Page 50 of Keeping Our Secrets

He held up his hand, palm facing me. “I don’t want to hear any of your excuses. I only want to hear a guarantee that you’re not here to cause any problems. I want to know that I can trust you to do what’s right.”

“That’s the plan, sir,” I responded. “I don’t know what she’s told you, but I didn’t expect my ex-girlfriend to do what she did. I’m in love with your daughter, and I want a chance to show her exactly how I feel.”

“That’s what I wanted to hear,” he told me. “As her father, I want to tell you to take off and never come back, but she needs you right now more than ever.”

“Thank you.”

“I’m sure you’ll be able to appreciate the importance of protecting your children from what you can, and supporting them when they need a crutch. This is me being her crutch. I’ll always be here for her if she falls, but I would like for her to find the man willing to hold her up so that doesn’t happen.”

“I’ll try my best.”

“She’s in her bedroom down the hall.”

“I appreciate it, sir.”

He stepped back, allowing me into his house. Once he closed the door behind us, I made my way down the hall in the direction he had pointed me. When I reached her bedroom door, it was closed, so I knocked.

“Give me a minute,” Mairi called. I could hear the rustle of sheets and blankets as she moved around in the bed. A moment later, the door swung open and I couldn’t help but examine her from head to toe. It had only been a couple days without her and it already felt like forever.

I was being a sappy fuck, but I didn’t care.

“What are you doing here?”

“Your mom told me this was where I could find you.”

“Why would she tell you that?”

“It’s the truth.”

“You didn’t tell her did you?”

“I didn’t tell her I was the father of your babies if that’s what you’re talking about.”

“Good.” She crossed her arms over her chest. “Now answer my question. What are you doing here?”

“I came to bring you home.”

“I am home.”

“No, you aren’t.”

“This is my home now.”

“I thought you said your home is with me.”

“Not anymore.”

“Why not?”

“Did you even go golfing?” she accused.

“We drove part way there, but had to turn around because of an accident on the highway. They were detouring everyone through neighbouring towns, so by the time we would have made it to the golf course our tee time would be over.”

“You made me the other woman.”

“No, I didn't.”

“I saw you kissing her.”

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