 
# Royal Company

### Company Men, Bool #1

## Crystal Perkins

### Contents

Royal Company

About Royal Company

Books by Crystal Perkins

The Griffin Brothers series

Corrigan & Co. series

Society Girls

Other books

Praise for Books by Crystal Perkins

Things to Know

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Epilogue

Untitled

Acknowledgments

About the Author

# Royal Company

#1 of Company Men

**By Crystal Perkins**
Copyright © 2017 by Crystal Perkins

Cover Design by Helen Williams

www.allbookedout.com

All trademarks are owned by their respective companies and are denoted by the use of proper capitalization of the company and/or brand. All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book. This contemporary erotic romance is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners. This ebook is licensed for your personal use only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with, especially if you enjoy sexy, emotional, romance novels with alpha males. If you are reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return it and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author's work.

# About Royal Company

**R oyal friend. Abandoned brother. Aspiring architect.**

All Noah has ever wanted is to stand out on his own, and shed the stigma of being a "royal hanger-on". He doesn't care about royal titles, or money, and he's tired of people only using him for who he knows. Love isn't an option for him, until the woman he walked away from comes barreling back into his life.

**No last names. No personal information. No falling in love.**

Jyn agreed to a monthly tryst with Noah, until she wanted more...and he didn't. Thinking she'll never see him again, she's gone back to the life she chose, and is focused on what the future's going to bring. When he shows up, revealing his connection to those around her, and demanding answers, she opens her heart and gives him a second chance to prove he can be the man she needs in her life.

**Old secrets. Old fears. New life.**

As Noah and Jyn navigate their new relationship, his old fears and her old secrets threaten everything they've created together. He's good at building, and she's good at protecting, but can they trust each other enough to let love guide them to a fairytale ending?

# Books by Crystal Perkins
# The Griffin Brothers series

Gaming For Love (The Griffin Brothers #1)

Building Our Love (The Griffin Brothers #2)

Creating A Love (The Griffin Brothers #3)

Learning To Love (The Griffin Brothers #4)

Designing The Love (The Griffin Brothers #5)

Working On Love (The Griffin Brothers #6)

Keeping Their Love (The Griffin Brothers #7)

# Corrigan & Co. series

Fielding Her SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #1)

Devouring the SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #2)

Rocking a SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #3)

Lessons in SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #4)

Uncovering His SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #5)

Training the SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #6)

Inheriting a SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #7)

Tending Their SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #8)

Playing in SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #9)

Loving My SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #10)

Society Weddings (a Corrigan & Co. novella)

# Society Girls

Society Girls: Sierra (Society Girls, #1)

Society Girls: Neveah (Society Girls, #2)

Society Girls: Matisse (Society Girls, #3)

Society Girls: Waverly (Society Girls, #4)

Society Girls: Rhieve (Society Girls, #5)

Society Girls: Jenysis (Society Girls, #6)

Society Girls: Harlow (Society Girls, #7)

Society Girls: Camari (Society Girls, #8)

Society Girls: Kalila (Society Girls, #9)

Society Girls: Rose (Society Girls, #10)

# Other books

A Kiss is Just a Kiss

Activate

Never Fear-Phobias Horror Anthology

(Chronophobia short story)

Never Fear-Christmas Terrors Anthology

(Silent Fright short story)

Romantic Times Anthology, Vol. 3

(Gary and Maggie Griffin short story)

Never Fear-The Tarot Anthology

# Praise for Books by Crystal Perkins

"People should be free to love whoever their heart leads them, too. And this author did a great job of presenting a passionate love between 2 people who are seen as different from each other as dictated by society, but this difference wasn't a part of the love they share. Ms. Perkins did an admirable job of dealing with the issue (and other issues) as a non issue, if that makes sense." -DianeM, Amazon Reviewer, _Creating A Love_

"I love this series!!!!!! Crystal has the amazing ability to bring her characters to life. I laugh with them, I hurt with them, I smile with them, and I cry with them." -Jessica, Amazon reviewer, _The Griffin Brothers series_

"I love how Crystal makes the characters feel like real people." -Tami, Amazon Reviewer, _Learning To Love_

"This is a lovely romance story that has a sexy sizzle to it but it's funny as well as it is somewhat edgy. I like that the hero has money but it's not the focal point in this story. I love that the heroine has problems but they are not so insurmountable that they take over the story. This is good old-fashioned romance done with a modern day twist. Well Done." -Kindle Customer, Amazon Reviewer, _Gaming For Love_

"I found this book on Amazon yesterday and loved the cover. I read the synopsis and knew I had to get it. So I purchased it and started to read it right away. Oh my, I could not put the book down. I got so wrapped up in the story I was afraid to put my Kindle down or I would miss a part." -Amazon Customer, _Gaming For Love_

"I thought this was a fantastic start to a series, and kind of first book of a series that makes you want to rush out and buy each additional book in the series. The premise of a strong group of women working together to help other women in need was pretty awesome. I loved how C0rrigan & Co was a secret covert company along the same lines as the underground railroad but it saved women from sticky situations or abusive relationships." -Aubrey, Romancing the Book blog, _Fielding Her SECRET_

"I had so many different emotions while reading. I was rooting people, wanting kick people, wanting to rip some peoples clothes off, laughing while reading, gasping out loud. Seriously, I read this like a crazy person. So much happened that I was not mentally prepared for. There were so many shockers while reading this I could not even think about putting the book down." -Sabrina, Amazon Reviewer, _Devouring the SECRET_

"Love this book the suspense and sex is EPIC." -Teresa Jensen, Amazon Reviewer, _Rocking a SECRET_

_"_ Perkins breathes life into their characters and has the reader feeling their agony, pain, and even their love for one-another. I enjoy reading her books and learning more and more about each of the people that make up this secretive group." -Dayreader Reviews, _Corrigan & Co. series_

"In the end I am somehow proud of you Crystal Perkins. How you portrayed Ellie and her and Aiden love. I know I have no right to be, and it's really not my place to say but I am proud I read it and I recommend it to all women so they can see how strong We can be." -Marta Bukowska, Goodreads Reviewer, _Tending Their SECRET_

"The story flowed well and kept my attention throughout. There was one part I was totally not expecting to happen. I love when that happens." -Lisa Dess, Girls With Books blog, _Training Her SECRET_

"Wow this story! There are some stories and characters that leave you speechless, breathless and at times slightly broken, and Loving my SECRET Matt & Reina's story is definitely one of them!" -Vicki Plant, Goodreads Reviewer, _Loving My SECRET_

"I laughed I cried and there many times that I wanted to throw my device." -Mallory, Goodreads Reviewer, _Loving My SECRET_

"Perkins gives the reader a quick peak into the Weddings of the amazing ladies in the society. What a fun roller coaster ride it was." -Taz Lozada, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Weddings_

"Totally loved this book as I did with all of crystals book previous to this with their well written gripping story lines brilliant characters a must read really can't wait for the next in series." – Sassylady33, Amazon Reviewer, _Society Girls: Sierra_

"It is banter central, lol and completely full with characters who you actually get to know and enjoy spending time with." – All Booked Out, _A Kiss is Just a Kiss_

"Good book and a really powerful message." Petrina, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Girls: Jenysis_

"If you're looking for a great book, this is the one." Renee, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Girls: Kalila_

# Things to Know

If you haven't read _Inheriting a SECRET,_ or any of the Corrigan & Co. books, you can still read this book. I'm listing some info below that will be helpful to you!

The Society: A secret group of female spies, operating out of the Corrigan & Co. Foundation, and run by Reina Corrigan. The male characters in Company Men are all brothers, or friends, of the spies. Most of the women will not know of their existence.

Corrigan & Co.: Matt Corrigan runs this public side of the company. One of the most powerful men in the world, he's ruthless in business, and would do anything to protect his wife, and their friends.

Noah: His family of con artists and cat burglars were also close friends of the royal family of Cyndryann. His father was killed trying to help the King, and his sister took over and honored the vow their father had made. Noah was left with the royal family, and his mother was sent into hiding. He grew up with Prince Brayden, and Princess Jenysis. They think of him as their brother, although he is not royal. When Brayden was set to become King, it was revealed that Darcy (a member of the Society) had the jewels he needed to take his rightful place. He fell in love with Darcy, and gave up his kingdom for her. Jenysis (also now a member of the Society) father, Steve, is now King, and she is married to pop star, Wayne (their book is _Society Girls: Jenysis_ ).

Confused? You can always message or email me if you need clarification on something!
**_For Heather, Jamie, and Sandy:_**

**_You are the absolute BEST, and I'm so glad we're friends!_**

# Prologue

_T wo years ago_

Noah

I've grown up with the royal family of Cyndryann, but I'm not a royal. There's a distinction there that's very important, although it's ignored by the people who try and use me for my connection to them. I could be a royal—a duke, an earl, maybe even a lord—but I don't want that. My former guardian, Steve, who is King of the tiny island, has offered me a title more than once, but I've always turned it down.

I know exactly who I am, and it's far from royal. My parents were con artists, and cat burglars. It was only after my father died doing a favor for the former King, my best friend Brayden's father, that I was taken to live at the castle. My sister, Darcy, took on the vow my father had promised, and almost got killed too. She's now a spy, and married to Brayden, making her a princess, which I guess is a little ironic.

But, I'm just me. Noah. Friend of the monarchy, brother to a super-spy, and a pretty good architect. I thought that was enough for the woman I was dating back home, until I found her in bed with a real royal, and understood I was just a pawn in yet another game. She wanted entrance to the world I lived on the outskirts of, and I gave it to her. And then she gave it up to him.

Now, I'm doing some freelance work for Ryan Griffin, one of the best architects in the world. He's asked me to check out real estate in Europe for him, and while it's not exactly what I hoped to be doing, it gets my foot in the door. Actually, Darcy got my foot there because she's friends with him, but I'm working to open the door all the way, and walk on in.

First stop, Amsterdam. I've been here many times, but never in a work capacity. I'll mostly be looking at properties outside the city, but there are a few canal properties of interest To Ryan as well. At the moment, I just need to check into my hotel, and settle in.

"Welcome to Amsterdam," the woman at the front desk tells me.

"Thanks."

"Here is your key. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

I nod, and walk down the hall to the second tower of the hotel. I chose this place because of the cool art I saw on the website, and also because it's in a residential area of the city. In the past, I've stayed closer to the "action", but I'm not here for anything but work this time, and I wanted something quieter.

Once I'm upstairs, I find my room, and insert the key. The door opens, and a woman screams. I look up, and take in the vision before me. There's lots of skin, and lace. Sexy black lace.

"What are you doing?"

I force my eyes to pass the mouth-watering curves, and find her face. She's of Asian descent, with sculpted cheekbones, a lush mouth, and steely blue eyes. I have to force myself to speak, because she's pretty much rendered me speechless.

"This is my room."

"No, it's mine."

"Then why did my room key open the door?"

"I-I don't know."

"Do you want to put some clothes on, and we can go downstairs to see what's up?"

"I suppose we should."

"I'll wait outside."

"Thank you."

I close the door, and lean against the wall next to it, trying to catch my breath. I've seen—and dated—some of the most beautiful women in the world, but the one in that room eclipses them all. It's not just that she's gorgeous, or has a body that makes me want to sin; it's the way she looked at me. She may have initially screamed, but she wasn't afraid once I was standing in front of her. She was angry, and fierce. Sexy as fucking hell in that lace, but ready to take me down. And damn if I don't want to be taken down by her.

"Let's go," she says, walking past me.

I follow along like the little puppy dog I feel like right now, chasing after the treat I want more than anything. She stands as far away from me as possible on the elevator, and refuses to make eye contact. I still eye fuck the hell out of her, because I can't help myself. Even in the jeans and t-shirt she threw on, she's still fucking brilliant.

"They might comp your room for the mistake," I tell her, because I have to say something.

"I don't need my room comped."

The doors mercifully open, and we walk to the desk. Everything is straightened out, and we both accept one night's free room, because there's no sense in turning it down. As we walk back to the elevators, I reach out to touch her forearm.

"Have dinner with me?"

"No."

"You do realize this isn't my fault, right?"

"Yes."

"So why won't you go to dinner with me?"

"That accent gets you what you want, doesn't it?'

"My accent? No."

"Why do you want to go to dinner with me?" she asks, crossing her arms over those magnificent tits of hers.

"You're gorgeous, sexy, and just a little scary," I admit.

She jerks like she's been shocked. "I didn't expect you to be honest."

"That's one thing you can always expect from me."

"Just dinner."

She says it, but I see the desire in her eyes. "I'm Noah," I tell her, holding out my hand.

"Jen."

_O ne year ago_

"Yes. Just like that, Noah," Jen says, digging her nails into my shoulder.

We've been meeting every month for the last year, and still know nothing about each other, except our first names. We pick a city, and a hotel, and then we meet in the bar. It's the best two days of my month.

"How do you feel better every time?" I ask, holding tight to her hips as I thrust up into her.

"I don't know," she says, a sad note in her voice, making me feel like she's holding something back.

Right now isn't the time to ask, and honestly, I'll have to stop myself from asking her later. Our silent agreement is that this is just fun. We hold hands when we walk through the cities, and we buy each other little gifts, but we don't talk about our lives. For all I know, she could have a bloke back home, and while the thought makes me want to kill someone, I know it's not my business. I get one weekend a month, and that has to be enough.

_S ix months ago_

"Are you Noah?" the bartender in my London hotel asks me.

"Yes."

"I have a note for you."

This is different. It must be from Jen, but I don't understand why she's writing to me, instead of sitting next to me at the bar. Maybe she wants to add some play to our game. At least that's what I think, until I open the envelope.

_Noah,_

_I wanted to say this to your face, but I can't. I can't speak the words I need to say, and watch you reject me. I'm sorry. So very sorry, but I can't do this anymore._

_We agreed to no strings, no last names, and no feelings. But, I have feelings. So many feelings, Noah. I've fought them for over a year, but I can't hide from them any longer. I love you. I am so in love with you. I ache when we're apart, and I want to cry when I see you, because I don't know if you feel the same way. Or, if you feel anything at all. We built these walls, but I want to break them down._

_If you want to give me—us—a chance, I'll be in room 1017. If you don't want more than sex, this is the end for us. I love you too much to be able to pretend any longer._

_Jyn_

Jyn? I always thought her name was Jen. I didn't even know her fucking name, and now she's giving me an ultimatum. Does she know who I really am? I don't want to believe she's been playing me, but what if she was?

Feelings? I have lots of feelings. If I'm being honest with myself, I've been in love with her since I saw her in that Amsterdam hotel room. I just don't know if I can go all in with a woman again. It's been almost two years since I last let one all the way in, and while I want Jyn more than my next breath, my need to protect myself is even stronger.

I can't do this. I finish my drink, tell the front desk my plans have changed, and walk out of the hotel into the cold London night. My heart is shattering, but I can still walk away, and that's what I have to do.

# 1

Noah

I'm finally here in Las Vegas. It took two years of working in Europe before Ryan was willing to trust me with designing things, but it's paid off. I'm here.

Well, right now I'm at the Corrigan & Co. building, but it's work related. Kind of. We're going to be building a new building for Matt Corrigan, but first there's a baby shower we have to attend. I mean, I don't really _have_ to be here, but Ryan invited me, and it gives me a chance to see my sister, and friends, so why not? I saw them all at a gala a couple months ago, when I escorted their friend, Harlow, but I've been too busy getting settled to really visit with them.

Once I'm checked in at the front desk, and cleared to the employee breakroom, I take the elevator up. There's a huge crowd of people in the large room, and as I look for Ryan, Darcy, Brayden, or Jenysis, I'm instead faced with someone else.

"Jyn," I say, staring wide-eyed at my former lover.

"Noah," she replies, the blood draining from her face.

I look down at her obviously pregnant body, and ask the only question I need the answer to right now. "Is that mine?"

"Is what yours?" my sister asks, coming to stand next to me.

"I believe he's referring to _my_ baby as 'that'. But yes, Noah, you are the biological father."

"Son of a bitch." The words are out before I can stop them, and I realize how bad they sound the minute they leave my mouth.

She shrugs, looking like she wants to kill me right now. "Might be a daughter of a bitch."

"I didn't mean it like that. I-I'm just a little freaked out."

"How are you the father, Noah?" Darcy asks me, holding her stomach, and looking like she might pass out.

"Um, the normal way."

She turns to Jyn, an accusing look in her eyes. "You said you'd been in a casual relationship with father. You said you didn't know how to reach him."

"Yes. I don't even know why he's here now, or why you're so upset."

"You expect me to believe you had no idea he was my brother?"

Jyn rears back like she's been slapped. "I didn't. You're her brother?"

"Yes. You really didn't know? This isn't some ploy to have a royal baby?"

"Royal? You're a royal?"

"No, but I'm part of the royal court."

"Oh. Okay."

"It's not okay, Jyn. None of this is okay."

"You walked away from me, Noah. There was no way for me to contact you, and you know it."

"I don't like ultimatums."

"I had no choice but to give you the one I did. I wouldn't have survived any longer."

"Did you know?"

"I was late, but I wasn't sure."

"You should've made sure before you made me choose to leave."

"I was hoping you'd choose to stay."

"I couldn't."

"That was your choice to make."

"I don't know what to do now. What am I supposed to do?"

"Right now, you're going to leave," Matt Corrigan says, standing next to Jyn.

"Matteo," his wife, Reina, says, coming to stand next to Darcy.

"You're in charge of the Foundation, Rei, but C&C is mine. Jyn is supposed to be having fun with her friends, and she won't do that while Noah's here."

"You can't kick my brother out, Matt," Darcy tells him, her eyes on fire.

"Yes, I can."

"It's okay, Darce," I tell her, and mean it.

I need to get away from here, and figure out what I'm going to do. I walked in here with a new job, and now I'm walking out as a father-to-be. It's too much. Just seeing Jyn would be too much, but the baby is more than I can handle right now...or maybe ever.

Jyn

I let Matt lead me over to a chair, and take the water Aiden hands me. Darcy followed us, but Nate pulled her away before she could interrogate me any further. These guys are my tribe. My bosses, some of the sexiest men alive, and everything someone could want in a friend. Darcy is one of their best friends too, yet they're taking care of me right now, and I'm so grateful, I start to cry.

"Deep breaths, Jyny," Jake tells me, rubbing my back.

"Thank you."

"Noah's your monthly booty call, huh?" Aiden asks with a smirk.

"He was, until he wasn't."

"You never told us exactly what happened," Matt reminds me.

