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The pen glides smoothly across the paper as I finish filling out my report. I’d be lying if I said my mind wasn’t elsewhere, though. Harper and the guys have been gone for hours with the kids, and I can’t help but wonder what they’re up to and if everything went okay when she went to pick the kids up from her mother.
My thoughts are interrupted by the sound of the door opening. The arrival of Harper, Benedict, and Hudson is like a breath of fresh air that dispels my lingering unease. They enter, laughter and chatter filling the room, bringing with them an atmosphere of warmth that seems to chase away the chill outside.
“Hey,” Harper calls out to me, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “We’re back!”
“Clearly,” I reply, trying to keep my tone light, but I can feel the tension in my chest as I take in the scene before me.
Benedict and Hudson each hold a kid, their faces lit up with genuine affection. Something stirs within me at the sight. I’ve never thought that I’d be the type of man to want children, let alone have some of my own, but Harper’s children being here feels right.
“What were you guys up to?”
“Fair,” Benedict answers.
“Did you all have fun?” I ask, forcing a smile onto my face as I stuff the completed report into its folder.
“Absolutely!” Hudson beams, ruffling the hair of the little boy nestled against his chest. “These little rascals sure know how to have a good time.”
“Can’t argue with that,” Benedict chimes in, grinning ear to ear as the girl in his arms giggles and tugs on his beard.
“Uncle Benny’s funny!” she declares, sending another wave of laughter through the group.
“Can I talk to you for a second, Harper?” I ask her.
She looks at me for a second before nodding. “Sure.” She looks at the others. “You can take them to the room. I’ll be there soon.”
Benedict and Hudson lead the kids toward Harper’s bedroom, their laughter filling the air. The door closes behind them, leaving a momentary silence that seems to breathe life into the Christmas tree standing tall in the living room.
“Antonio,” Harper says, her voice soft enough to be mistaken for a whisper. “What’s going on?”
“I cleared up everything with the fire station, and the insurance company,” I respond, clearing my throat and trying to push aside the lingering thoughts of children and family. “They’re going to give you the money they owe you.”
Her big, beautiful green eyes widen. “Really! Oh, thank you so much.”
“An insurance agent called earlier,” I begin, carefully watching her reaction. “He wants to meet with you at the bakery. They’re ready to settle.”
“Really?” Harper’s face lights up with a mix of surprise and hope. “This is the best news I’ve heard all day. When?”
“He said he can meet us there now if we head over right away.”
“Us?” she asks, a hint of uncertainty coloring her tone.
“Yeah, I thought I’d come along,” I offer, trying to sound casual while my insides twist with anticipation. “You know, just to make sure everything goes smoothly.”
Her eyes search mine, vulnerability flickering within them, and she bites her lower lip. “Antonio, you don’t have to do this. You’ve already done so much. I don’t want to be a burden on you or anyone else.”
“Hey,” I say softly, stepping closer and placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. The warmth of her skin seeps through the fabric, sending a shiver down my spine. “You’re not a burden, Harper. I want to help you. And offering you a ride is the least I can do. Besides, I probably know a lot more about this stuff than you do.”
Her eyes glisten with unshed tears, and she nods, taking a deep breath. “Thank you, Antonio. I really appreciate it.”
“Of course,” I reply, giving her a gentle smile before releasing her shoulder. The loss of contact leaves me craving more, but I push the desire aside.
“Let me just let Benedict and Hudson know what’s happening, and then we can go.” Her voice is steadier now, determination shining through.
“Take your time,” I assure her, watching as she crosses the living room and slips into the bedroom where the boys are with the kids. She shuts the door behind her, and I’m left alone with my thoughts.
I run my fingers through my hair, trying to quell the whirlwind of emotions inside me. The way her body fits against mine when I hold her, the feel of her breath on my skin—temptations I shouldn’t entertain, but can’t escape.
“Ready?” Harper’s voice calls from behind me, pulling me back into the present.
