Page 93 of Cause and Effect

“Yeah, but that was then. This is now.”

“Nothing’s changed. You’re very kind to let us stay here, but it changes nothing.”

“I understand.” He left the room and shut the door.

Chapter Thirty-Six

Julian

I was pissed and needed to talk to my brothers. Since Parker wasn’t home, I went down to Roman’s. When I walked through the front door, Roman turned and looked at me.

“Hey, bro.”

“Am I interrupting?” I asked as he and Morgan were snuggled on the couch.

“Not at all.” Morgan smiled. “Have a seat.”

“Thanks, Morgan.” I sat in the chair across from the couch.

“Drink?” Roman got up.

“Yeah. I really need one right now.”

“Why? What happened?” Morgan asked.

“It’s just Laurel. She refuses to sleep in my bed.”

“Do you blame her?” Roman chuckled, handing me my drink.

“I specifically put her bag in my bedroom. She went and got it and took it upstairs to the guestroom. She toldme just because I was kind enough to let her and the girls stay, it changes nothing.”

“Again, do you blame her?” Morgan smirked. “Listen, Julian. She has been put through the wringer today.”

“I know. That’s why I want her in my bed so that I can comfort her.”

“It doesn’t work like that,” Morgan said. “She’s still hurt by what you said to her.”

“But actions speak louder than words, right?” I asked.

We heard Maddie’s cries through the monitor. “I’ll go settle her down,” Morgan said, leaving Roman and I to talk.

“Listen, brother. Don’t toy with her emotions. She’s dealing with a lot right now.”

“I’m not toying with her emotions. I fucking want her, Roman. I—I—love her.”

The corners of his mouth curved upward. “Are you ready for a future with Laurel and the girls? Because the girls are part of the package.”

“Yeah. I’m ready. I’ve missed those girls the past couple of weeks.” I breathed out a laugh. I never thought I’d say something like that. Danielle and I used to talk about having kids, and after we broke up, I decided I never wanted any. Now, I have the chance to be a father figure to three beautiful and brilliant little girls, and I wanted it.

“Okay. Then this is what you have to do. Give Laurel the space she wants and needs. She’ll give you another chance in due time. Don’t chase after her, don’t try to sleep with her, or make a fuss when she won’t sleep in your bed. Just take care of the four of them, and it’ll happen naturally.”

“You think so?” I asked, tipping the glass to my lips.

“I'm certain of it.” He grinned. “Here's the plan for tomorrow. We’re tailing Morgan when she heads out of theoffice tomorrow morning to provide Jason with his new identity. After she leaves, we'll ensure that man never returns here.”

“Thank God. I was going to tell you and Parker the same thing. I already planned on having a nice chat with the undead man.” I threw back the rest of my drink. “I should get home.”

Roman and I hugged. “It’s good to have you back,” he said.

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