"We agreed it was just sex, and then I fell in love with him. He didn't love me back. Classic story, right?"

"Jyn?"

I turn to see Jenysis standing behind me. "Hi."

"Noah is like a brother to me."

"I didn't know."

"I believe you."

"I'm glad someone does."

"Darcy's extra protective of him because of their past, but she'll come around."

"I'll have to take your word for it since I don't know anything about their past. I honestly only knew his first name, and that he was sweet, sexy, funny, and gorgeous."

"Theirs isn't my story to tell you, but just know he's been hurt by almost every woman he's ever had in his life. It doesn't excuse any bad behavior he may have exhibited with you, but it is what it is."

"He never behaved badly with me. It's not his fault he doesn't love me."

"He'll do right by the baby, no matter what else happens."

"I don't need anything from him, but I won't keep him from his child."

"Thank you."

She realizes how awkward this is becoming, so she gives me a small smile and walks away. I lean my head back, and wish for things to be different. I never planned to see Noah again, and now he's here, and everything I tried to keep hidden is coming out. The lies I told myself about being over him, the hurt of him leaving, and the love I can't stop feeling for him.

"We're here for you," Nate says, squeezing my shoulder.

"I don't want to cause problems for you guys."

"You're not causing any problems," Reina says, coming over to sit next to me. "I just wish you'd had us try to track Noah down."

"I wasn't going to chase after a man who didn't want more than sex from me."

"He has a right to see his child."

"I know. We'll work something out."

"He's a good guy."

"I never said he wasn't. I don't know why everyone keeps acting like I said that!"

It's true. When anyone asked about the father of my baby, I said it was casual and I didn't know how to reach him. I never talked about how he shredded my heart, because it wasn't his fault. I agreed to nearly anonymous sex, and that's what I got. It's on me that I wanted more.

Reina ignores my mini rant, because that's just who she is—a woman who looks past a crisis to the solution she can provide. "Please let me know if there's anything you need."

"I will."

I stand up, ready to greet my guests, only to see everyone gone. "They left?"

"I think Reina cleared everyone out," Matt says, looking annoyed.

"Oh."

"We can do this again," Aiden offers.

My tears start, and I wipe them away as fast as I can. "I don't usually care about stuff like this, but I was looking forward to the shower. The stupid games, the presents, the cake."

"We'll play the games with you," Jake says, and the other guys all nod, making me laugh.

"Just help me eat the cake?"

"You don't have to ask twice for that. Drago Sisters can make anyone go off their diet," Nate reminds me.

"Thank you. For everything," I tell them.

"Always, Jyn. You're one of us, and that means something," Matt tells me.

We cut into the beautiful baby buggy cake, and each eat a couple of servings before we get our fill. I don't open the gifts, because it doesn't seem right to do it without Noah being here. I don't know when I'll be able to face him again, but I know I have to. Here's hoping he wants this baby, because while I may have put up a brave face earlier, I really want him to be happy about being my baby's daddy.

# 2

Noah

"I can't believe you're going to have a baby. _I_ was supposed to have one first," Darcy says, pacing back and forth around the guest apartment at the C&C building they all live in.

Matt's allowing me to use it while I look for a place of my own. Or at least he was. I honestly don't know what's going to happen now.

"It's not like I planned it."

"Of course not. I try for months, and can't get pregnant, but you just have it happen."

"Wait, what?"

"Never mind."

"Oh no you don't," I tell her, grabbing her arm, and pulling her down to sit next to me on the couch.

"Bray and I have been trying to have a baby, but it's not happening. Kenny doesn't see anything wrong, but obviously, something's not right."

"Shit, Darce. I didn't know."

"We haven't told anyone but Kenny."

"Are you okay? I mean, of course you're not, but, how are you?"

She wipes the tears that are now falling down her cheeks. "I didn't think I wanted a baby, but then my friends started having them, and I realized I _did_ want one."

"So, you keep trying."

"Bray wants us to just adopt. He says it's too much stress for me, but I know he's lying. He needs an heir."

"Darce, he's not in line for the throne any longer. You know that."

"Doesn't mean an heir isn't on his mind."

"I'm pretty sure _you're_ what's on his mind."

"I want to believe that, but I feel like I lied to him, even though I didn't know I couldn't get pregnant."

"I know him better than almost anyone else, and I can tell you, he loves you more than his life. If he says he's okay with adoption, then he means it."

"My mother-in-law will have a fit."

"Yes," I tell her honestly.

"She still hasn't ever accepted me."

"Which no one else cares about. Steve is the King, and he loves you. Since Bray gave up the crown, his mom is a member of the court like me, but she holds no power."

"Which, again, is my fault."

"Love isn't a fault, sis."

"Do you love Jyn?"

"Yes."

It's the truth. One I've denied to myself for months, but I know it's true. I knew it when I was reading that note, but I refused to believe it. Instead, I chose to believe she knew who I was, and was trying to angle her way into my life. I was so wrong, about so many things.

"What are you going to do?"

"Well, I guess I should finally tell her, and you know, apologize for not admitting it earlier."

"That's a start."

"Does she live here, too?"

"Yes. She's part of the inner circle of Security, with the guys, so she knows everything."

"I'm surprised Reina didn't recruit her."

"She tried, but Jyn is loyal to Matt, and she said she only wanted to travel for pleasure."

The travel we did together was definitely pleasurable. Not just in bed, but at the dinners we shared, and the sightseeing we did. Sometimes, I've woken up after dreaming of her, only to wonder if all of it was just that, a dream. It was so good, it's hard to believe it was real.

"Are you scared?"

"Of being a dad? Hell, yeah. I'm just starting the career I wanted, and I don't know how much time I'll have to be a good dad."

"Ryan will give you whatever time you need."

"Yeah, he pulled me aside when I was leaving and told me that, but I don't know if I can take that time. I don't want to look weak."

"You're going to have to decide what's more important," she says, and I know what she wants me to choose.

"I just don't know if I can make the right choice. I've wanted this career for so long."

"You said you love Jyn."

"I do."

"She has a career, too."

"You don't think she'll want to give it up?"

"No. She's already reserved a spot at the C&C nursery. Besides, would you really want her to give up her career?"

"Honestly, I think I would."

"Noah!"

"I know, I know. I've got a kick-ass sister, and my female best friend is also a spy, but I like thinking about her staying home to take care of the baby, and our home. Having dinner ready when I walk in the door."

"Who are you, and what have you done with my feminist brother?"

"Like I said, I know this is out of left field. I've never thought this way before. With my baby growing inside her, I can't seem to help myself."

"I'm going suggest you get your head out of your ass before you talk to Jyn, because if you tell her this, it's not going to go well."

"I'll consider it."

She shakes her head, then kisses me on the cheek before walking out the door. I'm mentally shaking my head at myself too, because all of this is weird. The fierce protectiveness I'm feeling about a woman I walked away from, and the need for her to stay home and just be here at my beck and call. It's crazy, and I know it's going to blow up in my face, but I can't stop the way I feel.

Jyn

I'm sitting outside by one of the pools, because the sound of the waterfall is calming. It's late at night, so there's no distraction, and no one asking me questions I just don't know the answers to. I love the people here, but they can definitely be overwhelming sometimes.

"Hi."

I look up to find Noah looking down at me with a sheepish grin on his face. "Hi."

"Can I sit?"

"Sure."

"I would've been here if I'd known."

"For the baby."

"For you, Jyn."

"Why?"

"Because I fell in love with you."

"You left me in London."

"I already said I don't like ultimatums."

"I couldn't go on the way we'd been, but I wasn't really issuing one. I never wanted to force you to feel a certain way."

"I was scared, because all the women I've ever cared about have left me, or betrayed me."

"I didn't want to do either."

"I know."

"I should've tried to find you, to at least tell you about the baby once I knew."

"I wish you would've."

"Where do we go from here?"

"Do you still love me?"

"Yes."

"Then we go into this together."

"Kenny said he can do another 3D sonogram tomorrow so you can see the baby if you want."

"Do you know if it's a boy, or a girl?"

"No. I didn't want to know. Do you want to know?"

"Yeah."

"Okay."

"You don't have to agree with me just because I didn't know, and you feel guilty. We can wait if that's what you want."

"How about we see if the baby wants us to know tomorrow. If we get a clear view, we'll know. If not, we wait."

"It's a plan."

"I have four and a half weeks."

"So, I have a little time to get used to this."

"A little, yes."

"You look beautiful, by the way. I don't think I've told you that."

"Thank you. I feel like a whale sometimes, but I love seeing my belly."

"Can I touch it?"

"Of course."

He reaches out, and places his hand on me. The baby is quiet right now, so he won't feel any movement, but I can tell it doesn't matter to him. As he moves his hand all around my stomach, I see the wonder in his eyes.

"Are you feeling okay?"

"I'm tired sometimes, but I didn't have morning sickness."

"Is there anything I can do for you?"

Can I ask? Am I that courageous? Apparently, I am. "Will you make love to me?"

He looks shocked, but then he smiles. That beautiful smile of his that makes me weak in the knees.

"Is it safe?"

"As long as we're not too rough, yes."

"I've missed you so much. All of you."

"I've missed you, too."

"Your place, or mine?"

"Mine."

He stands, holding out his hands to help me up. Before I know it, his mouth is on me. It's a soft, and short kiss, but it's more than I've had in months, and it makes me crave him even more.

We hold hands, but don't talk as I lead him into the elevator, and up to my apartment. There are still no words once we reach my bedroom. It's all touches and tastes.

Noah pulls my dress over my head, and proceeds to worship my body. He sets me on the bed, and starts with my feet, massaging them as he places kisses on my calves. His hands and mouth move slowly up my legs, making me squirm as my panties get drenched in my yearning for him.

He hooks his fingers in my very un-sexy underwear, pulling them down. I fight the urge to cover myself, because it's not easy to groom yourself when you can't see what you're doing, but he just chuckles.

"Did you try to do this on your own?"

"Yes."

"You missed a couple spots with your razor."

I cover my face, and groan. "I was afraid of that."

"It's so damn adorable," he tells me, removing my hands. "I love it."

"You're crazy."

"For you, yes."

He proves he likes what he sees by licking a path right through my curls. I want to hold his head there, but then he's kissing my belly. He kisses all over it, trying valiantly not miss even one spot. After, he runs his mouth over my ribs while undoing my bra.

He barely catches my breasts in his hands as they fall free. "Damn, they're big."

"I know."

"I'm going to fuck these later, after I make love to you."

"Please."

He takes a nipple in his mouth, making me arch my back. I am so close to coming, it's not even funny. I'd heard pregnancy can make a woman horny, and I've definitely felt it. With no one here to help me take care of the problem, I've done my best with my own fingers, but it wasn't enough.

After lavishing attention on both breasts, and devouring my throat, his lips find mine again. This time, it's not short—or sweet. He loves my mouth the way I know he's going to love my body; perfectly, and thoroughly. It's too much, and not enough at the same time.

"I need you inside of me."

"Your wish is my command," he tells me, moving away.

I hate the loss of him, but I love seeing him remove his sweater, and jeans. The hair on his chest shows a little more red than the subtle hint of the color visible in his dark hair. The happy trail from his belly button leads to even more red around his beautiful cock. It's thick, and long, and I love taking it inside of me. I lick my lips, thinking of how good it tastes, too.

Before I know it, he's on his back, pulling me over him. I slide down over his bare cock, relishing the feel of taking this man in once again. We both groan, because it feels perfect. Being with Noah always feels perfect.

I move slowly at first, but with my orgasm building, I have to speed up. He squeezes my breasts, running his fingers over my nipples. I love how full of him I am, and it doesn't take long before I'm coming hard. He follows after me, yelling out my name as he releases into me. I roll to my side, lying next to him as we both catch our breath.

"I will never get enough of that," I tell him honestly.

"Good, because I'm not going anywhere."

# 3

Noah

After a night spent loving Jyn, I've got a smile on my face when I enter the Griffin building the next morning. Life really can't get much better than this.

"Hi Noah," Chloe says when I walk towards Ryan's office.

"Hey, Chloe."

"I didn't tell you congratulations yesterday, and I'm not sure if I should say it now."

"You can say it."

"Oh, good, because I am so excited about the baby. Any baby, really, but when it's friends, it's even better."

"We can have another baby, Chlo," Ryan says, coming out of his office with a smirk on his face.

"Bite your tongue. Two is more than enough to handle."

"Your call."

"Thank you for acknowledging that."

"Always." He kisses her, before gesturing to his office. "Come on in, Noah."

I follow him, closing the door behind me. "I can't wait to get started."

"You did a great job in Europe, and I'm really happy to have you here. I meant what I said about time off if you need it, though. We're very generous with our family time."

"Thanks, but other than a little time once the baby's born, I don't expect to miss any work."

He lets out a hearty laugh. "None of us ever expect it, but kids are unpredictable. It's not a mark against you if you need the time."

"I appreciate it."

"Okay, now that we've got that out of the way, let's talk business. You know Matt hired us for a new building, and I'd like you to take lead on it. He prides himself of giving his employees the best experience possible, and with all his expansions, he needs something new."

"Just for him?"

"For Reina as well, although I'll be working on her spaces."

"I know about the Society, and what they do, so I'm happy to help."

"You'll have your hands full with the main building, but thanks for the offer."

I'm a little disappointed, because I would love to design some secret spy spaces, but designing Matt's domain will be fun too. And prestigious.

"I'll get to work right away."

"Great, let me show you your office. There are some women and men from the secretarial pool ready to be interviewed for your assistant, if you're up for it this week."

"Sure. Thanks again for all this, Matt."

"Thank me by doing the damn good job I know you're capable with."

"I will."

He takes me down the hall to a large office. It's not nearly as big as his, but it has windows overlooking the city, and more space than I know what to do with. Chloe comes in a little later to go over the designs for the space, because she _does_ know what to do. She asked for my input on what I'd like, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with. For now, the plain desk, comfortable chair, and view are more than enough.

I'm in the middle of drafting later in the day, when someone knocks on my door. "Come in."

"Hi. I'm here about the position."

The words are said in a very suggestive manner, making me look up. Before me is a beautiful blonde. She's dressed conservatively, but there's no denying her body is sexy as hell. Her smile is inviting, and if I wasn't in love with the mother of my child, I might be tempted.

"I didn't think the appointments started until Thursday morning."

"They don't, but if you like me, why talk to anyone else?"

"I like to have all information before making a decision, so I'll see you Thursday."

"Are you serious?"

"I am."

"Your loss."

I shake my head as she storms out. Seems I can't escape the women who want me for something. Then again, I'm happily with a woman I don't ever want to escape from, and she only wants me for me.

It's hours later before I decide I'm ready to stop. I save my work, turn off my light, and head down to my car. Today was a good day, and I can't wait to talk to Jyn about it.

Only, she's not home when I get there. I call her, but she doesn't answer. And that's when I remember—I was supposed to meet her at C&C an hour ago, for the sonogram. I'm screwed—and not in a good way—because I don't think she'll consider losing track of time a good excuse.

I rush back to my car, and call C&C, asking for the Society's doctor. He picks up almost immediately, and I hit him with that lame excuse, because it's all I have. "I am so sorry, Kenny. I got caught up in my work, and lost track of time."

"I'm not the person you need to apologize to," he says in that formal African accent of his, making me feel even worse.

"Is she still there?"

"Jyn is back at work. I believe she has a late shift today."

Yeah, she mentioned that to me this morning, but I appear to be forgetting everything I'm told. I chose work today, and now I'm realizing how hard this is all going to be. She's worth it, but I'm not sure she feels the same about me right now.

I head to her office as soon as I get through security, knocking on her door before I enter. "I'm sorry."

She looks up, and I see the hurt in her eyes. "If you don't really want to be a part of everything, you just need to tell me. It was embarrassing to be down there, waiting like some desperate woman, for her missing baby daddy."

"I do want to be a part of everything, but work is important to me, too. This is my big chance."

"I know how important this is to you, but our baby has to come first."

"I'm trying."

"You're going to have to do more than try, Noah. I'm sorry, but that's the way it is. We're talking about a child, who will be depending on us for everything."

"I missed a sonogram for God's sake, Jyn. It's not like I missed the birth."

Her face hardens, as I realize I've said the wrong thing. "I have a lot of work to do, so please close the door on your way out."

"We're not going to go downstairs for the sonogram?"

"No. It doesn't work that way. If you want to re-schedule, you can see what times Kenny has available, and I'll check my schedule."

Wow. "I'm sleeping in my own apartment tonight."

"That's probably for the best."

I don't slam her door, but I really want to. Yeah, I messed up, but she's not even giving me an inch. Not one fucking inch to work with, and it sucks.

Jyn

I haven't talked to Noah in two days. I know I was a little harsh with him, but this baby became my everything once I found out about it. To hear him say he forgot about the sonogram, because work is so important to him, was like a slap in my face. My baby deserves parents who put him or her first, and I won't settle for less from Noah.

There's a knock at my apartment door, and I open it to find Darcy standing on the other side. "Hi, Jyn. Can I talk to you for a minute?"

I want to say no, but I know that would just be postponing the inevitable. "Yes. Come in."

"I first want to apologize for acting a little crazy at your shower. I was really shocked, and a little hurt, but I shouldn't have behaved so badly."

"The shower turned out to not really be a shower, since everyone left, but thanks."

"I'm sorry about that," she says, and I can tell she means it. "Noah told me about missing the sonogram, and how you're not talking to him."

"I'm not going to apologize for being angry at him."

"Oh, I don't expect you to. I'd probably knee Brayden in the balls if he missed something like that."

"Yet you're here to stick up for Noah."

"No."

"No?"

"There was a time when I did everything I could to protect my brother, but he's an adult now, and responsible for the choices he makes. I'm here to make sure I can be part of the baby's life, even if things are rocky with Noah, and to see if you need help with anything."

"No matter what, you'll be my baby's aunt. I wouldn't keep you from the baby. Before I even knew Noah was your brother, I was prepared to accept everyone's help and support. So, please don't ever worry about that."

"Good. Thank you."

"I don't really need help with anything right now, although I guess I should open my shower presents soon."

"You haven't opened them?"

"No. I felt like I should do it with Noah, but now, I just don't know."

"I said I wasn't here for him, but I won't discourage you from giving him another chance."

"I want to, but I can't say I will. I need to think about whether I can let my baby be second to a job. I just don't think it's fair for a kid to grow up like that."

"I understand. Please call if you need anything."

"I will."

