Page 104 of Best Kept Secret

“It means you have a lot to make up for, and it’s probably going to take a while.”

“I have the time. Hell, I’ll make it up to you forever if you’ll let me.”

She cocked her head to the side, her eyes sparkling. “What’s in it for me?”

He moved a little closer, but he kept his hands to himself. “A groveling boyfriend and an adorable baby girl?”

She laughed, and the sound filled the air and the empty spaces in his heart. “I love that little girl.”

“I know you do, and she’s going to love you too, if she doesn’t already.”

“That’s only because I buy her cute clothes and stuffed animals.”

He shook his head. “No. It’s because of the wonderful person you are.”

“Aw. I think you’re going to be pretty good at this groveling thing.”

He chuckled. “I mean it, Kels.”

“I know,” she said softly.

Then she reached over and picked up his hand, and a wave of relief swept over him.

“I missed you,” he said, his voice thick with emotion.

“I missed you too, and your adorable little girl.”

“There’s something else you should know,” he said, suddenly remembering.

“Uh-oh.”

“No more children. I promise.”

She laughed.

“Since I had some extra time on my hands this past week, I’ve been doing a little house hunting.”

Her eyes went wide. “Already?”

“Um-hmm, and I think I found the one.”

“Really? That’s great.”

Her expression didn’t match her words, though. Did she think he was abandoning her? He rushed to clear up that notion.

“I told the real estate agent I wanted someone else to look at the house before I made an offer.”

“Sonia?”

He shook his head.

“Your family.”

He shook it again and smiled at her.

“Me?”

“Yes.”