detectives are correct about another thing. This is the best way to get him away from your mother.”

Kit’s head dropped, covering his eyes with one hand. Gareth held him close, rubbing his back and not giving a shit what the damn attorney thought. He wanted to tell Oliver and the detectives a flat no, that Kit wasn’t going to participate in their little scheme. The fear that something could go horribly wrong and endanger his boy was eating at him.

At the same time, it wasn’t his place to order Kit not to proceed if it was what he believed he needed to do. Gareth could give him his opinion, be there to guide him like a good Daddy should, but ultimately it was Kit’s decision. What happened next could change the course of Kit’s entire life.

Gareth took Kit’s hand in both of his. “How do you feel about this?”

Kit sucked in a shuddering breath, his features twisted in confusion. “How do you feel about it?”

Gareth glanced at Oliver who arched his eyebrows. He turned back to Kit. “I think you can tell I’m not that thrilled. I’ll always look at everything through the lens of whether it’s safe for you. This idea has the potential for you getting hurt, so my first reaction is hell no.” Gareth pressed his lips together. “However, I also promised you we’d fight this, that I’d make sure Ted got the punishment he deserves. I can see how this might be the strategy that makes that happen.”

Kit’s pained expression radiated back at him. “To be honest, I’m thinking of Mom right now.”

Gareth reluctantly nodded. “And I can understand why you would.” Gareth gripped Kit’s hands tighter. “Baby, I can’t tell you what to do, and if you decide to go through with this, I’ll support you.” Gareth gave Kit a lopsided smile. “Be aware that I’m coming along, regardless.”

Oliver cleared his throat. “I don’t think the detectives will allow you to be part of the sting. They’ll want him to go in alone.”

“I figured.” Gareth smiled wider at Kit. “But I’ll be going with you to Lancaster, I’ll be waiting right next to the detectives while you’re in there.” Gareth turned to the attorney with narrowed eyes. “I’m putting my foot down on that one.”

Kit lowered his gaze, the seconds ticking by as he seemingly pondered what he should do. Gareth fought to keep from influencing Kit’s choice some more, but he never wanted to be the type of Daddy who bossed his boy around. His intention was to guide and nurture, not insist that everything be his way or the highway.

“Okay,” Kit lifted his head. “I’ll do it.”

Gareth’s stomach sank. His job now was to focus on helping Kit prepare for what lay ahead. Oliver rose.

“I’ll get the detectives.”

After Oliver left the room, Gareth took the opportunity to give Kit a kiss. Kit’s brow creased as Gareth drew away.

“You’re not mad at me?”

Gareth let out a sigh. “Baby… Of course not. I hope you’ll soon get used to the fact I’m not that way, and me being your Daddy doesn’t mean I always have to be right.” He grunted. “Or that I am always right.”

Kit seemed lost in thought but nodded. “I’m still kind of wondering if I should listen to you and refuse to get involved. But if I can help get this over with and get him away from Mom, then it’ll be worth it.”

“You know what else?”

Kit’s brow creased. “What?”

“You can always change your mind. I don’t want to bully you, but both me and Mr. Evanston will be making sure the detectives don’t bully you either.”

Kit’s shoulders relaxed and he let out a long exhale. “Thanks. That actually helps take some of the pressure off.”

“I’m glad.” Gareth gave Kit a hug.

The footsteps and voices gaining in volume alerted him they were no longer alone, and he reluctantly let Kit go. However, Gareth stood as a signal that the meeting was over. Supporting Kit’s decision was one thing—keeping him from getting too overwhelmed was another.

It was time for ice cream and some quality alone time with his boy.

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