We hug, and she leaves me to my thoughts, and decisions. I honestly don't know what to do. I want my baby to know Noah, because everyone deserves to know their father, but at the same time, I don't want Noah to hurt our child.

I pick up the phone, and call the only person who's ever been able to give me the answers I need. "Hi, Aunt Mari," I tell her when she picks up the phone.

"How are you, sweet girl?"

"Big as a whale, and needing to come for a visit."

"Is it safe?"

"To fly? No. But, I was thinking of bringing you here, if you're up for it."

"Vegas? Of course. I was planning to come out once you have the baby, but I don't see why I couldn't do a weekend trip ahead of time."

"I know you're busy."

"Never too busy for you."

"I'll arrange for your tickets, and you can stay in one of the guest apartments here."

"I'm only agreeing to let you get my tickets because I know Matthew Corrigan pays you so well."

"He does," I agree.

"Do you want to tell me why you need me? I'm coming either way, but maybe I should be prepared."

She missed my shower, because of storms where I'm from, and I haven't told her anything about what happened, but I really need to her to know what's going on.

"The baby's father is in town."

"Noah's there?"

"Yes, and it turns out we're connected in some interesting ways. I'll tell you more when you get here."

"Am I going to have to punch him in the nuts?"

"Maybe."

"I'll bring my steel toe boots."

"I can't wait to see you."

"Just hang in there until I arrive."

"I will. Thanks."

"No thanks necessary. I love you, Jyn."

"I love you too, Aunt Mari."

I hang up the phone feeling better than I have in the last couple of days. Although my parents are alive, I was mostly raised by Mari. I love them all, and understand why my parents couldn't always be there, but she's who I always turn to first, and I need her right now.

I stare over at the pile of gifts once more, but decide they still need to wait to be opened. My heart keeps telling me to give Noah a chance to make things right, but my head isn't on board. Classic struggle.

# 4

Noah

"I'd ask how things are going, but I heard about what happened with Jyn," Brayden tells me as we wait for our food. We're having lunch away from C&C, because I'm not sure if I'm welcome there.

"I didn't mean to forget."

"Yet, you did."

"I was caught up in the designs for the new C&C building. It's a big deal."

"A bigger deal than having a baby?"

"I don't know."

"Damn, Noah. I don't even know what to say about that."

"Darcy told me you're having trouble getting pregnant, and I'm sorry about that. My situation is different, though; we didn't plan this."

"No, you didn't, but that doesn't mean you can ignore it. Unless you're planning to give up your rights, and walk away from your child."

"I don't think I could do that."

"Man, it's even worse than I thought. You shouldn't be having to 'think' about it at all."

"You should understand why I'm having trouble coming to terms with this. Of all the people in my life, you should get it."

"That your career means everything to you? Yeah, I get where you're coming from, because I know how hard it was for you to grow up with us. But, that was before you found out about the baby. No reason they can't both be equally important."

"I don't know how to give up on my dream."

"Did someone ask you to? Ryan has kids. Matt has a kid. Hell, lots of our friends have kids. None of them have given up their career dreams for their kids. There are sacrifices, but having a baby doesn't mean you have to change your dream."

"Then why does it feel like it?"

"Because you have your head up your ass. You're scared of something else being more important than your life goals."

"That's part of it."

"No one's going to swoop in and steal your job because you have a baby. I mean, Ryan should understand you needing time off."

"He does. It's my own hang-ups."

"Get over them, Noah. They don't apply here. Back in Cyndryann things were a mess for all of us. But this city, and the people that come with it, are our new start. I took mine, and so did Jen. Now, it's time for you to take yours. Starting with your job, but continuing with your baby. And your baby mama, who is one awesome woman, in case you didn't already realize that."

"I realize it, but Jyn's pissed. Rightly so."

"Admitting it's the first step."

"I'm guessing you're going to tell me groveling is the second."

"See, you already know what to do. You don't need me."

"I'll always need my best friend."

"As will I."

I fight the urge to get up, and hug him, even though I want to. Too many prying eyes with cell phones here, and we don't need the scandal. It would be just a hug for us, but by the time the headlines went around, it would be Bray cheating on Darcy with me. Thankfully, no one's found out about Jyn, because she doesn't need a spotlight on everything right now. Especially while she's so mad at me.

When I get back to the office, I call Kenny to ask about free time he might have to re-schedule the sonogram. He says he's free today, and also offers to check in with Jyn. Once I receive his text with a time, I make my way to Ryan's office. I hate to ask for a favor so soon, but I know I need to do this.

"Hey boss," I tell him once Chloe waves me in.

"Hey, how are the plans coming along?"

"Great. I have a meeting with Matt tomorrow to talk about what he wants, so I can incorporate everything."

"Good. Have you picked an assistant yet?"

"No. I've had my head focused on drafting up the design. There hasn't been time for anything else."

"Except Jyn, right?"

"Not exactly."

"Uh-oh."

"That's why I'm here. I missed a sonogram appointment, and I was able to re-schedule for today. I'd have to leave in an hour, though."

"I already told you to take whatever time you need."

"I hate taking advantage of your generosity when I've only been here such a short time."

"I wouldn't offer if I didn't mean it. Go see your baby, and give yourself some time tomorrow to interview assistants. Once you finish the drafting stage, and Matt approves everything, you'll be swamped and need the help."

"I will," I promise him. "Thanks again."

He waves me off with a smile, and I go back to my office, determined to get as much work done as possible before I have to leave. The time flies, but luckily, I remembered to set an alarm for myself. I head out, making it the C&C building with ten minutes to spare.

I've never been in the medical ward before, and I'm impressed with what I see when I get off the elevator. I had no doubt Reina's part of this building was state of the art, but this place is even more insane than I'd imagined.

"Hello, Noah," Jyn tells me, not bothering to stand from her seat in the waiting room.

"Hi. Thank you for agreeing to this."

"I told you I would."

"I know, but I was an ass."

"Agreed."

"Can I take you to dinner after this?"

"It's not dinner time."

"Okay, then how about a snack?"

She eyes me warily, before her face softens. "Right now, I don't turn down baked goods, or ice cream."

"Whatever you want."

"Okay."

"Are you ready?" Kenny asks, smiling at both of us.

"Yes," we say at the same time.

"Well, let's go look at your baby."

He leads us to an exam room, where a nurse is already setting everything up. I help Jyn up onto the table, and hold her hand as some gel is squirted on her stomach. Kenny takes hold of the scanner, and moves it over her belly, adjusting things on the machine as needed.

All of a sudden, I'm seeing my baby for the first time. She turns right to us, and shows us her parts. "It's a girl," I say in wonder.

"Yes," Kenny agrees.

"Wow."

"She's beautiful," Jyn says, and when I look over, tears are running down her cheeks.

I lean over, and kiss them away. "She is. Just like her mommy."

I say that, because I know it's true, even though we only see images on the screen, and they aren't clear. With Jyn as her mother, my girl is going to be a knockout. And probably a kick-ass chick, too.

"She's still healthy, and growing at a good rate. You could go into labor safely any day."

"She's not due yet," I remind him, worried for both of my girls.

"No, but it's safe for both of them if it happened right now."

"Oh, okay. Good to know."

"Look at her little hands, Noah," Jyn says, smiling at me.

"They're perfect. All of her is perfect."

"I'm going to need to go buy some girl things. I have neutral items, but nothing specific to a girl."

"Can I go?"

"I'd like that."

"Me, too."

We watch the screen for several more minutes, marveling at our beautiful girl. Brayden was right—there has to be room for this baby, _and_ my career in my life—because I'm already in love with her.

Jyn

I can't even describe how happy I was to see Noah excited about our baby. And now, we're out for decadent desserts at Downtown Summerlin. This is pretty much the perfect day so far.

"Do you want to look at some of the stores here, or are you too tired?"

"I'm not too tired," I tell him honestly, because I would love to look around with him. "Are you sure you don't need to get back to work?"

"Nope. Ryan said I should take the afternoon off."

"You're really okay with that?"

He looks me in the eye when he answers. "Yes."

"Okay, then. Let's shop."

We start at H&M since it's the closest to where we are. I have fun picking everything out with Noah, and smile when he grabs our girl superhero shirts from the boy's section, too. After making it through Macy's, Dillards, and every small store that even looks like it has something for babies, plus getting me some bath stuff at Lush, Noah is bogged down with bags.

"I think we bought too much," I tell him with a laugh.

"No such thing. My girls get whatever they want."

"I'm a woman, not a girl."

"I didn't mean to offend you."

"You didn't. I just wanted to remind you, because some women don't like to be called girls."

"Who cares about other women?"

"You might want to date them. Just because we're having a baby together, doesn't mean you're chained to me."

"You didn't hear me say I loved you the other night?"

"I did, but then you forgot us the next day. Those three words are wonderful to hear, but when your actions don't live up to them, it hurts even more."

"Fuck. I hate myself a little right now."

He looks as defeated as he sounds, which makes me want to cut him some slack. Not a whole length of rope, but I'll give him more to hold on to.

"I know it's an adjustment, Noah. It was for me, too. All I ask is that you try. I said trying wasn't enough, but it really is. You've been wonderful today, and I appreciate it."

"You shouldn't have to ask, and you won't. I promise. Today has been great for me too."

"You're going to mess up, and so am I, because neither one of us is perfect. We just need to keep trying, and talking to each other about how we feel."

He leans over, and kisses me, letting me know with his actions that he's on-board with what I need. I kiss him back, letting him know we're good right now. I don't know what the future will bring, but for now, we're good.

Once we get home, I show him the nursery I've started setting up, and the pile of presents. "I wanted to open them with you."

"Thank you. I really appreciate it."

We dive into the stack of gifts, and I was right to wait for him. It's fun having him here as I gush over little clothes and booties, and he smiles at some of the toys. There are things we can't figure out, making us both laugh, and there are things that make us both tear up a little.

"What did you get me?" I ask, picking up the gift bag he brought to the shower.

"Nothing special."

I pull out a stuffed baby giraffe, and can't help but smile. "It's adorable. I love giraffes."

"I remember. I didn't know it was your shower, but I'll admit I thought of you when I saw it."

"I wish I hadn't scared you off in London. I had the worst time, walking around alone and heartbroken."

"I wish I hadn't been scared to admit I loved you. We have to go back, and walk around holding hands, and showing everyone we're in love."

"It's going to be hard to travel with the baby—and your job."

"Give it a couple months, and we can go away for a weekend while my sister, or my friends, watch our girl. If you want."

"I want."

Noah helps me put all the clothes and toys from the shower away, but we decide to tackle our purchases tomorrow. I'm tired, so he orders us takeout, and puts my feet on his lap so he can rub them. I let him spend the night, because I missed him, but we don't make love. He pulls me into his arms, and holds me all night, one hand massaging my belly as we fall asleep. This might just all work out.

# 5

Noah

I wake up with my arm over Jyn's belly, which is currently moving. I come awake immediately, and watch in wonder as the baby kicks my fingers. I move my hand, and a little foot moves along with me.

"Pretty cool, huh?"

"So cool."

"She's been quiet every other time you were here, so I'm glad she finally decided to play with her daddy today."

"Do you think she knows it's me?"

"Honestly, no, but you can start reading to her, and talking to her. I've heard babies recognize their parents' voices when they come out. It could be a myth, but I'm choosing to believe it."

"I'm going to believe it too."

I lean over Jyn, and start talking. I don't have a book to read right now, but I try to sing. Jyn starts laughing so hard, I slap her ass, startling us both.

"You slapped me!"

"You were making fun of me."

"Because you were about to make my ears bleed."

"I was trying to be sweet."

"It _was_ sweet," she admits.

"Sorry I slapped you."

"I'm not sure I'm upset about it, but not much I can do about it right now."

"I can be kinky once the baby's born."

"I might just hold you to that."

"I wish I could stay here with you all day, but I have to work."

"Me too."

"I have a meeting with Matt, so if you want to ride in together, we can."

"I'll have to get home tonight."

"I can pick you up, and take you to dinner."

"My aunt is flying in tonight, but can I get a rain check?"

"I could take you both out," I offer.

"You could, except I called and asked her to come because you made me sad."

Well, shit. "Okay, so you can tell her you're happy now, and I'll take you out tomorrow."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah."

"Thanks for helping me be happy again."

"Just 'helping'?"

"You're not responsible for my happiness, Noah. You have an effect on it, but it's not all up to you."

"I'm going to do my best to keep you happy, anyway."

"Please do."

Since we're driving separately, I park in guest parking at C&C, and pick up my day badge from the security desk. The elevator takes me to Matt's floor, and his assistant tells me I can go on in.

"Hi Matt, it's good to see you."

"I'm not sure I feel the same way."

"Oh."

"Jyn is a good friend, and I don't like seeing her hurt."

"I don't want to hurt her."

"Yet, you did."

"Yes."

"If this project is too big for you, let me know. I can have Ryan pass it on to someone else."

"Is that a threat?" I ask, getting pissed off.

"No. It's a warning to not miss another appointment with Jyn."

"My personal life has nothing to do with my work."

"You're right, but at the same time, you're also wrong. The people who work in my inner circle are like family to me, and I'll protect them at all costs."

"Jyn doesn't need protection from me."

"Good. Keep it that way."

I barely hold in my anger for the rest of the meeting. I can tell he knows I'm pissed, and I'm pretty sure he's enjoying it. No matter how I'm feeling, I let my work speak for itself. He may be having fun messing with me, but he's also impressed by what I've come up with so far. I make notes about what else he wants, and then I head out.

The meeting went longer than I expected, so I text Jyn to see if she's having a break soon. She tells me she's just about to go on one, and says she'll meet me in the cafeteria. My badge wouldn't have gotten me to that floor originally, but she must have given me clearance, because I'm taken directly there once I step on the elevator.

"Hi, stranger," she says, greeting me with a kiss once I step into the hall.

"Hi, beautiful."

"How did your meeting go?"

I take her hand as we walk inside, deciding to keep Matt's macho act to myself. "It was good. Matt gave me a list of things to work on, but he likes my initial design."

"Of course he does, because you're brilliant."

I used to show her my drawings when we'd meet up, and it makes me proud to know she remembers them. "You're not so bad yourself. Security badass for one of the best companies in the world."

"So, what we're saying is our kid's lucky to have us."

"And we're lucky to have each other."

We grab fruit and drinks, taking a seat in a half booth by a set of windows, looking out over Las Vegas. "I want all the details about the new building."

"I'm sure Matt will fill you in."

She tilts her head at me. "I want to hear it from you. If you're allowed to tell me."

"I didn't ask, but since he's so protective of you, I don't think he'll care."

"What do you mean about him being protective? Did he say something to you about me?"

Dammit. I didn't mean to let it slip. "It doesn't matter."

"Meaning it _does_ matter. What did he say?"

"I can handle Matt."

"You shouldn't have to worry about anything other than giving him an amazing building."

"He liked my plans."

"And?"

"He told me not to hurt you, and said he'd pull me off the project if I couldn't handle things."

"I'm sorry," she says, holding her face in her hands.

I reach out, moving her hands, and tipping her chin up. "I'm glad you have friends who watch out for you."

"You're not going to hurt me."

"I'm going to do my best not to."

"I know."

She leans over, and kisses me sweetly. It's going to be okay. I can do this. I can do it all. I have to.

Jyn

I avoided Matt most of the day, because I know he's just looking out for me. I don't like anyone seeing me as weak, but with him, I know it's not the case. He's one of the best men I've ever met, and I know his heart's in the right place. Doesn't mean I didn't want to punch him, so staying away was the safest option for today.

I had a car service pick Mari up from the airport, so I go straight home. I'm not surprised to see Heather, Sandy, and Jamie with her when I get to her guest apartment. Once they were my childhood friends, but now they serve a greater purpose. One I've tried hard to leave behind.

"Look at you!" Mari exclaims, pulling me into her arms.

"Some days I really don't want to."

"Nonsense! You look beautiful."

The girls nod in agreement, and I smile back at my aunt. "You look fabulous as always."

Her hair is now grey, but her figure is still trim and proper. Even in her jeans and button-down shirt, she looks like she can command a room. It's a gift she shares with my mother, and her mother before her, yet somehow it skipped me.

"Enough of the niceties; tell us about the young man who's giving you trouble."

"He's not. I mean, we're getting along now. I shouldn't have called you."

"You can call me whenever you need me, and I'll come."

"I came here to be independent."

"No one can deny you have re-invented yourself here. You've proven you can thrive on your own. Asking for help is not a weakness."

"Some would see it as that. My mother would see it that way."

"She would," Mari agrees.

"Any advice for when I finally see her?"

"Telling her before the baby is born would be a good idea."

I look to my old friends, and none of them look surprised. "You trust them."

"Implicitly."

"Good. What do you think?" I ask them.

Heather is the first to answer. "You need a stiff drink, but since you can't have one now, I'll have one waiting for you when you can."

"Yes, thank you."

"We need to meet this Noah," Jamie tells me.

"You will. He wants to go to dinner tomorrow."

"With all of us?" Jamie asks.

"He doesn't know you're all here, but I'll introduce you as old friends travelling with my aunt."

"Which they are," Mari agrees. "You will not have to lie."

"I'm thankful for that."

"Can we see the Corrigan & Co. building?" Heather asks.

"Yes. I'll give you a tour tomorrow."

"At lunchtime?"

"Ah, so now I know your true motives," I tell her with a laugh.

"Is that a yes?" Sandy asks.

"Yes."

It's great to have my aunt, and my friends here with me. It's been over a year since I've seen them, and even longer since I've been "home". This is my home now, even if it's not supposed to be this way. Nowhere in any plans was I supposed to be an unwed mother either, but I've never been one to follow the plans for me, so why should I start now?

# 6

Noah

I'd rather be working on the plans Matt and I talked about, but Ryan told me to find an assistant this afternoon, and I'm not going to ignore an order. Chloe gave me a folder earlier this week, with all the applicants, but I chose to leave it untouched on my desk. That's leaving me with less than 30 minutes to skim all the info, but I've always been a people person, so I'm not worried. I have no doubt I'll get a read on who's the best fit for me once I meet them all.

The first few are nice enough, but not what I'm looking for. They're not formidable enough to stand firm with a client's secretary or assistant, and I need someone who can go into battle with me. The blonde from the other day actually looks great on paper, but when she pops in and tries to sit on my lap, I send her packing as well.

I'm about to give up when a teenager walks in next. He's new to the firm, and from what I can see in his file, this is a summer job for him. I need someone permanent, but there has to be a reason Chloe sent him to me, so I try to keep an open mind as I stand to greet him.

"Hi, I'm Landon."

