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“They’re yours until they’re not, right?”
There’s a blooming in my chest. A warmth right in the centre at the thought of these girls being mine and a crazy thought comes out of my mouth before I can process properly in my head. “What if I ask them to stay with me? Permanently?”
The shock I’m expecting from Stuart isn’t there when I look up. Instead a gentle smile and if I’m not mistaken, watery eyes. “I think that would be a wonderful thing, Anni.”
“It’s stupid,” I argue with my own idea. “My life isn’t suitable for children.”
He takes a deep breath looking off to the side as he contemplates his next words. “You know, there are people out there who have children and have no love for them. People who do everything right, stop working to look after their offspring, buy all the most expensive toys, teach them their version ofmorality and right and wrong. But in the end their child is just another trophy to be put in a case, another excuse to show off, to prove to the world they’re better than everyone else. There are people who have no money, no place to call home, they have children and can barely provide for them.
I don’t think your life is any better or worse than the millions of households having children each year. If you want them in your life because you can provide them with things beyond material possessions, you’re doing a better job than a lot of people out there. The fact that you're aware they need more and are worried about being able to provide it just proves you’re the right person for the job.”
I smile at that. “Diamond said something along those lines.”
“She’s a very wise woman.”
“She is.”
“If you want this Anni, I love it for you. I love it for them. And you know I will help in any way I can.”
I nod, unable to say anything over the emotions I’m trying to tamper down.
“Please tell me you can make use of me today,” he says once he’s composed himself.
“I have a restaurant owner in the heart of the city who hasn’t paid his taxes in two months, want to stretch out and throw your weight around?” I smirk at him.
His grin turns devilish. “It would be my pleasure, boss.”
We stride along the hall to the exit of the club and Harvey spots us, coming over to greet Stuart with a handshake.
“How’s it going? Your wife is well?” he asks with genuine concern.
“Never better, she kicked me out so she can host book club with her friends.” Stuart laughs and Harvey chuckles along with him before looking at me and letting his smile fade. I hate thathe’s treating me differently. I wanted him to realise what an obnoxious arsehole he was being, I didn’t want this.
“Stuart is accompanying me to La Delice, you can head back to the house.” I say coolly and then correct myself. “Or home, I don’t need you this evening.”
I don’t miss the flash of disappointment in his eyes, but he nods and pats Stuart on the arm. “Good to see you.” Then he leaves.
Stuart looks at me with raised brows and whistles. “Wow, that was awkward.”
“Shut up.”
27
ANNIKA
Stuart waits in his car as I head into the house and only drives away when the door is closed and the security at the door gives him the salute. I know he’s eager to get home to Lorraine and as much as I feel bad for taking him away from her for longer than we originally planned today, it felt good to have a break from Javier. My brain doesn’t function around that man. As soon as I’m through the door, I’m assaulted by music blaring further into the house. An onslaught of drums and fanfare that makes me feel like a carnival procession is about to parade down my hallway.
I follow my ears to the kitchen where all my senses are suddenly under attack. The smell of coconut is strong, and every surface seems to have a dusting of powder over the top. Mabel and Keely are shrieking and giggling as Harvey spins them around, encouraging them to dance to the music playing so loud it’s practically cracking out of whatever speakers he’s using.
“What the hell is going on?” I observe the scene with intrigue and horror. There is mess everywhere I look. Harvey has a smudge of white powder on his cheek and the girls are covered in some sort of white batter.
“Oh, hey!” Harvey looks up at me with a wide smile, eyes twinkling in the warm spotlights. “Come join us.”
“Yes!” Keely jumps up squealing. “Anni, dance with us!”
“Uh, no. I don’t dance.” I enter the kitchen fully and try really hard not to let the disgust show on my face. I’ve never seen so much mess. What is this powder? I’m pretty sure Harvey wouldn’t do drugs…or have them near children.
“Not good enough,” the man in question says, taking my hand in his and pulling me close. With one hand enveloping mine and the other on my back, in a respectable position, he leads me around the kitchen swaying his hips to the beat and keeping me close. I’m stiff and uncomfortable in his arms. I didn’t lie. I really don’t dance. But there’s something about Javier’s body heat on mine and the smell of coconut and his zesty aftershave that makes me relax against him, allowing his lead to guide me around without falling over. The awkwardness form earlier seems to have dissipated and I can’t help the small smile that plays on my lips.
