Page 63 of The Doctor's Twins

“That reminds me,” I laughed, “you need to teach me some more karate moves, Buster.”

“Of course. But first I’m going to show you a few of my gynecologist moves,” he said, picked me up, carried me to the bedroom, and rocked my world.

* * *

“Hi, Mom, it’s me.”

“Peyton, my love. What’s wrong? Are you alright?”

My poor parents were on a knife's edge since I’d shared the truth about Mateo with them. I felt so awful about that.

“I’m alright, Mom. Nothing’s wrong. Just calling to say hi.”

“Oh, goodness. My heart skipped a beat there. So nice of you to call, my love. How are you?”

“I’m so well, Mom. I moved in with Ben.”

I didn’t tell them about the accident. I’d put my parents through enough.

“I see.”

“Don’t worry, Mom,” I said when I heard her hesitant tone. “He’s nothing like Mateo. Ben is lovely and he’s very protective over me.”

“In that case, I’m happy for you, Peyton.”

“Thank you, Mom. How are you guys doing? Madi must be popping out of her clothes.”

“Yes, the poor dear is taking a bit of strain this time around. She’s so busy with the boys too. I wish she’d use me more. But you know Madison. She’s a DIY girl when it comes to her family.”

“That she is.”

“How are you really, Pey? I’m sorry. Here I am banging on about Madison’s pregnancy.”

“Don’t be silly, Mom. I'm very happy for her. Please, don’t worry about me. I’m doing well. I really am. Being with Ben has made all the difference. I don’t know what I would have done if it weren’t for him.”

“When can we meet him?”

“I’ll have to give that one some thought. But I’ll find a way of getting you all together safely.”

“I hate that you have to hide like this, my love. It isn’t right.”

“I hate it too, but I know Mateo. He’ll be watching you. I’m so thankful that I managed to sneak in and out of town to see you the last time. I find that I’m still holding my breath without realizing it every time I leave the house or the hospital. It’s such a burden.”

“He won’t find you, baby. You’re being so careful. And don’t worry about us. We understand your predicament. It’s just that I miss you terribly.”

“I miss you too, Mom.”

I’d learned to treasure my telephone conversations with my family. Madison and I spoke often, and I called home to talk to Mom and Dad at least once a week. I was sure I couldn’t be traced as I always used a burner phone.

Just in case.

18

BEN

“Ihave a surprise for you, sexy,” I told Peyton one morning early when I delivered her usual morning cuppa.

“Hhmm, coffee,” she said in a sleepy tone.

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