"Noah. Please have a seat."

"Thanks for interviewing me. Chlo said she thinks we'd be a good fit, but I hate being known as the guy who gets a job because of who he's friends with."

I'm liking the kid even more. "How old are you, Landon?"

"Eighteen."

"College plans?"

"I've got a baseball scholarship to UNLV."

"Impressive."

"My mom would've preferred for it to be an academic one, but baseball's my strength."

"How do you know Chloe?"

"My parents are good friends with all the Griffins. I've known them since I was a kid."

"Are you going to work hard, and stand up to any assholes who try to give us shite?"

"Hell yeah," he says, and then whispers the rest. "I can really cuss here?"

"Just in my office, when we're alone."

"Cool. Does that mean I have the job?"

"Yes. I know what it's like to be surrounded by the rich and famous. It's hard to stand out, or find your place."

"Even when you get a baseball scholarship."

"Even then."

"I won't be able to work much when school starts."

"We'll worry about that when the time comes."

"Is there anything else I should know right now? About you? I know you're from Europe, right?"

"I'm actually from the East Coast, but I moved to a small European island when I was young."

"Huh."

"Oh, and I'm going to be a father in a month or so."

"Seriously?"

"Yes."

"Um, maybe I should mention that my mom wasn't married when she had me."

"Do you want to tell me about it?"

"I do."

I lean back, and gesture for him to go on. He tells me about his early childhood, and his parents. It's a story that's different from mine, but also mirrors parts of it in a strange way. Once he's done, I know I've made the right choice. Now, if I can just make the right choices with Jyn, everything will be golden.

Jyn

Noah got us a reservation at Lotus of Siam, one of our favorite local Thai restaurants. He was supposed to pick us up, but Matt wanted a last-minute call, and he couldn't say no. I know he couldn't, because Matt's already being hard on him, but I wish he could've.

"Sorry I'm late," he says, rushing over to our table, and kissing me on the forehead.

Before sitting down, he shakes hands with Mari, Heather, Sandy, and Jamie. Their smiles are genuine, and I breathe a sigh of relief. It's too late to worry about them liking him, but I still want them to.

"How was your call with Matt?"

"He wants to change some windows."

"Couldn't he have emailed you the information?" I ask, and he shrugs, telling me that yes, Matt could've just emailed him. "I'm going to talk to him."

"Please don't. I can handle a little bit of inconvenience."

"Matthew is very protective of Jyn." Mari tells him.

She saw it first-hand when I gave them a tour of C&C earlier. Matt had back-to-back meetings all morning, but he ducked out of one to greet us. He assured Mari he was watching out for me, and if there's anything I need, all I have to do is ask. She's met him before, but seeing him take care of me endeared him to her for life.

"I don't need protection," I remind everyone.

"It isn't a bad thing," Sandy tells me, and I shoot her a glare.

"How about we all agree Jyn can look out for herself, but having people looking out for her makes us all happy too," Noah says, smiling at me.

"I think I may like you, Noah." Mari tells him.

"I hope to make you sure by the time you leave."

Dinner goes well, with Noah impressing these women who mean so much to me. He genuinely likes them too, making things so much easier for me. At least on that front.

"You need to tell him," Heather says, when he goes to bring the car around.

"I wish I didn't."

"But you do," Jamie says.

"Not yet."

"Jyn," Mari admonishes me. "He cares for you, and you know it's wrong to keep this from him."

"Just a little longer."

"I cannot force you to do this, but I will warn you that if he finds out before you tell him, it's going to destroy what you've built."

"Don't you think you're being a little melodramatic?"

"No. I know of Noah, and how he was raised, and your secret is going to be a blow to him."

"I'm not ready."

I'm probably never going to be ready, and we all know it. They drop it as he pulls around, though. Noah's SUV seats seven, so we all fit comfortably in various rows. My aunt makes small talk on the drive home, keeping things light. I know there's a chance things will go very dark when I decide to be brave, but tonight is not that night.

# 7

Jyn

I want this baby out of me. I've heard women say they feel this way when it's almost time, but I didn't really understand it until now.

The past month has flown by. Noah and I have settled into a routine of work, dinner and movie dates, prepping for the baby, and making love. It's been almost too good to be true, but I'm not questioning it.

"Honey, I'm home," Noah calls out, coming through the front door.

"You look tired."

"I'm full out knackered, but I have a crib to put together."

"I told you we could hire someone to do it."

"No one else is building my baby's crib. She's going to be a daddy's girl from the first moment we see each other, and I need her to know I'm going to always do everything for her."

Swoon. Oh hell, I didn't think this man could make me love him any more than I already do, but then he goes and says things like that. All. The. Time. Now that we're all in with each other, he constantly romances me, and makes me feel like I'm the most important person in the world.

"I can help. I mean, I can't bend over, and you're always having to tie my shoes for me, but I could hand you stuff."

"I'd love that."

It's sexy seeing him pull off his suit, and putting together the crib in just his boxer briefs and t-shirt. He has to ask me for some tools more than once, because I'm staring so hard, but we make it work. I can tell he's never had to put something together by himself, because it takes him twice as long as it would take me before I was so pregnant, but it's absolutely adorable. He doesn't know what he's doing, but he's doing it anyway, because he loves us.

"There we go," he tells me, hours later. He's just attached the mobile and little canopy to the crib, and I feel myself tear up.

"It's beautiful."

He pulls on it. "And it looks like it will stay up."

"Your first build, huh?"

Instead of smiling, he looks down. "Yeah, but Ryan wants me to work with one of the construction crews on another project before we break ground on C&C. He says it will help me understand things even more."

"Makes sense."

"I'm going to suck at it. I know I can draw, but I'm not good at building. I was lucky enough to have a mate who helped me at uni, or I would've failed."

"Everyone sucks at things, Noah. It'd be boring if you were too perfect."

"I don't like feeling less."

"I'll be here when you have a bad day, and when you have great days too."

"The same goes for me with you. You know that, right?"

"Yes."

"I'm so glad they gave me the wrong key in Amsterdam."

"Me too."

We eat a late dinner of takeout, realizing we both skipped dinner, and then we fall into bed together. Tonight, it's cuddles and caresses, and it's just perfect.

Noah

It's a week after I built my girl's crib, and I'm here on this job site, because it's what Ryan wants. Already, I can feel the stares of the other men, wondering why I'm here. I dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, but my boots are new, and my hands are soft. I stand out, and I hate every second of it.

"I'm going to have you shadow different people all week," Duane, the foreman, tells me.

"You're the boss."

He laughs at that. "You make it sound like a bad thing."

"Sorry. I'm just not used to any of this, and I'm a little freaked out."

"Understandable. Now, let me introduce you to the crew."

He gathers them around, and explains while I'm here. I see some friendly faces, some sneers, and some indifference. Nothing I haven't dealt with all my life, just in a different context at the moment. I can deal with this.

"Hope you're not afraid of heights," Derek, the guy I'm assigned to first, tells me.

"I'm not."

At least I didn't think I was, until I'm attached to a safety harness 30 stories off the ground. We're fortifying the beams, and getting ready to lay the concrete for the top floor, and yeah, I'm scared. With the wind blowing me around like a balloon, I can't imagine anyone not being scared in this situation.

"Relax," Derek says with a smirk.

"I'm seeing my life flash before my eyes right now," I admit.

"You get used to it after the tenth time or so."

"No thanks."

He shakes his head with a laugh, before showing me exactly what to do. Luckily, I can hit a nail with a hammer, so I'm able to get by without completely embarrassing myself. I'm getting into the swing of things—pun intended—and have almost forgotten how high up we are, when a call comes over the radio, telling me I need to get down to the ground ASAP.

There's no running up here, but I walk as briskly as possible, knowing in my gut that something's wrong. The elevator seems to be moving at a snail's pace, but I'm on the ground and running once it stops.

"What's wrong?" I ask Duane.

"You're about to be a father."

"What?" I screech.

"Ryan said you couldn't be reached on your phone, so he called me. Get going."

He doesn't have to tell me twice. I don't even take the time to remove my tool belt, despite how uncomfortable it is to drive with it on. Jyn is having her baby in the medical ward at C&C, and the guards are ready for me when I get there. They wave me through to an elevator, and I will it to go faster as I descend.

"Where is she?" I ask, bursting into the waiting room.

"Room five," a nurse yells out, and then I'm there.

Jyn is lying on a bed, with Darcy and Jenysis on either side of her. She looked like she was in pain when I entered, but now she's laughing.

"Oh my God, Noah, you are every woman's fantasy right now."

"Ew, not mine," Darcy tells her.

"Nor mine," Jen agrees with a shudder.

"Well, he's mine. Hard hat, tool belt, plaid shirt with a sweaty tank underneath. Yum."

"Um," I say, because what else can I say after that.

"The drugs are kicking in," Kendrick explains as I take off the hat, and tool belt.

"Meanie."

"It would be hard to be next to you in all that," I remind her.

"You better save it for when we can have sex again."

"Okay, I'm waiting outside," Jen says.

"Me too!" Darcy yells, running out after her.

"I only wanted you in here with me, but I felt bad asking them to leave," Jyn says with a smirk.

"So, you don't like the construction gear?" I ask, coming to stand next to her.

"Oh no, I do. Just not feeling sexual at the moment. I meant what I said about later."

I place a kiss on her forehead. "Duly noted."

"Never a dull moment," Kendrick mumbles.

"You love it, Kenny."

"Yes, Jyn, I do."

"Everything's okay, right?" I ask.

"Yes. She's at nine centimeters, and will be feeling the urge to push soon."

"Our baby's coming."

"Yeah, and until those meds kicked in, I wanted to tear her out with my bare hands."

"I'm sorry I missed it. I was on the top of a building."

"You're here now, and that's all that matters."

"You sure?"

"Positive. I'm glad you didn't see me when I was crazy."

"I've seen you crazy plenty of times."

"Yet you still love me."

"I do."

# 8

Jyn

I don't trust people who think childbirth is a beautiful thing. Looking down at my daughter, I know I love her. I feel the love, but I also still feel the pain. I thought this tiny little girl was going to tear me apart. Like, seriously rip me in two.

"We're going to take her, and get her all tested and bundled up," Kenny's head nurse, Liz, tells me.

"Thanks."

She gives me a sympathetic smile, and I think she gets it. She understands that I need to come back to myself. I don't know why I'm feeling like this, and I don't _want_ to feel like this, but I do.

"You did great, Jyn," Noah says, raining kisses over my face, before finding my lips for a kiss that makes me melt.

"I'm so tired," I admit when we break apart.

"Rest. I'll watch over our girl."

"Thank you," I say, drifting off.

When I wake up, I'm alone. It freaks me out for a moment, and I press my call button. Kenny comes in, taking a seat next to me.

"She's in the nursery with Noah and Liz."

"Is that normal? Should she be in here? Should I be feeding her?"

"There is no 'normal' with having a baby, Jyn. She can sleep wherever you'd like, and you can breastfeed or not. We've given her a small amount of formula while you slept, but she'll learn to turn to you for food, if that's what you want."

"I don't know, Kenny," I tell him, tears springing to my eyes. "Why don't I know?"

"Because your body and mind have been through a trauma. A _beautiful_ trauma, but one nonetheless."

"I've loved her since the moment I knew about her, but all of a sudden, I feel so overwhelmed."

"You love your daughter, Jyn. I have no doubt of that, but I need to recommend that one of the doctors from upstairs come down and talk to you."

"The psychs?"

"Yes."

"I don't feel depressed exactly. That's what you mean, right?"

"It could be postpartum depression, or it could be something else. The sooner we all figure it out, the better it will be for you."

"I won't hurt her. I would _never_ hurt her, no matter how weird I feel."

"I know that."

"Does Noah? Is he going to take my baby, Kenny?"

"I don't know what Noah is thinking, but he just knows you're tired right now."

"He needs to know it all."

"I agree."

"Can you have him come in here?"

"Are you sure you're ready?"

"No, but I need to tell him."

He nods, and leaves the room. I close my eyes, sobbing because I don't want to be like this. I want to cuddle my girl, and feed her. But, I can't. Not right now.

"Hey, you're up," Noah says, walking in alone.

"Yeah."

"What's wrong? Are you crying because our girl's not with me? Kenny said I should talk to you alone," he says, rushing to my side.

"No. I-I can't see her right now."

He leans back like I hit him. "What?"

"Something's wrong with me."

He looks around, checking the monitors, and lifting up the sheet that's covering me. "What is it?"

"I don't know. I just can't handle it all of a sudden."

"Handle what?"

"Being a mom."

"No. You love her."

"I do. I love her, but it's too much."

"You're figuring this out now?"

"I don't have anything figured out. Kenny's going to bring a doctor down to talk to me."

"We haven't even agreed on a name. Do you even care about her name?"

"Yes, Noah. I care. I just...I don't even know how to explain it."

"I don't want her near you if you think you'll hurt her."

"You honestly think I could hurt my own child? _Our_ child?"

He takes a deep breath before looking me in the eye. "No. I shouldn't have said that. I just don't understand."

"Neither do I."

"What do you need from me?"

"Be there for her. Until I can be there with you, let her know she's loved."

"Always."

He looks so beautiful, with his beard and hair unruly, and his eyes glistening with tears he's not shedding. I shouldn't ask, but I need to know the answer.

"Do you still love me?"

"Always. Loving you is like taking a breath I need to live."

"I'm going to get better."

"I have no doubt."

"Will you tell her I love her?"

"Every day, night, and the hours in between."

"I think they're going to release us tomorrow."

"Yeah, Kenny said that. I was hoping to bring my mom over to our place to meet her."

"Please do."

His mother is in the throes of early onset Alzheimer's. Brayden helped Darcy bring her here, and she's in an assisted living facility, with the best care money can buy. I know she still remembers her children most days, and there's nothing I want more than for her to know her granddaughter.

"I don't know if I'll get permission, but I'm going to try."

"If not, we can take her to your mom."

"We?"

"I'm hoping this weirdness is temporary, or can at least be regulated so I can come home to you soon."

"Me too."

"We need a name."

"We'll go with yours."

"Carissa?"

"Carissa Eleanor."

"I love you, Noah."

"I love you too, Jyn. Get some rest. We'll be waiting when you're ready."

Noah

I take little Cari home the next day, but I can't stop thinking about Jyn. I'm worried about her. Not about how she'll be with our daughter, but how she's coping with all of it. She's a badass, and one of the strongest women I've ever met, but this beautiful little girl of ours has taken her down.

"She's getting the help she needs," Darcy says, guessing my thoughts as she squeezes my arm.

"I know. It's just hard to see someone I love so much be in pain, and there's nothing I can do to help her."

"Taking care of my niece is helping."

"I'd be doing that anyway."

"She's beautiful, Noah."

"She is."

"I'll help you all you need until Jyn's ready."

"Are you sure? I know it's hard for you."

"Actually, it's not. I want a baby so bad, but Carissa has already won my heart, and I'd do anything for her."

"I'm so glad to hear that. I've felt so guilty since we talked. And now...now I need help, Darce."

"How long are you going to give Jyn?"

"Huh?"

"If she doesn't snap out of it, you may have to file for custody."

"Not a chance in hell. She'll get through this, or we'll make it work."

"She doesn't want to see your baby, but you think you can make it work?"

"Yes."

"It's not fair," she says, breaking down.

I place Cari in her bassinet, and go to my sister, wrapping her in my arms. "You know she loves Cari. She fought me so hard when I got here, making sure I'd be a good dad. I don't know why things changed when she had her, but she loves her."

"I know. I want to hate her, but I can't."

"You're going to have a baby, or adopt a baby, or do whatever you decide to do, and you're going to be amazing."

"Bray tells me that every day."

"My best friend is a smart guy, so of course he does."

"I think I'm going to look into adoption. It's too hard to keep trying for a baby, and get my period every month."

I wince internally, because I don't want to hear about any woman's period, much less my sister's, but I don't let my discomfort show. "I can't wait to meet your kid."

"I think it will be a kid, and not a baby. I want to adopt someone who might have a hard time being adopted. I mean, I have plenty of babies to play with and dress up around here, so why not give someone a chance?"

"Like you gave me a chance?" I ask, choking up a little.

"I don't believe you're really sure I did the right thing, even after all you know now."

I shrug, because I can't deny it. "I can't lie, and say it doesn't still hurt sometimes, but I know you did it for the right reasons, and it wasn't like I was left on the streets." Even if, at times, I sometimes wish I was.

"I won't say I wouldn't do the same thing if I had to do it all again. That series of events has led us all to right where we need to be."

"Yeah, I guess it has."

Darcy leaves soon after, and I work to get Carissa and I settled in. I watch over her as she sleeps, checking to make sure she's breathing every few minutes. I make up some of her formula into the little bottles Jyn and I bought weeks ago, wanting to be ready for when she's hungry. I check the diapers on her changing table, along with the ointments, powder and lotions, which are all where they need to be. And then, I left myself breathe.

I breathe through the pain of possibly losing the woman I love. She'll be here physically with me, but will she be the same? _Should_ she even be the same after having a baby?

I don't know the answers to these questions, but I do know I was telling Darcy the truth; we'll make it work, no matter what. Jyn's in pain right now, but the three of us are a family now, and we'll survive anything the world throws at us. Family and acceptance is all I've ever wanted, and I'm not about to let mine go.

# 9

Jyn

"How are you doing?" Theo asks, coming into my hospital room.

"Better."

"I don't know what you're going through, but if there's anything I can do to help, I want to."

"Honestly, I don't understand exactly what I'm going through, either. It seems to be a mix of postpartum depression, and a shock to my system. My labor wasn't even that hard, from what I've read online, but it messed me up."

"You want to be a mom, Jyn. I was with you all through your pregnancy, and I can say that with absolute certainty. Whatever's going on now doesn't change that."

"I _do_ want to be a mom, but I feel like it's too late. Like my girl is going to know I wasn't there for her in her first days, and she's going to feel unwanted."

"Bullshit. That little girl heard you talk to her and love her for months. A few days don't matter."

"You think so?"

"I _know_ so."

"I want to go home to Noah and Cari, but it scares me. What if I see her, and freak out again?"

"Then Noah takes her into another room while you try to deal."

"I don't want him to hate me."

"He's worried about you, but he doesn't hate you."

"I'm not so sure."

"He said he calls you every day."

"He does, but is it just out of obligation?"

"No," Noah says, walking into the room.

"Noah."

"Hi, beautiful," he says, walking over to hand me a bouquet of beautiful flowers.

"Are these for me?"

