“Come on,” I whispered, my own energy waning. “Let’s go find our daddies.”
CHAPTER 36
KYLIE
Patrick took me back to his apartment. It felt like a refuge amidst the chaos of the last few weeks. The spacious apartment was surprisingly cozy, with soft lighting that warmed the room and muted the starkness of the outside world. The faint scent of his cologne and something sweet lingered in the air. I inhaled, feeling his warmth. The living room comprised a dark leather sectional in an L shape, a round dark wooden coffee table scattered with paperwork, folders, and notebooks. Opposite the couch, a wall of shelves housed a modestly sized flat screen with books, framed photos, and other knick-knacks. I picked up a photo of him, Josh, and Kyler. They looked so young.
“When was this taken?”
“High school.” He collected the paperwork from the coffee table and stacked it on the side table. The small kitchenette sat in a corner behind a small, round glass-top table with two chairs.
“Where’s the bedroom?” I peered at the door behind him. He pointed across the apartment to the only other door in the place, behind me.
“What’s back there?” I pointed.
“Let me show you something?” He reached out his hand; I took it. He opened the door and stepped to the side. The room was empty except for a cozy, overstuffed chair near the floor to ceiling windows and the teddy bear from Rayna’s playroom.
“How did he get here?” I asked and skipped to him. I hugged him to my chest; his soft fur against my cheek made my insides melt.
“He’s been waiting for you?” Patrick slid into the chair and pulled me onto his lap. “I think he needs a name.”
“How about Oz?” I drew out the zzz. “The magic of Oz brought us together.”
We stared at each other, and both laughed. “I know, super corny.”
“Yeah, but I love it.” He nuzzled my neck. “So, what do you think of the room?”
“You looking for a roommate?” I swung my legs back and forth, snuggling with my new friend.
“Nope.” I turned my face toward his, and he captured my lips. He kissed them twice before nibbling on my bottom lip. Oz squished between us. “You know what I’m looking for.”
I pulled back. “One second, Daddy.” I hopped off his lap and set Oz behind the chair. “He’s too little to be seeing us get all sexy in front of him.”
Patrick chuckled. “You didn’t answer my questions.” Instead of pulling me into his lap, he stood up and lifted me in his arms. “I want you to move in with me so I can keep a close eye on you. Hold you anytime I want.” He tickled my sides. “Will you be my little girl, Kylie?”
“Stop, Daddy.” I giggled. “You really want me to move in. Why?”
“So I can love you.” He whispered against my lips before kissing me.
When he allowed me to breathe. His words echoed around my brain. Love me.
Did Patrick Carmichael love me?
“Yes, Kylie.” He caressed my cheek with the back of his hand. “I love you, my little sneak.”
And he could read my mind. I know I did not ask that question out loud.
I opened my mouth, but before I could speak, Patrick kissed me.
I tried again, but he kissed me again, making me forget what I was going to say.
I pouted, and once again it was met with a kiss.
He walked us through the apartment into his bedroom, never breaking our kiss, even as he walked us to the bedroom. Patrick laid me down and continued his assault until my clothes fell off. Leaning on one arm, his free hand roaming as his mouth left mine to explore down my body. His touch was soft and gentle. Tears sprang to my eyes.
“Hey, baby.” He stared down at me. “What’s wrong?”
“I love you, too.” I sobbed and buried my face in his neck. “And I want to be your little girl. Forever.”
