Page 52 of Cause and Effect

“That’s not fair,” Sara whined, and all three of them started arguing over each other.

I let out a loud whistle, and they turned and looked at me.

“What is going on?” I asked.

“I want to take a bath first!” Stella said.

“Why can’t you all take baths at the same time?”

“We only have one bathtub, duh!” Sophie spoke.

“My mom’s bathroom only has a shower,” Stella said. “They can take showers while I take a bath.” She placed her hands on her hips.

I pulled out one of the chairs at the table and sat down.

“Come here, girls.”

The three of them walked over and stood in front of me.

“I know a way all three of you can take a bath separately but at the same time.”

“How?” Stella asked.

“The four of you are staying at my house tonight. I have four bathrooms with bathtubs. That way, you lovely little ladies can swim after breakfast in the morning.”

“Really?” Sophie beamed with excitement.

“Julian—” Laurel snapped.

I glanced up at her as she stood behind the girls, arms folded and an angry look on her face.

“Go on, girls. Pack a bag with all of your necessities. We’re leaving in ten minutes.”

They ran out of the kitchen, and I knew I was in trouble with Laurel.

“What the fuck are you doing?” She gritted her teeth.

“Making sure you and the girls are safe tonight. Besides, we have to call a tow truck in the morning for your car, and it’ll be easier since we’ll already be at my house.”

“We’re fine, Julian. We’ll be safe. I can protect my girls.”

“I know you can.” I stood and gripped her hips. “But I’ll be worried all night, and I don’t want to have to be. I won’t worry as long as you’re at my house with me. Now, go pack a bag. You have five minutes.” I gripped her shoulders and turned her around. “Go on.”

“I swear to God, Julian,” she huffed, walking out of the kitchen.

Having the girls stay at my house wasn’t the best idea. I didn’t like people invading my personal space, especially children. But I would be up all night worrying about their safety if they stayed here. Pulling out my phone, I called Simon.

“Julian, my man. What’s up?”

“Hey, Simon. I’m sorry to bother you on a Saturday night.”

“No big deal. Just hanging with the family.”

“I had to drive Laurel and the girls home, and Laurel believes someone was in her house while she and the girls were gone all day. The front door was unlocked, and one of the kitchen chairs was pulled out as if someone was sitting in it. Laurel said she knew that it wasn’t like that when they left. I’m taking them back to my house for the night.”

“Good idea. Text me her address, and I’ll swing by in the morning and take a look around.”

“Thanks, Simon. I appreciate it.”

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