"Yep. Cari and I picked them out."

"Where is she? Oh, God. I should've asked that first."

"Relax, Jyn. I'm happy you didn't ask that first, because it means you trust me with her."

"Of course I trust you."

"And I trust you. Cari's outside with Liz."

"Oh."

"Kenny said you might be ready to say hi to her."

I am. I know I am. I'm not completely over whatever this is, but I want to see my daughter. "Please."

"I'll leave you two alone, and send Liz in," Theo says.

"Thanks for stopping by."

"Anytime, Jyny."

Noah takes my hand, and I squeeze it as Liz walks in with my daughter. I nod at her, and hold out my hands. I smile down at Cari, and touch her cheek, but I can't speak yet. I don't know what to say. When she reaches out to take my finger in her little fist, I have to fight back the tears. I also find my voice.

"Hello, sweet girl. I'm your Mommy."

She squeezes my finger tighter, even as her eyes close. I stare at her in awe, feeling all of my love for her, but also my fear. I fight to make sure the love is more prevalent, and nuzzle my face against hers, breathing her in.

"She knows you. It's why she's sleeping. She knows she's safe with her mommy," Noah tells me.

"I want to come home, Noah. I need to take my meds, and I can't promise I'll be perfect, but I want to be with you. _Both_ of you."

"Then let's go."

It doesn't take us long to get me released. Kenny says the doctors will come to me if I don't feel like coming here, but I know I'll need to get out of the apartment. We agree to a mix of both. He lives in the apartments, so he'll check on me as well, and be available if I need anything.

"You can do this, Jyn," he tells me.

"I can," I agree.

"Audrey has been working on a new medication, but I'm not ready to try it on you yet. Once I'm sure what you're on now is keeping you on an even keel, I'll look at introducing you to it."

"Okay."

Audrey is part of the Society, and a brilliant chemist. She works with Kenny, and our friend, Tegan's husband Caleb, to create new and better medications. They use them to help people through the C&C Foundation, and also to heal the Society women. Mental illness is not something to be taken lightly, and Reina doesn't. She would never divulge who gets help, but I know it's several of her women. No one's embarrassed by it, and I refuse to be, either. Asking for help isn't a bad thing.

Noah

I'm not nervous about Jyn being with Cari, but I can't say I'm not nervous about her coming home. This was her apartment first, and she may not like the way I've moved a few things around. It's only been a few days, but I figured out ways to make things easier for myself. A little turn of the couch, the bassinet right up against our bed, because Cari doesn't like her crib yet, and just a bunch of small things.

"You moved the couch," she says, walking in.

"Yeah."

"You don't have to look so nervous, Noah. This is your place too, and if moving something seems right to you, you should do it."

"It was blocking the path to the bedrooms a little."

She nods. "I can see where it would. I couldn't see it before, but now I do."

"It's different when you're home with her."

"I'm glad to be home with her," she says, reaching for Cari.

I hand her over without hesitation, and help them get comfortable on the couch. Cari moves her mouth in a way that tells me she's hungry, her adorable lips twisting into a pout. "Let me get her a bottle."

"Can I try to feed her? I mean, I expressed in the hospital just in case."

"Oh. Yeah, sure."

I hold Cari while she pulls her shirt and bra off. She has nursing bras in our room, but I didn't think to bring one, since I wasn't sure if she was coming home today, and also because I didn't know what size she is now.

It takes a little work, and a few tries, but Cari ends up latching on. Jyn winces a little, and I move to take Cari, but she shakes her head.

"Her mouth is a little rougher than the pump. I wasn't expecting it, but I'm good."

"She's loving her Mommy's milk. Can't say I blame her, since I love your tits too."

"Perv. But yeah, I'm glad she was able to latch on. I think I needed this more than I realized."

"She knows you," I tell her softly.

"I wasn't here for her."

"You've been there for her more than any other human on this planet, and she knows it."

"Theo said that, too."

"I don't know him well, but he seems like a wise man. And a good one."

"He is. I'm close with all the security guys, but he's the one I'm closest too. Maybe because he's the newest of them, and even though he's known Aiden for years, he doesn't have as strong a bond with them."

"The other guys are all closer with Darce, I think."

"Oh yeah. I remember when she was dating Brayden. I thought it was going to be war."

"Thankfully, it was just a kingdom."

"Were you shocked when Brayden gave up his kingdom for her?"

"Honestly, yes. He was born to be King, and none of us ever saw him as anything other than our future ruler."

"I guess love really can change a person."

"Their love certainly did. Actually, from what I can tell, most of the Society women have had epic romances."

"Do you feel epic?"

"No. I'm just a simple man, Jyn."

"Well, I happen to love you just the way you are."

I know she does, and that's what makes this situation as close to perfect as it could possibly be. Jyn doesn't care about my past, or how I grew up. She just cares that I'm here with her now. I'm going to always be here, because as much as she values me, I treasure her right back.

# 10

Jyn

It's been two weeks since I had Cari, and Noah went back to work today. He didn't have to, because Ryan offered him all the work-from-home time he needed. Or no work at all, if he wanted that, too. I know he loves being here with us, but I also saw how much he missed being in his office. He lives to create, and while we both acknowledge that our little girl is the best thing we've ever created, he needs more. He'd never say it, but I know he does.

My meds and therapy sessions have been doing their intended job, and I'm feeling settled right now. Happy, even. I still have my moments of uncertainty and fear, but it's hard to feel scared with my daughter in my arms.

She's so little and perfect, and I love her more than anything except Noah. The chunk of my heart he owns is untouchable, but she has her own little part as well. They happily share the rest.

I've changed many a diaper, fed her what feels like tons of breast milk, and dressed her in the cutest outfits. It's fun, but if I'm being honest with myself, I miss _my_ job too. I've never been someone to just hang out and watch TV, or read a book. I like to be on the move, and taking care of issues and problems.

The prospect of four more weeks of nothing is torture. I know better than to ask Kenny to release me early, but I'm going a little stir-crazy. I decide to take Cari outside for some fresh air, because we haven't really done a lot of that yet. Germs are a scary thing when your baby's little, but I really can't take being inside any longer.

I put her stroller together, and get us downstairs with no problem. A quick wave at the guards, and we're outside by the pool. I put us under a cabana, and pull her next to me on a bed. I switch on the TV, and choose Sesame Street, because I loved it as a kid, and even though she's tiny, she might absorb some of the messages on there. Or not, but it doesn't hurt to try.

"Jyn?" Jenysis asks, standing cautiously at the entrance.

"Hi."

"I saw you coming outside, and wasn't sure if you needed something."

"Just fresh air."

"Do you want some company?"

"Yes. Please. I'm so bored."

"I can imagine. Cari's wonderful, but too little to do much with, yeah?"

"Yes. She eats, sleeps, and poops."

"We've all wanted to come hang out with you, but we didn't know how you were feeling."

"I'm less of a mess than I was when I gave birth."

"You had a rough time, and we all get it."

"Even Darcy?"

"It's deeper down for her, but yes, she understands. We've talked about it."

"Can I ask you something personal?"

"Since the world knows most of my business, why not?"

Jen is engaged to one of the hottest pop stars in the world. He was wrongly accused of rape last year, and she stood by him, which opened the Princess of Cyndryann up to more scrutiny that most people ever have to face. It's not Wayne I have questions about, though.

"You grew up with Noah, living like he was almost a brother to you."

"That's not a question, but yes. I mean, kind of. He lived with Bray. My family was in another castle on the island until Bray's dad died. And I was in London for school most of the time."

"Was it hard when Darcy came back into his life?"

"Well, we did have a sword fight over him, and there was jealousy on both sides, but we got over it."

"Sword fight?"

"Yes. At the time, I didn't know she was his sister, so I thought her anger was over Bray. When we all found out, I got it, and did my best to assure her I never wanted to take her place. Noah and I are close as can be, but she's his sister."

"That wouldn't make her more important. It's almost like he was adopted by Brayden's family, and you _were_ his family."

"Maybe if he hadn't known Darcy was out there, yes. But looking back, I can see how he was always watching for her. Waiting for her to come back."

"None of you has had things easy."

"Nope, but that's not a bad thing. I don't know if everything would be so good with all of us if it'd been easy."

"Noah and I have had to work for this."

"I know, and all I can tell you is it probably won't be the end of it all."

"Noah mentioned going to Cyndryann to baptize Cari next month."

"It's what the people expect."

"He's not a royal, though."

She wants to say something; I can see it on her face. A range of emotions goes through her eyes, before she finally settles on a smile. A fake smile that's not fooling me, but I don't call her on it.

"He's part of the royal court, and expected to celebrate with us."

"Should I be scared?"

"Of my father and our people? No. Of Parliament and Bray's mother? Probably."

She hangs out with us a little longer, before having to head upstairs to get ready for some volunteer work. We agree to plan a girl's night for me later this week, with whoever's available, because she knows I need adult conversation. I feel lighter, but at the same time a new weight drops on me.

There's a story I don't know about Noah. It's about his royal duties, and since no one's telling me what it is, I can't help but feel like it's bad. I can wait a little longer to find out what's going on, but I won't wait forever.

Noah

Ryan sent me back to the construction site when I insisted on coming in to work. I'll be the first to admit he's right about this work helping me, because I've learned things I couldn't be taught in school. Manual labor isn't for the faint of heart, but it's honorable work. These guys are rough, and sometimes crude, but they're good guys.

"You're a quick study," Duane tells me over lunch.

"I always tried to blend in, which meant learning different things."

"I won't ask about that, because I'm not a touchy-feely guy, but I'll say it's served you well. I haven't had one complaint about your work, and the guys are growing to respect you."

"I can actually walk now after a full day here, so I know I'm improving."

"You could always work here instead of the fancy office, if you wanted to. You'd have to join the union, but I'd help you."

"Thanks for the offer, but I've always dreamed of being an architect."

"You like to draw, I get it."

No, he doesn't. It's not about drawing, but rather leaving my mark on this world. Buildings may be torn down, but while they stand, they are landmarks. Even the McDonald's down the street has had a check-in, and a selfie, from at least one person. Great buildings get thousands of pics, and Facebook mentions. It's always been my dream to stand out—in a good way—and I've always loved buildings.

Old buildings that make me feel young, modern masterpieces that make me feel small, and cozy homes that radiate the love of a family. I love them all. Well, maybe not _all_ buildings I see, but buildings are my passion.

The first things I notice when walking into a building are the details. The stairs, the windows, even the light fixtures. I want to be the one to create buildings others look at, and admire, so yeah, no construction job in my future. My dream may not be as carefully planned out as it once was, but it belongs to me, and I don't want to change anything else about it.

After finishing the day, I head to my SUV, texting to ask Jyn if she wants me to pick up dinner on my way home. She tells me she's got it covered, which I'll admit makes me happy, so I drive straight to the apartments.

When I walk into our place, I smell something delicious. "Wow, I could get used to this," I tell Jyn, hugging her from behind as she stirs something on the stove.

"It's just a roast," she says with a smile.

"You cooked it, so it's not 'just' anything."

"The crock pot cooked it."

"That looks like homemade gravy to me."

"Okay, so I made a little of it."

"You didn't chop the veggies?"

"Fine, I cooked it. Happy now?"

"So very happy."

"Don't expect me to turn into Susie Homemaker."

"Your name's not Susie, but what's so bad about staying home?"

"Seriously? You practically ran from here when I told you it was okay, and you want to know why I can't just stay home?"

"I have a building to design."

"I thought you were on the construction crew today."

"I was, but you know I have to do that for another week, and then I can get back to the C&C building. It's important."

"And my job isn't?"

"My job is giving you a new place to work."

"Unbelievable."

She turns off the burner, and drops the spoon she was using on the holder by the stove. When she pushes past me, and moves to the door, I race after her.

"Where are you going?"

"Away from you before I say something I just might not regret."

"Come on, Jyn. You know you don't have to go back to work. Matt would let you stay here, and you have anything and everything you could want at your fingertips."

"I _want_ to do my job. I'm damn good at it, and I. Want. To. Do. It."

"Why? What do you love so much about it?"

"Nothing I want to talk to you about right now. I'm going to go hang out in the game room, if you don't mind taking care of Cari."

"Of course I don't mind taking care of her. I came home with her, after all."

I know it's the wrong thing to say, even as I'm saying it. Her eyes flash with more hurt than anger, and I want to drop to my knees and beg for her forgiveness.

"I know," she says softly, and then she's gone.

She walks out the door, and a part of me wonders if she'll be back. A small part, because the rest of me knows she'd never leave Cari, but I can't say the same about her leaving me. I was honest with her, but she wasn't ready to hear it. Maybe she'll never be ready, and maybe I shouldn't feel the way I do.

I _do_ feel it, though. I felt it before she had our daughter, and as the weeks pass, I feel it even more. I want them both here, in this building, where nothing and no one can hurt them. I know I can't keep them locked up in a tower, but having Jyn not put herself in danger every day is something I crave. There haven't been many issues at C&C from what Darcy told me, but there have been some. The mother of my child should never be in danger. It's not sexist of me, because I don't mind any other woman doing it, or even _my_ woman having a job. Just not the one she has. Hopefully I can explain it better to her when she gets back.

# 11

Jyn

Things have been strained between Noah and me over the last couple of days, so I'm looking forward to hanging out with the girls tonight. He didn't bat an eye when I told him I was going, but that's because he's been walking on eggshells ever since he acted like an ass with me. I didn't ask him about watching Cari, because that started some of what happened; I just said I was going, and he said okay.

I haven't cooked him a meal in the past two days, cleaned up after him, or done his laundry. It might be petty, but I'm hurting right now. He doesn't support me and my job, and I don't know what to do with that. I'm going back to work, and I can't make him like it. Just like he can't make me like the thought of being a happy housechick. Not even a _housewife_ , because we're not married. Just his baby mama.

"You're here," Jen says, engulfing me in a hug when I get to the atrium downstairs.

"Wouldn't miss it."

Along with her, there are a few other Society women. Reina, Ellie, Jade, Isa, Kali, and Darcy. They're all connected to me, or to Noah, and I'm happy to see them.

"I'm glad we could put this together, because I bet you're going crazy right about now," Reina says. "I love my boy, but I had to get back to work."

"Exactly."

"A paid vacation isn't a bad thing," Darcy says, glaring at me.

"Vacation?" I ask, stopping myself from pointing out that I have a baby to take care of. Noah shared with me how she's having trouble getting pregnant, and no matter how mean she is to me, I won't throw that in her face.

"Darcy," Jade says, giving her a look.

"Sorry, Jyn."

"It's okay. Everyone's entitled to their own opinions about me. But, if you don't want to be here, why are you here?"

"Because my brother loves you."

"Fair enough."

'C'mon, Darce," Isa says, looking disappointed in her friend.

"It's really okay. I don't want her to pretend with me."

"Good, because I want to know why my brother's been looking like he lost his puppy the last couple of days."

"You can ask him if you want to know."

"I'm asking you."

Ellie steps right up to her. "Enough, Darce. This is supposed to be fun for Jyn."

"Where's my brother's fun, huh? He's been taking care of Cari, and working non-stop."

I barely control my temper, but I do it because I don't want to fight this woman. "I take care of Cari while he works, and through the night while he sleeps."

"Which is what you should be doing."

"Agreed, but do not act like I don't care for my child. I had some issues, yes, but I would never leave her uncared for. No matter what you and your brother think."

"Wait, Noah thinks you won't care for Cari?" Jen asks, her eyes wide. "Because that's not what he's told me."

I might as well get this out there, because it's not going to be a secret when I'm cleared to go back to work. No, it's going to be another battle between Noah and me. And probably Darcy, too.

"He wants me to _only_ take care of her. He wants a housewife—well, except for the wife part."

"That little fucker is still on that?" Darcy asks, startling us all.

"He mentioned it to you?" Jen asks.

"When he first found out about the baby, yeah. I told him he was being an ass, and thought he'd changed his mind."

"Afraid not. That's why he's upset."

"Nothing against women who want to stay home with their babies, because my mom didn't work much when I was growing up, and she's amazing. But yeah, I can't see you being happy to just keep house all day," Ellie tells me.

"I'd probably stab myself—or Noah. Just so I could get out of there."

"This is so unlike Noah," Jen says, and I see Darcy flinch a little.

"I guess being a parent can change you. I mean, we all know it changed me."

"Yeah, but you actually had a baby, so chemical imbalance or whatever is understandable," Jade tells me.

"I'm going to kick his ass," Darcy says.

I place a hand on her arm as she prepares to storm past me. "I don't want to cause any trouble with you and Noah."

"My brother is causing his own problems. As his big sister, I need to help him see that."

"Words, not fists please."

"I can't promise anything, Jyn, but I'm glad to know you care about keeping him intact."

It's a little awkward when she leaves, because I can tell Jen wants to follow her, but she doesn't. The dynamic between the three of them—four if you count Brayden—is messed up, and I wish I could do something to help. I don't know what to do, so for now, I need to live in the moment, and enjoy my time with friends.

"Who wants to play poker?"

"I never turn down a game, although the girl genius always wins," Jade says, nodding towards Isa.

"I can't help it. My mind automatically counts," she replies.

"Which is why it's a good thing we make a ton of money, and Jake's also rich. Otherwise, you'd be in a casino, and then get 86'd to the desert," Ellie reminds her.

"Eight miles out, and six feet down," Isa says with a shudder.

"Is that what it means?" I ask, my eyes going wide.

"Yep."

"Damn."

We play poker for a few hours, and as expected, Isa wins. Darcy doesn't come back, and it worries me a little. I don't know what to expect as I take the elevator upstairs, and walk into the apartment.

Noah

"You sent my sister after me."

I told myself I wasn't going to attack Jyn. I promised Darcy I'd be more understanding, and I planned to be. Seeing her walk through the door, smiling like she didn't just throw me under the bus, made those plans go out the window.

"No. She asked, and I tried to get out of answering."

"But you did. You told her I'm some sexist asshole."

"I told her you want me to stay home, and keep house. 'Sexist asshole' never came out of my mouth, although yes, I've thought the words over the past few days."

"This is our business, Jyn."

She looks like she wants to fight, but instead takes a deep breath, and walks past me. Or at least she tries. I'm furious right now, and she's not going to ignore me. I grab her arm, pulling her to a stop.

"You know I lost my sister for a lot of years."

"Yes, I know."

"And yet, you're trying to turn her against me."

"I told you that's not what happened."

"She wanted me to file for custody when you were in the hospital."

She whips her head around, and her mouth falls open. "I would fight you to the death for my daughter."

