Page 13 of Secret Baby and the Bratva

“I’m nervous. That was the only time I’ve ever had sex.”

“We took good care of you at Virgin Night, no?”

“You did.”

“And we will again, and in so many more ways. When you move in with us—”

“I’m keeping my job.”

“But only work from home part-time.”

“Same as now.”

“If at any time you want to stop, you can.” My heart is about to burst at the promise that she’s basically agreed to move in with us. My cock stirs underneath her at her admission of feelings for us. This is the best damn news ever.

“It’s important to me to have my own income.”

“We’ll match whatever you’re making—put it in your bank account every month.”

“I don’t want to be a kept woman.”

“Call it whatever you want. Call it alimony, child support, whatever. It’s yours.”

“I appreciate that, but let’s take this one step at a time.”

Ten

Margot

HarperandIaresitting on the floor celebrating the two-month birthday for our boys. Sadie is with us and looks ready to pop, but she’s got another month. My life is settling on a new happy normal as my two best friends are in my house celebrating with me. My house.

Moving in with the guys was a huge step, but now that I’ve done it, I can’t imagine looking back. The ample space gives me breathing room. The plush furniture makes sitting comfortable. There’s zero chance of tripping over dilapidated flooring. And I love the Russian nesting dolls. Is it childish to enjoy placing them side by side then returning them to one, over and over again? I can’t wait for Maverik to be old enough to do it.

Most importantly, I’m surrounded by people who love me. I laugh with my girlfriends, something I haven’t done in almost a year. This has been missing more than I knew, but when I was hiding, I refused to see either of them in public, and hardly even let them come over.

So much has changed in the last eleven months.

Harper picks up her sweet boy from the blanket. “You have a beautiful home, Margot. I’m so glad that you’re working things out with the guys.”

“Me too.”

Harper settles him into the carrier. “Can you believe we’re all having babies at the same time, and live so close together?”

“I hoped we would have kids at the same time, but this is crazy.” Sadie uses the coffee table to help hoist herself and her giant belly from the floor. “Does this mean you’re ready to let the apartment go?”

“Actually, not yet. I can’t explain. It’s too surreal. I mean, the three of us living in a gated community neighborhood, and I’m in a luxurious house with a security system app on my phone…I couldn’t be safer, right? I’m not ready.”

I try to play off the dark slope my mind is always tempted to go down when it comes to our men. But they have been changing their ways, sneakily undermining their grandfather. They stay one step ahead of him. When they suspect he’s about to call on a hit on someone, they find a different solution. I have to say it’s impressive, and Harper’s men are the absolute masterminds. My guys are learning.

A ruckus from the garage draws our attention.

“Oh, look at all these lovely ladies. We’re starting play dates already?” Yulian says.

“Just catching up with friends. I should have mentioned it.”

“They’re always welcome here. This is your home, Margot.” He wraps an arm around me and gives a chaste peck on my lips.

“Thank you,” I say.

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