Page 98 of Biker Orc Baby Daddy
"That's confidence." Colum leans against the counter. Expression shifting. "I get it. You're scared. New territory. Highstakes. But Cecie. Gunther. You're doing this anyway. Might as well do it on your terms."
Silence.
I look at Gunther. He looks at me.
Orry snuffles. Shifts. Sleeps on.
"We'd have to coordinate," I say slowly. "Make sure we're on the same page. No mixed messages."
"I can do that," Gunther says.
"And boundaries. Clear boundaries. We're co-parents. Not. Not a couple. Not yet."
"Agreed."
"We don't owe anyone details."
"Absolutely not."
"And if it gets weird. If people push too hard. We leave."
"Deal."
Colum claps. "Wonderful. I'll put you down. Prime corner spot. Lots of foot traffic. Bring your A-game."
"Colum—"
"Trust me. This is good for you." He heads for the door. Pauses. "Also. For what it's worth. I think you two are going to be great. You're already halfway there."
He leaves.
The door clicks shut.
I peer at the poster board.Poplar Springs Family Weekendin cheerful block letters. Cartoon families holding balloons.
"He just voluntold us," I say.
"Yep."
"We don't have to do it."
"We don't."
"But he's right. People will talk."
"They will."
"And this way we control it."
"Seems like."
I turn. Look at Gunther. At Orry asleep in his arms. At this fragile new thing we're building.
"Are you okay with this?" I ask.
"Are you?"
"I asked first."