" _Our_ daughter."

"Yes."

She looks angry, but also vulnerable, and seeing her like that breaks through the red haze of my anger. I still have my hand on her arm, so I pull her to me. She doesn't hug me back when I wrap my arms around her, but she doesn't fight me, either.

"I would never do that."

"Even though I won't stay home."

"Even then."

"I should get some sleep, since we're going to see your mother tomorrow."

I let her go, and watch her move to the hallway. She goes into Cari's room first, checking on our daughter. I'm still standing in the same spot when she moves to our room, giving me a small smile as she does.

I wanted to take Cari to see my mom sooner, but I didn't want to go alone. Darcy would've gone, but Jyn is who I want at my side when I introduce our girl to her grandmother. I'm hoping it'll be a good day, and mom will recognize me, but if it isn't, I'm going to need Jyn there to hold Cari while I try not to break down. I don't visit as often as I should, partly because I feel so freaked out when she doesn't know me, but the doctors tell me it wouldn't matter how often I was there. The disease doesn't work on number of times visited, but that doesn't mean I'm not feeling guilt about my lack of time spent with her.

Feeling guilty is something I have experience with. Darcy ripped me a new one, and I know she's right. I also know I fucked up again by attacking Jyn. I simply keep fucking up, and I have to stop. I _want_ to stop, but it's like I'm powerless to do so. Right now, I need to just go to bed, and pray I can be the nice guy I know I am when I wake up in the morning.

# 12

Noah

I wake up alone the next morning, despite Jyn cuddling into me when I wrapped my arms around her last night. I hate waking up without her, but when I hear the sounds coming from the baby monitor, I know Cari needed her more than I do right now.

"How are my girls?" I ask, walking into the nursery to see Jyn dressing Cari.

"Hungry," Jyn tells me with a smile.

"You or Cari?"

"If it was her, I'd have my tits out right now."

"Oh. Yeah. Do you want me to go get you some food?"

"You could just cook up a couple eggs."

"I don't really know how to do that."

She looks at me like I've grown a second head, before shaking her head and smiling. "I guess I just thought you were too tired after work to cook. Or had too much on your mind."

"Nope. I'm hopeless in a kitchen."

"Jen cooks."

"Yeah, and so does Bray, although he learned that here. For them, it was fun to hang out in the kitchen with the cooks."

"Not for you?"

"I wasn't royal, but I wasn't common either. My situation was such that no one knew how to handle me. The staff was awkward around me, and I didn't want to make their jobs harder by butting in."

"I could teach you to cook."

"Thanks, but I'm really not interested."

"Because you have me around to do it for you."

Yes, but I know better than to say it out loud. "I'm a pro at ordering in."

"You really don't want to learn to make pancakes for Cari on a lazy weekend morning?"

"Well, when you put it that way, I should, huh?"

"You should because life skills are important, but I don't mind guilting you into it by using our daughter."

"Guilt is my middle name these days."

"Bitter much?"

"Just a tad."

"Nothing I do is intended to make you feel guilty. I hope you know that."

"I do."

"Yet, you don't quite believe it, do you?"

"There are things I can't help feeling guilty about. Namely, this crazy urge I have for you to stay home. I'm not that guy, Jyn, or at least I've never thought I was."

"I talked to Matt, and asked him if I could cut back a little."

"You did that for me? Of course you did? See why I feel guilty?"

"I did it for _us_ , Noah. Honestly, while I would never give up my job, and I would go crazy being here all day every day, cutting my days short sounds nice. Or working four days instead of five. He said either one is okay."

"Whatever you want is fine with me. And, if you hate it and need your full-time back, do that. I really want you to be happy."

"I know you do, and that's what makes all this so easy."

"Is it easy? I mean, you seem like you're feeling better, but we haven't really talked about it."

"I'm not perfectly fine, but I'm happy here with you and Cari. I love being a mom, and if I'm unsure at all, I just look at her. I've come to realize it's okay to be scared or nervous."

"It is. I'm scared _and_ nervous sometimes too."

"I just couldn't handle it at first. It was overwhelming. It's not exactly calm now, but the medications I'm on help as well as the mental exercises the doctors worked out for me."

"Darcy and Jenysis have offered to help if you need it. They didn't want to upset you, but they said they'd babysit any time you want or need it."

"I might take them up on it, or I might not. I appreciate knowing I have the option."

"Fair enough."

I watch her pull Cari into her arms, and then she's handing our daughter to me so she can make her own breakfast. I feel like an ass because I was unwilling to learn how to cook something simple for her, but I can fix that. I can fix almost anything, as long as I know we'll come out okay on the other side. There's no way to predict all the obstacles that could come our way, but I can work on what we need now, and that's exactly what I plan to do.

Jyn

Noah's mom lives in a development that looks more like mini-mansions than assisted living apartments. He signs us in at the gate, and drives to one of the closer buildings.

"This is beautiful," I tell him, walking into the foyer.

"Brayden insisted on giving her the best."

I hear a touch of bitterness in his voice, and squeeze his arm. "He loves both Darcy, and you."

"Yes, and he has the money to back it up."

"I don't think Darcy cares about his money, but if he can use it to help those he loves, that's a good thing."

"I know, but it doesn't make it any easier to know he's paying the bills around here because I can't."

"I have some money put away if you want us to pitch in."

"I don't want your money, Jyn. I've already offered to chip in once I get my commission from the C&C building."

"We're together now, Noah, so my money is kind of yours too. I know we're not married, but I want to share what I have with you."

"I appreciate it, and maybe one day I can take it. Just not today."

"Okay."

I let it go because I know it's a sore point with him, although I want to push him on this. Sometimes, when he acts so retro, I almost forget he's been surrounded by Darcy and Jenysis for most of his life. They're so independent, and I can't imagine him growing up thinking he had to take care of either of them. It just boggles my mind that he thinks he has to do everything for me. _Be_ everything. He doesn't, and somehow, I'm going to make him see that.

"My mom's room is this way."

He leads us down a short hallway, stopping before a door on the left. He leans his head on the wall next to it for a moment, and I feel the torment on his face more than see it. Shifting Cari into one arm, I use my other to rub circles on his back.

"No matter what happens in there, it will be okay."

"It won't."

"If she doesn't remember you today, we'll come back tomorrow. And the next day. There will be one day where she'll know who you are and you can tell her who Cari is, and we'll be here that day."

He turns to look at me, eyes shining. "Thank you, Jyn. For all of this...for everything. I've been such a jerk for so much of our time in Vegas together, and you're still here."

"No one's perfect, including me, but we're together, and that means we're here for each other. You've given me time and space to deal with my crazy emotions, and I'm more than willing to do the same for you."

"I love you."

"I love you, too. Now, let's open that door, so I can meet the woman on the other side."

We walk inside, and I see his mother for the first time. She's sitting in a comfy chair, watching Ellen. As we approach, she smiles at both of us.

"Noah! I've missed you."

His steps falter, and then he's rushing to her, falling to the floor next to her chair, and wrapping his arms around her. "I've missed you, too."

"Who is this beautiful woman you've brought with you?"

"This is my girlfriend, Jyn. And, our baby, Carissa."

"Baby? I have a grandchild?"

"Yes, you do."

She holds out her hands, and I take the last few steps to her, and place Cari in her arms. She leans back in the chair, cooing at my daughter, and I have the urge to cry. Noah was so worried, but she remembers today, and is enjoying our girl.

"She's so beautiful."

"Yes, she is," Noah says, as I step back to give them some time.

"Leave it to you to do things backwards. Baby, then wedding. When is the wedding?"

"Oh, well, we haven't talked about that, Mom."

"You don't want to get married, Jyn?" she asks, pinning me with a clear gaze.

"I'd like to, yes, but I'm in no hurry."

"Just as long as you're planning it. Those royals of Noah's would be up in arms if he didn't eventually marry."

"You know that's not true, Mom. I myself am not royal, so there's no pressure on me to marry."

She looks up at him, and smiles. "You've always been my little prince."

"I know."

As she's gazing at him, her face changes. I see it, and move towards her, because I'm not sure what it means.

"Who are you?" she asks Noah.

"My name is Noah," he tells her, swallowing hard.

"You can't have my baby!" she tells him, pulling Cari close to her body.

Oh shit. I don't know what I'm supposed to do. If I try to take Cari, one of them may end up hurt. Noah is rooted in place, and I can't ask him out loud. I look around the room, noticing the nurse call button on the wall next to the bad. Slowly, so as not to draw attention to myself, I walk over and press the button.

Noah, and his mother are still locked in a staring contest as she holds Cari close, protecting her from what she perceives to be a threat.

"That's my baby, Mom," Noah finally says.

"Darcy is mine! You aren't my husband! I'm not your mother! How could I be your mother when I'm only 25?"

"Please give me the baby?"

"No!"

"Is there a problem?" a nurse asks, entering the room.

"He wants my Darcy! He can't have her!"

"Of course not," the nurse says in a soothing voice.

"I want him to leave!"

"I think that's best."

Noah looks like he wants to argue, but he does as she says. I stay back, out of sight. I should probably go too, but I'm not leaving my child behind. The nurse gives me a sad smile, before turning back to Noah's mother.

"It's time for me to take Darcy for some tests."

When she holds out her arms for Cari, Noah's mom hands her over. I breathe a sigh of relief, and slip out the door. The nurse follows right after me, and hands me my daughter.

"I'm sorry, Noah."

"She knew who I was when we went in there, and then...then she didn't."

"It happens. You know that."

"I do, but I've never seen it like that. She thought I'd hurt the baby."

"Because she thought you were a stranger. I know how hard this can be, Noah. You have to treasure the moments where she's lucid, and resign yourself to having to work through the other times."

"I know, but it's not as easy as it sounds."

"I'd like to tell you it gets easier, but it doesn't. You just keep doing the best you can, and know she loves you. When she remembers you and Darcy, you're both all she can talk about."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome. And congratulations on your beautiful girl."

She walks away, and I place my hand on his arm. "Noah."

"Not now, Jyn. I-I can't talk now."

My heart breaks for him as he moves down the hall in front of us. He has the car started as I'm buckling Cari in, and as soon as I'm in, he takes off. He doesn't say one word to me as we drive home, and I don't know how to help him, or if he even wants me help. I just know I have to do something.

# 13

Jyn

I'm outside this door, but I still haven't knocked. I don't _want_ to knock, but I know I have to. Noah needs me to, and I'm a strong woman. I can do this.

"Are you going to stand out here all day?" Darcy asks, swinging the door open.

"Maybe."

"I'm not evil, you know."

"She is! She just hides it well," Brayden yells from behind her.

"Shut it, Crown!"

"Just being honest."

"Is this a bad time?" I manage to ask.

"No."

"Can I come in?"

"Does Noah know you're here?"

"Nope."

"The plot thickens," she says, stepping back and gesturing for me to step inside.

"We took Cari to see your mom today."

The smug smile drops from her face. "What happened?"

"She recognized Noah, and then all of a sudden, she didn't. She thought the baby was you, and he was trying to steal you."

"God, no."

"He's a mess, Darcy, and I don't know how to help him. He hasn't let go of Cari, and it's almost time for her to eat. But, I don't want to take her from him. He won't let me comfort him. Please help."

"Let's go."

"I'll bring dinner over once it's done since the recipe I made could feed an army," Brayden tells her, coming out of the kitchen to hug her. "It's going to be okay, Cat."

"He might need you more than me."

"I'll be there if he does."

"Thank you both," I tell them.

Darcy reaches for my hand, and squeezes it. We hold hands through the hallway, and down in the elevator. When we get to my apartment, she squares her shoulders, and uses her other hand to open the door.

"Darce? What are you doing here?"

"Can't I just drop in to see my niece?"

"Oh yeah. Sure," he tells her, and then sees me behind her. "Or not."

"I didn't know what to do," I tell him, hating the way he's looking at me.

"I guess I should be happy my heartache is bringing the two of you together."

"Really, Noah? I didn't know you liked to play the pity card so well."

"Yeah well, we both know you don't really know me, Darce."

She opens and closes her mouth a few times, trying to come up with a reply. For a moment, I think she might leave, and I wouldn't blame her one bit if she did. Instead, she blows out a breath, and looks him in the eye.

"I thought we were past this, but apparently, you're still holding onto your anger at me leaving you. Regardless, you need me right now, and I would like to be here for you. No one else understands what you went through today."

"I'm sorry," he tells her, standing up, and pulling her into a hug. "Please stay."

"I'll feed Cari, and put her down for a nap," I say, moving to the carrier on the couch.

Noah was rocking her when we walked in, but I can tell she's getting ready to yell. She hasn't been fed for a couple of hours, and she might need to be changed, too.

Darcy gives me a smile as I walk out of the room, but Noah won't look at me. I'm not sorry I brought Darcy here, because he needs to talk to someone. If he's going to be mad at me now, so be it.

Once we're in her room with the door closed, I set her carrier next to the rocking chair, and pick her up. She's wet, so changing her is my first priority. Feeding comes next, and after a good burp, I rock her to sleep. Putting her in her crib, I finally let myself feel the exhaustion I've been keeping at bay, and curl up on the chair for my own nap.

I don't know how long I'm asleep for, but I come awake to soft kisses all over my face. "Hey, beautiful. Bray brought over dinner if you're hungry."

"I could eat."

"I'll grab Cari if you want to wash up."

"Okay."

I stretch my body, and twist my head back and forth to get the crick out of my neck. I'm almost out of the room when his voice stops me. "Thank you, Jyn."

"You're welcome."

I splash some water on my face, and straighten out my ponytail, before joining everyone in the dining room. The lasagna on the table looks delicious, and my stomach rumbles a little just from the smell.

"Thanks for bringing dinner, Brayden."

"My pleasure."

Noah stands, and holds out the chair next to his for me. As I sit, he leans down, and places a kiss on the top of my head. It's sweet and tender, and gives me hope we'll be okay. I want him to be okay, but I also want that for _us._

Noah

Darcy and I had a talk I needed to have with her. We've talked about her leaving, and hiding our mother from the man who wanted to destroy us all, but I've never been totally honest with her. She hasn't been honest, either. Both of us have been hurting for years, but trying to spare each other the pain we know our words would cause.

Today was about being honest, and wounding each other, then putting ourselves back together. She now understands how angry and confused I was to lose my family, and be thrust into a royal household I knew nothing about. And I know how jealous she still is of the time Bray and Jen had with me while she was trying to save us all. We both sacrificed so much, and today we realized holding on to hurt and anger was going to keep us from truly being happy in the future. We have the present, and the future; that's what's important.

Bray, Darcy, and I joke with each other throughout dinner, but Jyn is quiet. She speaks when spoken to, and she cleans her plate, but I know she's feeling left out.

"I can't wait to show you the island, Jyn."

"I'm sure it's beautiful."

"It really is," Darcy agrees. "And the people are so wonderful."

"Sounds great."

"I rented an apartment for us," I tell her.

"You don't have a house there?"

"No. I was using Jen's, but she'll want to stay there with Wayne. I didn't think you'd want to stay at the castle, but if you do, there's room."

"It's up to you."

"We've been telling too many inside jokes tonight, haven't we?" Bray asks, and I shoot him a grateful smile.

"A little, maybe."

"Why didn't you tell us to shut up?" Darcy asks her.

"That wouldn't exactly be polite."

"You don't need to be polite around family."

"Around mine, I do."

"Are they coming for the Christening? I'm sorry Mari had something come up, and couldn't be here for Cari's birth."

It was a weird situation, because I know Mari was excited to come back for the birth, and all Jyn would tell me is that she an obligation she couldn't get out of. That, and her parents were also obligated to be somewhere else. I have so many questions, but I don't feel comfortable asking her about them. I _should_ , but I don't.

"Um, no. I didn't invite them."

"Even Mari?"

"If Mari came, my parents would come as well, and I'm not ready to see them."

"Were they abusive?" Darcy asks, and I love seeing her angry on Jyn's behalf.

"Not physically, but they tried to make me into something I don't want to be. When they realized I wouldn't give in, they cut off all contact—and support. Mari was allowed to still talk to me, but I don't think that's the case any longer."

"Allowed?"

"Yes."

"Your family is wealthy?" Bray asks her.

"Extremely."

"You've never told me any of this," I remind her.

"There's no point, as I won't change my mind about what they want, and they won't accept me unless I do."

"They wouldn't even want to see Cari?"

"Oh, they would, but only to try and mold her into what they couldn't make me become."

"You know I'm here to protect both of you. No one's going to force you to do anything you don't want to do."

"I know, and I appreciate it."

Darcy and Bray leave soon after. Jyn feeds Cari again, and I change her, and put her down again. I'm hoping dinner wiped her out a little, but if not, I'll at least have a couple of hours with her mother.

"I stopped to see Kenny when I was at C&C to meet with Matt yesterday," I tell her, moving her ponytail aside so I can nibble on her neck as she picks out a nightgown from her dresser.

"About?"

"What I could safely do to you while we wait for it to be okay for me to be inside of you again."

"Oh?"

"Let me show you."

I toss her nightgown to the floor, and pick her up. Once she's laid out on the bed, I drink in the sight of her for just a moment. We've both been so busy with adjusting to our new life, and I haven't just _looked_ at her like this in a long time.

"You're make me self-conscious."

"You're beautiful, and I've neglected you."

Before she can say another word, I brace myself on my forearms over her, and kiss her until we're both breathless. I trail my mouth over her jaw, and down to her neck, nudging aside her t-shirt to suck on her shoulder.

"Noah," she breathes out, as I suck harder, leaving a mark.

"Let me take care of you tonight."

She nods, and I sit back so I can undress her. I look at her full breasts, and resist the urge to suck on her enlarged nipples. I'm not into having a mouthful of breast milk, so I settle for kissing all around the nipples, before moving lower down her body.

She's been doing some Kendrick approved exercises, but her stomach is still slightly rounded, and I love it. I kiss across it, from one side to another as she arches under me.

Pausing with my mouth above where she's now neatly shaved, I inhale the scent of her arousal, and then I dive in. I want to be slow and romantic, but I can't. I lick and suck at her like a man who's been starved for over a month, because that's exactly what I am. I focus on her clit, because I know she's still tender lower, but I kiss and lick lightly at her opening as well.

It doesn't take long to bring her to the edge, and I suck a little harder, taking her over. She turns her face into a pillow, and bites down to muffle her scream. I want to hear my name on her lips, but I know this will all be over if we wake up Cari. I work her through the orgasm and into another, before she pulls my head off her, and slides down to kiss me.

