“You’re leaving me.”
“I must, but something else is on your mind.”
He stared directly at me with those hypnotic eyes—ones that could summon the truth if he wanted. But Atticus never used his gifts on me.
“How do you know anything’s wrong?”
“Because I know when my girl is vexed.” Atticus kissed me down to my soul. “You can tell me anything.”
Maybe now was the time to test that theory.
I adjusted my light-grey maternity nightgown.
As if sensing a serious conversation, he scooted back against the headboard.
I leaned on my left hand, unable to meet his gaze. “For lack of better words, Salem proposed. He’s sincere and wants to raise the baby.”
“What was your answer?”
“He left it as a standing offer. I haven’t given him an answer yet.”
“What makes his offer worth considering?”
I stroked my belly. “We’re both Shifters, and we wouldn’t face the same scrutiny from others. Plus he’s a healer.”
Atticus laced his fingers across his stomach. “He speaks the truth. If you’re concerned about what others think, you’ll have an easier life with another Shifter.”
“I wasted my life caring what others think, but none of those people cared about me. I’m embarrassed to admit I’ve considered his offer.”
Atticus scooted forward. “And?”
My nerves took hold, and the baby kicked as if responding. When I moved my lips to speak, tears welled in my eyes.
“He makes a good argument, but I love you, Atticus. And I can’t explain it. I just feel this overwhelming?—”
Never did I think saying the words aloud would consume me with emotion.
He cupped my face in his hands and kissed my lips reverently as tears spilled down my cheeks.
“I do. I really love you,” I said through sniffles. “You’re the one I want to be with for the rest of my life.”
Then he embraced me and kissed the crook of my neck. “I’ve waited so long to find you.”
My heart swelled.
“You don’t hate me for considering his offer?”
He drew back. “I’d worry more if you made an impulsive choice. It’s true—Salem can offer you things I can’t.” Atticus placed his hand over my chest. “But what Icanoffer you is my love, my loyalty, and undying affection. For some women, that’s not enough.”
“What about honesty and respect? I need a man who sees me as his equal, not a statue to decorate his life. I can’t be with someone controlling or who’s dismissive of my wants.”
Atticus bowed his head. “As my lady commands.” He glanced up, a smile touching his lips. “I’m obviously not what you always dreamed of, but I’ll love you the way you deserve to be loved. And…” A tear glimmered in his dark eyes. Atticus cradled my belly in his hands. “I’ll be the father you always wanted for your child—the father I never got to be.”
I put my hands on top of his and felt the union of us becoming a family.
“Lie down.” He patted the spot next to me and scooted back. “Time for your nightly belly rub.”
I chuckled and reclined on my back, my feet touching the headboard. “The way you tease.”
