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“If Maddie’s parents influenced her decision to leave Lola, why would you want them to spend time with her?” It doesn’t make sense.
“It’s not that simple,” he states with deep-rooted frustration. “Her parents never explicitly suggested that Maddie leave us; they simply listened and acknowledged how she felt about the situation. They were just as shocked as I was when she left.” He rakes his fingers through his hair. “As a parent, I can appreciate where they were coming from. They called shortly after and expressed an interest in spending time with Lola whenever they came into town.”
“But aren’t they still in touch with Maddie?” I ask with apprehension. “Aren’t you worried about what they say to Lola when you’re not around?” I could be overreacting, but the idea of anyone making that little girl feel unwanted or undervalued concerns me.
“They’ve agreed not to discuss Maddie with her. If, in the future, Maddie expresses a desire to reconnect with Lola, her parents will tell me, and we’ll discuss the next steps. But I don’t anticipate that happening anytime soon.”
“Does Lola ever ask about Maddie?”
He shakes his head. “No, not often.”
“Don’t you think she’ll ask more questions as she gets older?”
Like how I’m doing now.
“Probably, but I’ll address it when the time comes.” He heaves a sigh. “Marlow, I appreciate your concern, but I’m doing my best, given the circumstances. You might disagree, but I want Lola to have a normal childhood, including having relationships with both sets of her grandparents. It doesn’t matter if it’s challenging for me; it’s what’s best for her.”
I nervously tuck my hair behind my ear. “You’re right. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you think I was questioning your choices. You’re an amazing father, and I know Lola will appreciate you giving her the chance to have a relationship with her grandparents as she gets older.” I give him a tentative smile. “I get overprotective of the people I care about and should have expressed my concerns differently.”
I often struggle with reading social cues. I get so caught up in my own emotions that I miss how others interrupt my words or actions. This often results in me unintentionally saying or doing the wrong thing.
“Hey.” Dylan clasps my hands in his. “I’m not upset,” he reassures me. “I’m just not used to explaining my decisions regarding Lola to anyone, but I value your concern. The fact you care so much means the world, and we’re lucky to have you.”
“We, huh?”
“Yeah, Lola isn’t the only one grateful you’re in our lives.” He leans over to press a kiss against my lips. “You know, one advantage of having her spend time with her grandparents is that we have a few hours to ourselves.”
“Is that so?” I smirk. “Whatever will we do?”
“I have a few ideas,” he says with a mischievous grin.
26
DYLAN
MARLOW SHRIEKS WHEN I SLING her over my shoulder and carry her upstairs.
When we get to her bedroom, I lock the door behind us. Aside from Waffles, there’s no one around to interrupt us, but it’s a force of habit.
“Dylan Stafford, what has gotten into you?” she cries out.
She has. Marlow Taylor has become a fixture in my life, and I never want her to leave.
I always prioritize rational thinking, not my emotional impulses, but being with her has given me a fresh perspective. She’s teaching me to find joy in the little things and how to live in the present. Her love for Lola is tangible, and it’s a turn-on that she’s as dedicated to my kid as I am.
On any other night when Lola is with her grandparents, I’d be reviewing spreadsheets or preparing financial reports for work—not tonight.
I stride across Marlow’s room, stepping around clothes scattered on the floor. The comforter is gathered at the foot of the bed, and I toss it onto the chair in the corner.
I lower Marlow to a standing position by the bed, and she holds onto my elbows as she finds her balance. She’s sexy as fuck in her skintight coral yoga pants, but I can’t do what I want to when she’s dressed.
“I need to get you out of these clothes, sunshine.”
“What are you waiting for?” she urges.
“You better watch that mouth of yours, considering I’m in charge of your pleasure tonight,” I caution her with a sly grin. “Now be a good girl and lift your arms.”
She gives me a curious glance but complies.