"That was magnificent."

"I've missed the taste of you, and how you look when I make you come."

"Your turn," she says, reaching for my jeans.

"No. You don't have to."

"Oh, believe me, I want to. I love having you in my mouth, but I didn't know how to ask."

"Ask? You don't have to ask to do that."

"Now that we're on the same page, get those jeans off."

The next two hours are spent pleasuring each other over and over again, culminating in an epic shower session. I can't wait for the green light to be able to make love to Jyn, but this is definitely not a bad consolation prize. We've been through so much in such a short time, and we both needed a night of pleasure.

# 14

Noah

I'm sweating right now, and on the verge of a panic attack. I haven't been home to Cyndryann since Wayne proposed to Jen almost a year ago. I stayed after the woman I thought I loved betrayed me, but once Jen chose a life away from here, I left too. I was tired of the pitying looks from casual friends, and the catty remarks from Bray's mom. Steve keeps her in line, but that just makes me feel even worse about everything.

I don't want the help, or the pity. I don't want to be thought of as a free-loader, or a placeholder for something—or someone—better. I just want to be _me_. I want people to look at me in admiration, because I've accomplished something, and not because my best friend is destined to be king. I was dying inside when I left this island, and now, even though I can breathe again, I'm scared to be back. Scared of feeling like the boy who doesn't belong all over again.

"Noah, you're scaring me," Jyn tells me, pulling me from my thoughts.

I look down to see her hand white from where I'm clutching it so hard. "Oh fuck, I'm sorry."

I massage her hand in both of mine, rubbing until I see the color coming back into it. She gives me a smile, and leans over to kiss me on the cheek.

"I'm here with you."

"I can't tell you how thankful I am for that."

"Whatever happens here, we're a team."

"Always."

She takes my hand again, and this time I keep myself in the moment, making sure not to hurt her again. As we step off the plane, we're a united front; me, Jyn, and Cari. We're after Jen, Wayne, Bray, and Darcy, but for once, I don't feel less than them. They're here for _me_ , and I can't pretend it doesn't make me happy.

On the ground, we all split up. Darcy and Bray walk to the castle, and Jen and Wayne get into an SUV to head to her beach house. I wanted to walk to the apartment with Jyn and Cari, but it's not hard to navigate the cobblestones with luggage, and I didn't want to accept any special treatment. Jyn knows what to expect when we have to be at the castle, but it's not fair to impose my life on her in any other ways.

I get us loaded into my rental car, making sure Cari's car seat is secure, and then we're on our way. The drive is short, but I still point out my favorite park, and some restaurants I love and want to take Jyn to. Upon arriving, we're met by the couple who owns the place, and given the keys.

"It's so pretty here," Jyn says, smiling at me as she looks around the neighborhood.

"The entire island is beautiful."

"I can't wait to see it."

I kiss her, because she looks so happy, and I know I'm at least part of the reason for the smile on her face. I have demons here that are sure to come out, but right now, I want to focus on the woman—and the baby girl—who make everything feel right for me.

Cari settles right down to sleep once Jyn places her in the bassinet we brought with us, and we decide to sit on our little balcony to look out over the village. It's peaceful, and just comfortable to sit here with her like this. Neither one of us is trying to impress the other, or be seen in a certain way, because we're past all that.

"Are you nervous about tomorrow?" I ask, knowing royal protocol can be overwhelming.

"No. The packets you gave me were pretty straight-forward."

"Those are nothing. When Darcy and Bray have a baby, they'll have about ten times more protocols."

"I've met Jen's dad when he's come to C&C a couple of times, and he seems like a great guy."

"Steve's the best, but although he's King, he still answers to Parliament. Granted, they've loosened up a lot in the last few years, but they have final say in many things."

"Unwed mothers can't be high on the list of things they like."

"No, but since I'm not an actual royal, they're tolerating us both."

"Have they treated you badly in the past?"

"Not exactly. Most are friendly, but they all look down on me. Some are jealous of me growing up in the castle, and some just think I'm not good enough for the life I've lived. When the truth about my dad and Darcy came out, they warmed up, acknowledging the sacrifices my family has made for this island."

"Well, if anyone gives you any trouble, they'll have to answer to me."

"They're too proper to be outright rude to me."

"I don't like any kind of rude, Noah. I mean it. I am so not afraid of causing an international incident."

"Good to know."

"The guys will be getting in later, and they'll stand with me. Especially because they all love Darcy too."

"I'm not sure how I feel about the original Studkateers being so close to my baby mama."

She slaps my arm. "You know you have nothing to worry about with any of them. Even if they weren't so happily married, I think of them like brothers."

"I know."

"Then why are you bringing it up?" she asks with a smirk.

"Because they're hotter than me," I mumble.

"You did not just say that."

Before I can confirm or deny, she climbs onto my lap, and kisses me hard. Her hands work their way under my shirt, and I groan into her mouth when her nails scrape my abs.

"Maybe I should put myself down more often," I joke.

"Or maybe I need to show you how much I want you now that Kenny's cleared me for all the fun we've been missing."

"He cleared you?"

"Yep. Surprise!"

I growl into her mouth as I stand with her in my arms. My final destination is our bedroom, but I manage to bump into a few things on my way there. It doesn't dim the heat arcing between us one bit. I feel like I've been waiting six years and not six weeks for this moment, and nothing's going to stop it. Well, nothing but a baby girl waking up in an unfamiliar room and crying. Cock-blocked by my kid for the first—and probably not the last—time.

Jyn

I shouldn't be laughing right now, but I can't help it. Poor Noah looked like he just lost his favorite toy when Cari started crying. Not that I consider myself just a toy to play with, but it was more than a little flattering to see him look so defeated. I sent him to the shower to jerk off, because I know it's going to take a little time to calm our girl down, and I could tell he was in pain.

Cari just wants some comfort, as this place doesn't look or smell like home. Or at least that's what I think. Who knows what a tiny baby can see or smell? It could be just jet lag, or wanting a hug. Whatever it is, she's cuddled up into my neck, sucking on her pacifier like her life depends on it.

"Do you want me to take over, so you can...you know?" Noah asks, pushing his wet hair back from his face as he walks into the living room.

"No, I'm good."

"Really?"

"Yes, really. I can wait until later, when Cari's asleep and you have time to ravage me like we both want you to."

"Are you trying to make me take another shower?"

"No," I tell him with a laugh. "Just being honest."

"Your honesty is one of the things I love most about you. Growing up around so many fake people has left me a little jaded."

"Brayden and Jenysis don't seem fake."

"They aren't, but everyone who wanted to get close to them was. It's almost like a sport to some people to see who they can hurt and deceive, just to get a few moments alone with a royal."

"I take it I'm going to be meeting some of these people over the next few days."

"Maybe," he says with a shrug. "I'm not important enough for many of them to show their face."

"Good, because I don't want to have to punch someone while wearing a pretty dress."

"Do you mind dressing up? I can't really do anything about it if you don't, but I'm sorry."

"You don't remember me wearing dresses all over Europe?"

"I remember every article of clothing I've ever seen you in, but you were trying to impress me back then."

"Impress you? I'm pretty sure it was _you_ chasing _me_ in Amsterdam."

"Can you blame me after seeing you in your bra and panties?"

"Not really, no."

We're both laughing now, and it feels wonderful. We've had some hurdles, and I know there are more to come, because I've still got a secret I'm keeping from him, but right in this moment, I'm not worrying about anything other than keeping that smile on his face.

"Do you want to walk down the street for dinner?"

"I'd love to. Can you get Cari dressed while I change?"

He reaches for her, and takes my hand to kiss it as I walk by. Damn charmer! Taking a cue from the button-down and dress pants he changed in to after his shower, I pull a specific dress from my garment bag.

It's white with a fitted top, and a full skirt that reaches my knees. Dark blue lace covers the top, and most of the skirt, making me feel like a princess from a provincial village. I slip on navy blue flats, because stumbling on a cobblestone is not pretty, and put my hair up in a twist.

I spin back and forth in front of the mirror a few times, liking what I see. I'm turning to get my purse when Noah's arms slide around me.

"You look stunning."

"Why, thank you."

"I think I did a good job with Cari, but I'm not sure."

"You are so damn adorable when you get that unsure look on your face."

"I'm not adorable, I'm sexy and manly."

"Yes, and also adorable. Embrace the cuteness, Noah."

"You're getting a spanking later."

"I certainly hope so."

"Go look at our girl, because we need dinner before I take you all night long."

"Tease."

"Only a tease if I don't follow through."

"True. Take me to our daughter."

Noah leans over to pick Cari up when we enter her room, and I swear my just-healed ovaries explode over the sight in front of me. Cari is in a beautiful purple dress with rosettes covering the sleeves and skirt. There's a big rose at the waist, matching the one on the headband Noah put on her dark red hair. Little black patent shoes complete her perfect look.

"Well?"

"She looks beautiful."

"Yeah?"

"Yes. I couldn't have done any better."

"Have I mentioned I'm going to be the most envied man on the island tonight when I'm seen with the two most beautiful women on Earth?"

"Flattery's going to get you laid later, but right now, I need some good food."

He holds out his arm for me. "Only the best for you."

# 15

Jyn

The restaurant we walk to looks beautiful from the outside, with flowers and vines surrounding the door. We park the stroller next to a couple others already outside, with Noah assuring me no one will take it. Inside, the smells nearly make me pass out.

"After this meal, I may need you to push me in the stroller while carrying Cari."

"I can do that."

"You're too good to me," I tell him, giving him a soft kiss on the lips.

"Not possible."

The hostess takes us to a window table on the second floor, overlooking Noah's favorite park. She's friendly, but I get the feeling she's not happy we're here. I wait until she walks away to mention it.

"What's the deal with her?"

"I couldn't help her land a future king."

"You slept with her?"

"Yes, and just so you remember, this is a small island, so you're likely to run into a few more of my previous lovers."

"You say that like it's not a big deal."

"It really isn't. I wasn't a saint before I met you."

"You're not really a saint now, either."

"True, but I wouldn't ever cheat on you."

"Same."

"Well isn't this sweet?" a woman who looks like she stepped off a runway says, coming to stand next to our table.

She has brown hair that's expertly curled, perfect makeup, and an elegantly tight dress. If I wasn't surrounded by some of the most beautiful women in the world every day, I might feel a little intimidated. Instead, I give her a bright smile.

"Can we help you with something?"

Ignoring me, she turns to Noah. "Have you forgotten your manners, Noah? A gentleman stands when a lady approaches his table."

"The only lady at this table is already sitting."

Okay, then. This woman is more than a past fling—or lover. And right now, she looks like she might stab Noah. Not going to happen on my watch.

"We're trying to have a quiet family dinner, so I'd appreciate you walking away right now."

"He's got no sway with the palace. You know that, right? He's not even the spare."

"Royalty holds no interest for me. Noah is one of the best men I know, and I wouldn't want anyone else to be my daughter's father."

"Commoner."

"Jesus, Fae. Can you just try to act like a decent human being?"

"I've had just about enough of your insults!"

"Then walk away, because the last time I saw you, you were under an Earl, and if I remember correctly, he was old enough to be your father. And, said act was taking place in _my_ bed. So, if you're expecting me to be happy to see you, you're obviously more delusional than I already thought you to be."

What the hell? This woman is one ugly piece of work. No matter how beautiful she is on the outside.

"The bed belongs to Jenysis, not you."

This is just too much. "I cannot believe you actually had the nerve to walk over here."

"I didn't get an invite to the Christening tomorrow."

"You can't be serious."

"I was important to you, Noah."

Okay, we're done here. "We don't know each other, Fae, so let me make something clear to you. I work in security, and I know how to use every type of fight technique as well as most weapons known to man. Right now, I am holding onto my temper by a very thin thread. I suggest you move on before that thread breaks, and so does every bone in your beautiful face."

"You dare threaten me?"

"To protect my family, yes."

She looks between Noah, Cari, and I. I'm not sure what she's going to decide, but I'm ready for this to go any way it has to. After a few tense moments, she tosses her hair, and walks away.

"I'm sorry," Noah tells me, looking down at his plate.

"You have nothing to apologize for."

"I should've told you about Fae. We were together for almost two years when she cheated. I thought...I thought I'd marry her one day."

"We all have secrets that aren't easy to share."

"Do you have any I should know about?"

"Yes. One."

"You can tell me anything."

"My heart believes that, but my head is having trouble allowing me to say the words. Soon, though. I promise."

"I'll be here when you're ready."

"Thanks for understanding."

"Right back at you, beautiful."

The rest of our dinner is uneventful, and the food is delicious. When we walk outside, a small crowd has gathered, and we happily show off Cari until she starts to fuss. I know she's hungry, and while I don't feel embarrassed about breastfeeding in public, my dress isn't really designed for it. Noah effortlessly works the crowd, and gets us moving. He may not be a royal, but there's no doubt nurture has won out over nature where his charm is concerned.

Noah

Things could've gone so much worse tonight. I was hoping for better, but Fae showed up, hoping to get her way, and she left without what she wanted. As angry as I am at her, if it'd been just me and Cari she encountered, I may have put her on the guest list just to get her to leave. As it was, I sat there like a robot while Jyn took care of things.

Funny thing is, it didn't really bother me to let her handle Fae. For all my talk of wanting a housewife, I also want a badass woman by my side. I am such a mess of contradictions.

"Penny for your thoughts, or whatever currency we use here."

"Truth?"

"It's always preferable."

Why not? She's already told me what an ass I am for wanting her to stay home. "So, you know I have this crazy idea about you staying home."

"Unfortunately, I do."

"It's weird that I also loved you sticking up for me tonight, then, isn't it?"

"Kind of, yeah."

"You didn't call me an ass this time."

"Listen, Noah. I don't mind cooking and cleaning as long as I'm not the only one doing it. I already told you I'll cut back at work, and I want us to share the work at home, the expenses, and everything else. I'll stick up for you, and you'll stick up for me when I need it."

I don't tell her I've already talked to our friend, Gavin, who owns a cooking school, about taking some lessons. I may completely suck at it, but I want to try. Bray almost burned down his school, but now he's safely feeding Darcy, so I think there's hope for me. Maybe.

"I'm going to try. Even when living alone, I had housekeepers who came in to clean up after me, and it's been years since I did any of that myself."

"We can hire a housekeeper, and I don't mind if you order in when it's your turn for dinner. I just want to see you trying to make this work. I don't want to be the only one sacrificing things."

"I promise you won't be the only one. Hiring a housekeeper sounds brilliant, if you're sure you're okay with it."

"I'm sure. There are ones already screened to work in the apartments."

"Is it sexist to ask you to hire one? I'll do it if you want."

She rolls her eyes at me. "I can hire her or him."

"Thanks. Things are going to be moving ahead with the C&C building once we get back, and I want to spend any free time I have with you and Cari."

"Speaking of free time, I think she's finally asleep enough to put her in her bassinet," she says, nodding down to where Cari's asleep in her arms.

"I'll meet you in our room."

"Will you now?"

"Yep. I'll be the naked guy with the massive hard-on, lounging on the bed."

"And I'll be the naked woman looking to ride that massiveness."

I want to throw her against the wall right here and now, but there's a baby in her arms, and I'm not a Neanderthal. Okay, well, maybe I am, but not in front of my daughter.

When Jyn sashays into the room with no clothes on, I force myself to stay on the bed and wait for her. It's our first time since she had Cari, and I want her to take the lead. If it hurts, or she's still too sore, I want her to stop us both. While I believe I'd stop things if I needed to, in the state I'm in right now, I'd take her hard, and it might be too late to stop the pain for her. I definitely plan to make slow, sweet love to her later tonight, but right now I'm on the razor's edge where she's concerned.

"You look more nervous than I feel," she says as she climbs over me.

"Promise you'll stop if it hurts you."

"It's probably going to hurt a little, but I'm not a virgin, Noah. I know it'll get better once I'm used to you again."

"Bring your mouth over here, and kiss me."

She leans over, and I thread my hand in her sleek, black hair, holding her head at the perfect angle. I kiss her over and over again, in all different ways. Soft and sweet swipes against her lips. Rough and demanding presses of lips, tongues, and teeth. Nibbles and licks all combining to make us both ready to combust.

Only after I know she's ready do I line my cock up to her pussy, and press slowly inside of her. It feels so good to be back inside of her, and I have to force myself to go slow, inch by inch. Once I'm fully inside of her warm channel, and our hips are meeting, I close my eyes and just feel how amazing it is.

"You okay?"

"Better than okay, Noah."

Thank God. When she starts to move, I meet her with thrusts of my hips. We're both a little wild as we kiss and fuck. It's so erotic, and when she arches her back a few minutes later, I know we're going to come together.

Her nails dig into my shoulders, and I lick her nipples, because they're right in front of my mouth, and I need to feel them, even if I can't suck. Her pussy clamps down on my cock as she shudders above me, finding her release. I hold out until she's almost done, and then I grab her hips, and go. I'm pounding into her from below, and yelling out her name as she screams out a second orgasm.

It's everything. _Jyn_ is everything. I love her, and know without a doubt I want her forever. There's a ring in the castle that belongs to me, and I'm going to ask Steve to retrieve it for me tomorrow. It may seem cliched to propose on the grounds of a castle, but I can't wait any longer to ask Jyn to be my wife.

As I watch her cuddle into me, and fall asleep, I know this is the right decision. And the best one I've ever made in my life. Everything I've ever wanted is finally coming together for me, and it revolves around this woman, and the little girl in the other room who miraculously slept through what just went down in here. Life doesn't get much better than this.

# 16

Noah

While Jyn gets ready in another part of the castle, I meet with Steve. He's been the closest thing to a father I've had, and I'm glad to be here with him, although I wish my mother was here with us, too. She's been having more episodes of forgetting, and her doctors didn't feel comfortable releasing her for a trip across the ocean. I understand it, but it still makes this all bittersweet.

"Noah, I've missed you," Steve tells me, hugging me tightly once we're alone.

"I've missed you too."

"Not Cyndryann, though."

"No," I admit.

"I always understood how hard all of this was for you."

"Because you never thought you'd be King."

"Yes. I was the spare to the heir for most of my life. I accepted it, but it didn't make things easier. Girls who tried to use me to get near my brother—and then my nephew, and adults who angled for their own invites. It's not an easy life, but it's one neither of us was given a choice in."

"But now you're King of Cyndryann, and forging your own path."

"Another thing I have to thank your family for."

"I suppose."

"You think this building for Matt Corrigan will change things for you."

