Page 55 of Absolution

“I am.” He kisses the side of my head. “How are you feeling?”

As we leave his office, I answer, “Better. But my husband wore me out so much that I had to take a catnap.”

“What a bastard,” he mocks.

We’re about to enter the playroom, but before we reach the door, Aisling and Niko wiggle, wordlessly demanding to be let down.

They crawl to their respective areas when we walk inside and set them on the floor.

“Our children are beautiful,” Viktor remarks in awe.

Smiling, I admire our beautiful kids. “They are. We’re so lucky and blessed.”

“I can’t wait until we have our next one.”

I stare at Viktor like he’s crazy. “Who is having a next one? Don’t you have enough with the two in front of you?”

“I’m not saying right now. But I’d like to have more kids.”

His confession surprises me. “Really?”

“I want to fill this house with laughter.” After guiding me to the couch, he sets his hand on my knee.

“How about we get through the terrible twos and then revisit this conversation?” I suggest.

“I’m sure it’s not as bad as they say.”

“Says the man who needs to control everything,” I tease, my smile uncontained.

“Do you want more kids?” he asks.

I twist my lips. “I honestly hadn’t thought about it. I feel complete with Aisling and Niko.”

“I understand.” He sounds disappointed.

“It’s not a no. We have two babies who are as needy as their father. Maybe we should let things settle before we think about having another. At the very least, I want these two walking first.”

He squeezes my knee again. “Are you happy?”

“Yes. Why do you ask?” I place my hand on top of his, hating their coolness.

“You’ve been through so much because of me. You’re the most important person in my life besides our kids.”

The sweetness of his words disarms me. “What are you saying?”

“I need to know you’re happy. Ava. That I’m doing everything in my power to make you happy.”

I stop his words by softly kissing him on the lips.

After inching back, I admire his kiss-swollen lips before replying, “I couldn’t be any happier. I have everything I want. Two healthy babies and the man I love. Look…”

“Is she taking her first steps?” I follow his gaze, gasping when I spot Aisling taking unsteady steps.

“Yes, she is. She’s walking toward you,” I tell him.

We rush to Aisling.

“Are you coming to Dadda?” Viktor asks, standing in front of her with his arms outstretched.

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