Page 49 of The One He Desires

Do I need to get prepared?

My attention returns to the story as the reporter continues with more information.

“From what I’ve gathered from a few people who didn’t wish to be on camera or give a direct statement is that an unknown person walked up to the victim and shot him without saying a word. Then he walked off. KPD is investigating, and the story is still developing. Back to you in the studio.”

“Thanks, Whitney.” Leslie goes on to other news around Kaigood, and I cut the TV off.

I then turn to face Journee, who sits stock-still as she blinks continuously. I’m not sure what’s on her mind, but mine is everywhere.

“Tell me what you’re thinking,” I say in a calm and gentle tone.

A cute snore escapes Sweet Face’s mouth as Journee’s and my eyes shift downward to her. A smile upturns Journee’s lip that I easily match, as adoration increases the beat of my heart.

“We’re free,” Journee whispers.

“You’ve been that way since the day you cussed me out,” I declare with confidence.

My phone chimes, and it pops the bubble of love that flows between Journee and me in this moment. For some reason, my heart rate increases when I pick up my phone and see Jamarion’s name. Air expels from my lungs when I read the reply to my text from moments ago.

Jamarion:

It wasn’t me this time. I’m mad about that more than the outcome.

Me:

Say less.

My two-word reply is all I have as my focus shifts back to the two people who matter most in this scenario.

“Do you want to talk about anything? Any feelings that I need to help you sort through?”

“Nope. According to my mother, vengeance should always be God’s job.” Journee shrugs, leans down, and places a kiss on Sweet Face’s cheek which lets me know that all is well.

“Shout out to the King of Kings for being our vindicator.” I smirk as the tension leaves my shoulders, and the air around the room becomes light again.

The knowledge of Brian’s death doesn’t fill me with sorrow. In fact, it relieves me because, this time, he won’t be able to go back on his word. Now, I’m free to give Journee the love she deserves and Sweet Face the father who will never abandon her. Shout-out to karma for leveling the playing field, though.

“Daddy, Mommy sick.”

Time stands still, and so does my body as I freeze when my mind registers the first word out of Sweet Face’s mouth. All of my thoughts evaporate as I replay the three words that will forever hold weight in my heart. Milan just called me Daddy.

“Daddy? You hear me?” Sweet Face’s right hand goes to her waist as she gives me a hard expression.

Oh my God! She said it again.

My brain spirals, but I don’t have time to keep internally melting when Sweet Face huffs and her eyes flash with anger.

“I’m sorry, Sweet Face. Uh, where is she?”

“Kischen. Come on.” Sweet Face stomps her little foot, and it forces me to shake off my shock, awe, and brain spasm.

Sweet Face grabs my hand once I’m within her reach and practically drags me down the steps as I fight to return to normal. My antennas go up when we reach the kitchen, and my eyes zero in on Journee hovering over the trash can. I release Sweet Face’s hand and swiftly jump into action. My hands soothingly rub Journee’s back as she dry heaves. When she lifts to her full height, my chest constricts when I see the tears sliding down her face.

“What do you need?”

“You to promise me forever. My period is late.”

“That’s a foregone conclusion. But in this moment. What do you need?