“Even though Hyde might?—”
“Especially because of Hyde.” She touched his chest. “All of you, remember? That’s what I signed up for.”
He kissed her, slow and deep and full of promise.
When they broke apart he was smiling. “Come on. Let me show you.”
He led her upstairs. The second floor had three doors. Two open, one closed.
He opened the first door. “Our bedroom.”
She stepped inside and studied the room. It was simple, but comfortable. A large bed with a thick navy comforter was positioned against one wall and windows overlooking the snow-covered garden lined the other. There was a reading chair in the corner and soft rugs on the hardwood floor.
Peaceful. Welcoming.
Perfect.
“I can change anything you want,” he said quickly. “The colors, the furniture?—”
“It’s beautiful. I love it.”
He relaxed slightly. “Bathroom’s through there, and there’s plenty of closet space.” He paused. “Come on. One more room.”
They walked to the second open door. He hesitated with his hand on the frame, looking suddenly nervous.
“I know the baby isn’t mine biologically,” he said quietly. “I know I don’t have any right to?—”
“Victor—”
“But I love this baby already. Both of us do. And I want—” He took a breath. “I want to be a father. If you’ll let me.”
Her vision blurred. “Of course I’ll let you. I want that too.”
Relief and joy flooded his face as he pushed open the door. The room was empty but full of potential. Large windows. Good light. Space for a crib and changing table and all the things a baby would need.
“I thought we could make this the nursery,” he said. “Together. Pick out colors and furniture. Make it… ours.”
Ours. Not just two separate people trying to survive alone, but a family.
She turned and wrapped her arms around him, holding him tight.
“Thank you,” she whispered. “For choosing us. For loving us. For being brave.”
His arms came around her, strong and sure and gentle.
“Thank you for seeing me,” he said. “All of me. For not being afraid.”
They stood there holding each other. The empty nursery waiting to be filled. The future spreading out before them, full of possibility.
The baby kicked between them, strong and insistent, and he laughed, putting his hand on her belly. “I think someone’s excited too.”
“Or impatient.” She smiled up at him. “Wants to meet their dad.”
“Dad.” He tested the word, then returned her smile. “I like that.”
“Good.” Chloe kissed him. “Because you’re stuck with us now.”
“Best thing that ever happened to me.”
