Page 63 of Reunited By the Greek's Baby

Despite the growing understanding between them, she still held back, refusing to accept marriage. It drove him crazy. What more did he need to do to convince her? He could seduce her into agreement. But was that coercion? Besides, he wanted her thinking clearly and actively deciding to be his wife.

Every time they discussed marriage Isla withdrew, countering every point with some pragmatic, if negligible argument. He had to prove to her that on a practical level it was the most sensible option for them and their child.

‘You’re a stubborn woman, Isla.’

He felt her smile against his flesh. ‘Just as well, since you’re the most determined man I know.’

She made it sound like a compliment. ‘That’s all? Determined?’ He moved his hands across her delectable body, slowing as he reached places that made her soften and sigh.

‘And sexy,’ she sighed, twisting and arching into his touch, her voice suddenly breathless. ‘Sexy and sinful.’

Theo nearly told her there was nothing sinful about making love to the only woman he’d ever need. The woman who, he’d discovered, made him whole. But he didn’t want to scare her. He’d take it slow, convincing her with his actions and his loving that he was the man for her. Soon, surely, she’d admit it.

He just had to be patient. If it didn’t kill him first.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

‘ILIKETHESWIMSUIT,’ Toula said, looking up from her magazine as Isla walked across the roof terrace to the pool, the pavers warm beneath her bare feet. ‘I’m glad I persuaded you to buy it. Theo will approve, it’s classy but seductive and we all know how sexy he finds you.’

Isla blushed. She’d never had a sister, or anyone really, to talk with frankly about her private life. It took some getting used to but she liked it. She valued her budding friendship with Toula. Theo’s mother and stepsister had been so welcoming Isla began to believe she’d found the acceptance, the family, she’d always wanted.

She also adored that Theo found her sexy, even with her now well-rounded curves of obvious pregnancy. Intimacy was more satisfying than ever and even when they weren’t making love he usually had his arm around her or her hand in his as if, like her, he felt their growing connection.

‘No need to look embarrassed, Isla. It’s sweet the way you dote on each other. That’s why I always call before coming upstairs to the penthouse, to give you notice.’

Toula’s laugh was a rare, lovely sound, making Isla smile.

‘I approve. You’re good together.’ Toula paused, suddenly earnest. Theo’s sister was so different to the waif-like woman she’d met weeks ago. More outgoing, more ready to talk. ‘He’s a good man, you know.’

Isla sank onto a sun lounge next to Toula’s. ‘I know. He’s special.’

She’d seen him with his family and others, both relaxed and under stress. She’d felt his care for her and seen the long hours he worked to get the family business back on track. He was dependable, honest and caring.

They were good together, their trust and affection growing daily. Was it any wonder her doubts disintegrated like water evaporating in the spring sunshine?

Her blood pumped faster. She trusted Theo.

She loved him.

Isla had fought against his logic and her own desires too long. She loved him so much and believed in time he’d learn to love her too. She wanted to be with him and support him.

She was ready to marry him.

‘Why don’t you put him out of his misery and marry him?’

Isla lifted her head sharply. ‘I needed to be sure.’

Toula leaned forward, her magazine falling. ‘But you’re sure now?’

‘That’s a discussion for me to have with your brother.’

Eagerness filled her. Maybe tonight before they went out to the black-tie dinner. She’d wear the gold dress he liked so much and tell him her decision. Maybe they’d stay home to celebrate...

Seeing Toula’s assessing look, Isla sought a distraction. She glanced at the magazine on the ground and saw it was a university prospectus. ‘You’re considering study?’

‘Perhaps. I don’t have a good track record for sticking at things.’ Toula shrugged. ‘But after all my counselling sessions I’ve discovered an interest in psychology.’

It was wonderful that Toula was thinking about the future. ‘It’s not the end of the world if you begin and change your mind. But my experience is that if you find the subject interesting you want to stick at it.’

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