Page 77 of Piper's Pyro

“Yeah. It’s going to take time to earn back your trust. I’m okay with that. I’ll do anything you want. Just tell me it’s not too late.”

She blinked away more tears. “What if you’re scared off again?”

“I won’t be.”

“You don’t know that.”

“Yes, I do.” I reeled her into my arms. “I will never leave you again because I love you and can’t live without you.”

“You love me?”

“Princess, you’re all I need.”

“You’re only here for me?”

Her question took me aback. “Yes, no one else matters to me but you.”

She hooked her arms around my neck. “If you leave me again, that’s it.”

“Understood. I really am sorry for hurting you.”

“Just don’t do it again.”

“Can I kiss you?”

“No.”

“No?”

“I have something to tell you first. Your reaction will determine where we go from here.”

“Is this a test?”

“I guess it is.” Her expression was indifferent, which freaked me the fuck out.

“Okay. Tell me.”

“I’m pregnant.”

“Yes!” I lifted her in my arms and spun her around. She giggled and I smiled like a fool. “You’re stuck with me for at least the next eighteen years, princess.” I put her on her feet and smothered her with kisses. “You know this means we’re bound for life through our child.”

“Yes.” She kissed me back.

“Can you handle it?”

“Yes, because I love you too.”

Clapping and cheering came from the porch.

“They gave me their blessing.”

She reared back, stunned. “They did?”

“Yes, princess. Everything is going to be okay. You just wait and see.”

“So what’s the bus for?”

I lifted her like a groom would carry his bride. “Our temporary home.”

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