It's not posed as a question, but I know he's asking and not telling me. "Yes. It will be something of my own. I've earned it through hard work, and not because my sister, or your family, handed it to me."

"My family has always thought of you as part of ours, and not an outsider. You never had to earn your place here, because you always _belonged_ here with us."

"Brayden's mother wouldn't agree."

"Yes, well, there's not much I agree with her on, and I'm afraid it's going to always be her problem to deal with."

"Is she still trying to get you to marry her?"

"Oh yes. Even when my previous lover was sitting across the breakfast table from her."

"Wow."

"That's one word for it."

"Speaking of marriage...I was wondering if I could get my ring from you."

"The ring you designed?"

"Yes."

Steve gave Darcy and I some stones my father kept here in the royal vaults. She chose emeralds, and made them into a necklace. I made the sapphires I claimed into a gorgeous ring. I don't even know if it will fit Jyn, but we can have it sized if it doesn't.

"I haven't even formally met Jyn yet. I met her at the C&C building, but that was just in passing as I didn't realize she was connected to you."

"I didn't realize releasing my ring to me held conditions."

"You know it doesn't; I was simply making an observation."

"Noted."

"I'll grab it for you now."

"Steve, wait. I don't mean to be an ass."

"But this is something you don't want any approval for. I understand, Noah. All I ask is that I receive an invite to the wedding. Please."

"You don't have to ask."

"Thank you."

I could walk to the vault with him, but I need a few minutes alone. I just passive aggressively lashed out as someone who has only ever shown me love and kindness. My issues with royalty, and all it entails, are deeper than I thought, and when we get back to Vegas, I'm going to make an appointment to see someone. I need to talk to a professional, because Jyn won't get it, and I'm feeling too raw to talk to Darcy, Bray, or Jen about it.

My time here in the castle is pretty much over, but I want Cari to know my adopted country. The people here are wonderful, the parks and beaches are beautiful, and it's the perfect place to come and escape the hustle and bustle of Vegas. Even with living out in the suburbs, and not near the Strip, the city is still so far removed from this place I love, and I know Bray and Jen feel it too. We've all lived in big cities, but Cyndryann calls us back, if only for a visit.

"Here you are, Noah," Steve says, handing me the small velvet box when he enters the room once again. "I know you want to do this all on your own, but if you need help, please ask. The staff, and I, are at your service."

"You've already done so much with the Christening."

"I think of Carissa as my first grandchild, even if it isn't official. Jen is in no hurry to become a mother."

"No, she definitely isn't, but she'll be a great aunt."

"That she will."

He looks troubled, which tells me Bray talked to him about what's going on with him and Darcy. As he's given up the crown, he's not required to talk to Steve about their choices, but as a beloved nephew, there's no one else he'd go to for advice.

"Whatever happens, I just want Darcy to be happy."

"As do I. She risked her life to save us, and whatever decision she comes to with Brayden will be honored by the monarchy."

"Unless Parliament disagrees."

"No. On this I will never budge."

"A fight to the death?" I jokingly ask.

"For you sister? Yes. Every time."

The crazy thing is, I know he means it. He would really fight some crazy member of Parliament to make them accept an adopted child for her and Bray. And yeah, I know without a doubt, he'd probably do the same for me. He's not saying it now, but he'd protect me from any possible threat. Not just because of what my dad and Darcy sacrificed, but because he loves me as I love him. We're family without blood, which is sometimes stronger—and more loyal.

Jyn

I contemplated wearing blue again today, because I like breaking stereotypes, but when pressed by Darcy and Jenysis, I admitted I love the pink dress I brought. It's a simple pink t-shirt dress, except it has an overlay of sheer fabric covered in giant sequins. The bottom skims the top of my thighs, but the overlay hits my knees. So yeah, it's a little sexy, a lot sparkly, and comfortable at the same time. Pretty close to perfect, if you ask me.

Cari is dressed more traditionally, in a long gown, with an even longer lace overlay. She looks like a little princess, and if I didn't love her so much, I'd be ripping the dress off her cute little body. I take a few deep breaths, and remind myself that although she looks the part, she is not actually a princess. She will not have to live up to expectations a crown would place on her.

When she's older, she can dress as Mulan, Moana, Leia, Belle, Wonder Woman, or even Cinderella, but that will be her choice. She will choose the princess she looks up to. The princess she will aspire to be like. It may also be Princess Jenysis or Princess Darcy, but while she may be like them, she will never _be_ them. I will make sure of that.

I'm still feeling a little shaky as we walk out to meet up with the men. Darcy is carrying Cari, which is a good thing as I stumble when I take in the scene in front of me. This cannot be happening, although I know it is. My worlds have collided, and nothing will ever be the same again.

"Jyn?" Noah says my name like a question, and the confusion on his face breaks my heart.

"The Crown Princess of Linzia claims she is your mother." I'm not familiar with Steve yet, but I know it's him who's speaking to me right now, even if I'm having trouble focusing.

"Yes."

"I cannot believe you thought it would be acceptable to Christen your child here."

I meet my mother's eyes, but as usual, I don't back down from the disappointment in them. "As I have refused my crown, my child has no place with you."

"Nonsense! When she is eighteen, she will be posed with the same choice you were given. I pray she will choose wisely, and not foolishly, as you did."

"I chose myself."

"As royals, we do not have that choice."

" _Our_ royals do."

"It is merely a formality."

"I didn't see it that way."

"Because you were misled," she says, gesturing behind her to where Mari is standing.

"You kept her from me when I had my child."

"She did not want to be with you."

"That is a lie," Mari says, and I catch my mother's hand as it moves to slap her.

She is well within her right to slap her subject, but I will not allow it while I'm still standing here, breathing. There is no reasoning with my mother when she doesn't get her way, but I have to try anyway.

"She is your sister!"

"And she took my child from me."

"No, Mother. You did that all on your own."

"You will let me strike her, or others will take her punishment."

"No," Mari says. "Let her hit me, Jyn."

I let go of her hand, casting my eyes to the ground. That's not what my mother wants, and she must always get what she wants. "You will watch, or I will continue to strike her until you do."

"Will you not speak on Mari's behalf, Father?" I ask the man who stands silent next to my mother, knowing he will not intervene, but wishing he would.

"You look like me, my beautiful Jyn, and yet, you disgrace me by your presence here."

My knees buckle, and if Jenysis wasn't at my back to catch me, I'd fall to the ground. My father fell in love with my mother when he came to her small kingdom on a trip with friends. They married in secret, because my mother was already second in line for the throne, and she was to marry a prince. I grew up hearing the romance of it all, and being taught the customs of both a European princess, and an Asian commoner. I no longer recognize the parents who raised me, and that is the saddest part of all of this.

I square my shoulders, and stand tall as I watch my mother slap Mari. It's a power move, and nothing more, but she will never again have any power over me. All I feel is disgust.

"You may stay for the ceremony if King Steven allows it, but you will not touch my daughter."

"Mari will not be in the chapel unless I can hold the baby."

I do not want this woman's hands on my child, but having Mari so close without her being there is not something I think I could handle. Noah speaks for the first time, answering for both of us.

"You may hold Cari, with me at your side. You will not take a step with her in your arms, and you will only speak positively in her presence. My child will not be a pawn in this war you're waging."

"A royal hanger-on will not command me."

Steve looks ready to lash out himself, but he composes himself before speaking. "The King of this island is commanding you. You will do whatever Noah and Jyn tell you to do, or you will find yourself in my dungeon."

"How dare you?"

"Very easily, as my army is much larger than yours, and I have some very powerful friends."

He nods behind me, and I turn to see Matt and Reina. I knew they arrived earlier with Noah, Kali, Jake, Isa, Nate, Jade, Aiden, and Ellie. The others are probably in the chapel already, but I'm thankful to see these two, who know my situation.

"I do not fear you, Reina Corrigan."

"I could say the same for you."

There is no way my mother is going to win the battle she's trying to wage here, and we all know it. With a final tilt of her head, she acknowledges this, and moves her entourage to the chapel. Mari squeezes my hand as she walks by, and I wish I could pull her into a hug, but I know it will only result in further punishment for her, so I hold back.

"When you said you had a secret, I never imagined this," Noah tells me, and I can feel the pain in his words.

"I'll explain everything after the Christening."

"Save it. There is nothing else I need to know except how you want to work out custody of Cari."

"What? Noah, please let me explain."

"No."

"You don't want to build my building, Noah? Is that what you're saying here?" Matt asks him.

"Stop it, Matt! You are not going to take that from him."

"We all need to take a moment here, and regroup. Today is Carissa's day, and as we're all adults, we can smile our way through this for her. After, you can discuss and threaten all you want, but not now," Steve reminds us.

The Christening is beautiful, and we all pretend to be one happy family. Cari doesn't cry, and my mother doesn't try to do anything more than hold her granddaughter. She doesn't throw a fit when Mari holds her longer, and Noah doesn't look at me like I'm the monster he thinks I am. It's a beautiful day, full of love—even if it's all just an act.

# 17

Noah

"How did this happen, Darce? How did I go from escaping the stigma of living with a royal family to falling in love with a royal?"

"From what was said, it sounds like she's not a royal right now."

"That was crazy, right? I'm not imagining how that went down."

"It was full-on nuts. Especially when the old girl slapped her sister for speaking up. I'm not surprised Jyn would reject that."

"She told me she had a secret, but how would I have ever guessed it was something like this? She knows how I feel about royalty. I talked to her about living in a royal household, and she never said one word about understanding. She purposely kept this all from me."

"Maybe because she knew you might not be able to accept her background."

"She didn't give me a choice! I don't have any choice now, either. I'm stuck with yet another royal family. I just can't escape this life, can I?"

"Again, she's not royal. There's a lot none of us know, although Steve's looking into her country, and what exactly happened with Jyn. I'd rather hear it all from her, but I know you don't want to."

"You really think it's going to make me feel better to hear her talk about being royal?"

"Could it make you feel any worse at this point?"

"Honestly? No."

"I'm going to open the door, and let her in, okay?"

"Yeah. I want to talk to her alone, though."

"You're sure?"

"Not really, but I know it's the right thing to do."

While Darcy opens the door, I clutch the velvet box in my pocket. Today was supposed to be one of the best of my life, but it's turned out to be one of the worst. How did this even happen?

"Hi," Jyn says, walking into the room.

She's still in her dress from the Christening, but her hair's down now, and her makeup looks ruined. She's still the most beautiful woman I've ever seen in my life, which makes my heart hurt even more.

"Just say what you need to say, so we can figure things out."

"My country is small, and unknown by most of the world. It's a Matriarchy; only women can rule, but it has to be by choice. Until a woman from the royal line turns 18, she is treated as any other child in the land. I went to school with everyone else my age, and wasn't treated differently by anyone I grew up with. I loved my life as a commoner, and I didn't want it to end, so when I turned 18, I chose not to become part of the royal family.

"My mother blamed Mari, because she thinks my aunt is jealous of her. She isn't. Mari chose her place, because she wants to serve our people, not because she wants to rule. She's more than happy to be second, or hundredth, as long as it means she has a voice. Mari knew I wouldn't be happy in the life, but she always told me the choice was mine. I have never once regretted my choice, and I didn't even care about it until I met you. The pain you feel from your time here made me so glad I chose the life I did."

"Yet, you didn't tell me."

"I couldn't find the right time to tell you our daughter will one day have the same choice to make. You didn't like growing up with royals, and now you'll be raising a girl who could decide she wants to be one."

"What would I be if she decides to go the royal route?"

"The father to a princess. Unless I take the oath, and the crown, you would not be royal, even if Cari is."

"Oh."

"I would do it for you, if that's what you want."

"Why did you not choose it for yourself?" I ask, ignoring her offer. Right now, I want nothing from her.

"As I said, I liked my common life. I wanted to _live_ , and being second in line, I wouldn't be allowed to do that. I could travel some, but always with an entourage, and never would I be allowed to walk around and explore the world around me. Or meet a wonderful man every month for a tryst." She pauses, and I think she's done, but she has more to say. "Never did I imagine my mother would banish me when I made my choice. I ended up losing all my friends as well as my family. I need to tell you I kept my fortune, because that transferred to me when I was 18, regardless of my choice."

"So, you're wealthy, yet working for Matt. Oh, and let's not forget it was apparent he knew about all of this."

"When I was banished, I chose to use my money and freedom to see the world. I studied religions—and fighting techniques—in countries all over the world. I wasn't sure what I believed, or who I wanted to be. While trying to find myself, I ended up in a remote village near Antarctica. I can't tell you exactly what connection Matt and Reina have to that village, but let's just say I stumbled into something I shouldn't have.

"After seeing a demonstration of my skills, Reina wanted to recruit me. While I believe in what she does, I didn't want to belong to a specific group. Matt offered me a job in security, with the freedom to travel when I wanted, and the ability to walk away when I was ready. That was five years ago, and I've never had the urge to leave. I _belong_ at C&C, and it doesn't scare me. Just like belonging with you and Cari doesn't scare me, either."

"I'm having a hard time processing all of this. I have to be honest, Jyn, and remind you I want nothing to do with anything royal."

"Obviously, I feel the same way."

"It's different for you."

"Every situation is different for every person involved. I did not ask to be born into a royal life, just like you didn't ask to be adopted into one."

"I need time."

"I'm planning to wean Cari onto bottles as I go back to work, but she's not there yet, which means we'll need to live close by. I can have Matt give you the apartment next door."

"I have a meeting with him and Ryan as soon as we get home, so I guess we can figure that part out then."

"He will not remove you from the C&C project. I've already talked to him about it. No matter what, you've earned that job."

"I don't want it if he doesn't want me on it."

"He's already approved your designs, so you know he wants you."

"I feel like I don't know anything about anything right now."

"I'm going to have Darcy bring Cari in here, so she can spend some time with you. I just fed her, so you've got a couple of hours. In that time, I'll pack my bags, and go to the airport. If you want to ride back tonight, you can come with us on Matt's jet. The others will be there, so you won't have to interact with me at all."

"I need to talk to Steve, but leaving tonight should be fine."

"Do you want me to pack your suitcase?"

We're being so damn formal, and I hate every second of it, but I know there's no other way for us to be at the moment. "I'd appreciate it, yes."

"Okay, then. I'll go, I guess."

"Thanks for sending Cari in."

It's lame, and stupid, but it's also all I can say right now. I can't hug her and tell her it's going to be alright, because I don't know if it will be. I know this ring needs to go back into the vault, and maybe it's just never going to be brought out again.

Jyn

Walking out of that room is the hardest thing I've ever done in my life. I'm numb as I tell Darcy she can take Cari into the room with Noah. I ignore the icy glares of the staff as I walk the halls, but wish Noah could see these people and how loyal they are to him. I hold in my tears as I walk out the gates, declining the car I'm offered, because I can't be in close quarters with other humans right now, even ones who don't know how far from grace I've fallen.

I've rarely cared what others think of me, but right now, I care. I care about the people who call me names as I walk past them, and tell me I've disgraced their favorite son. Again, I wish Noah could see these people, and understand that while they love Brayden, it's him they favor. He's the boy they once wished they could be, but then grew to admire and love for the man he is now.

It's not until I'm in our rented apartment, lying on the floor, that I let the tears fall. I've fought so hard to leave my old life behind, and I did it. I proved myself to the people who matter to me, and despite what happened in the hospital, I know I'm a good mom. I would do anything for my daughter, including trying to co-parent with the man I love.

Maybe that's it...maybe I love Noah too much. What if I was never meant to have a great love for the ages? Princesses get their fairytale endings, but when you refuse that crown, can you still live happily ever after? Right now, I don't think so.

I'm not sure how long I lie on the floor, but even when I hear the door open behind me, I don't have the energy to stand up. Luckily, I don't have to defend myself from an intruder.

"I've got you, Jyny," Matt says, lifting me into his arms.

"I have to pack up our stuff," I protest.

"I've got it," Reina tells me, and I start to cry again.

"It's going to be okay," Matt assures me, but I can't bring myself to believe him.

He sits on the couch, holding me until Reina wheels our bags out. "Thank you."

"No thanks needed. Let's get down to the car."

Matt stands with me in his arms, and when I try to protest, Reina silences me. "It's okay to lean on your friends. That's what friends are for."

If I speak, I'm going to start crying again, so I nod, and bury my head in Matt's neck. I can hear the people on the street, but thanks to my friends, I don't see them. Reina is practically vibrating with anger when she climbs into the car after us.

"I swear this island is out to get us, Matteo. Every time we come here, something crazy happens."

"They're not angry at you," I remind her.

"You are one of us, Jyn."

"You're going to make me cry again."

"Go ahead. It makes Matt uncomfortable, and he needs that feeling in his life every once in a while."

Despite my somber mood, I burst out laughing. "You two are totally relationship goals. If I was in a relationship, I mean."

"Noah's not dumb, Jyn. Unworthy of you, and a little cocky sometimes, but not dumb. He'll come around," Matt assures me.

"He's confident, not cocky. And you left out how talented he is."

"I have not forgotten my promise to you, although I'd like to toss him out on his ass."

"No matter what, he is my daughter's father, and I want him to be happy and successful."

Do I wish he could be both of those things we me at his side? Of course, I do. I just don't believe I'll ever have the chance to prove it to him. Hell, I'll be lucky if we have any interactions that don't include pick-up and drop-off times. When did this become my life?

Noah

"Matt and Reina Corrigan need to stay out of our business!" Brayden's mother says, barging into the room where I've been talking things over with Steve, Darcy, Bray, Jen, and Wayne.

"They don't usually interfere unless they have a reason to," Wayne tells her.

She looks at him like he's something stuck to the bottom of her shoe, but per usual, he just smiles even brighter at her. She practically growls as she grabs the television remote, and puts on the local news channel.

I sit up straight, jostling Cari a little, when I see what's on the screen. Matt is carrying Jyn through a crowd of angry locals, while Reina walks behind them with our luggage.

"What the hell is going on?"

"You've always chosen to put on blinders where the people of this island are concerned. They have never thought of you as less than us," Steve explains. "In fact, I daresay they like you more than the rest of us at times."

"They shouldn't be yelling at her like that! How do they even know what happened?"

"That woman's mother held a little press conference before departing the island."

"Really, mother? You know her name," Bray admonishes her.

"Her name is not worthy of my lips."

"That sounds kinda gross, Mama Bray," Wayne tells her with a smirk.

He's my hero. Seriously. I'm secure enough in my manhood to idolize a boy bander, and I might even need a tattoo.

"What did you call me?"

"Since this has nothing to do with you, why don't you retire to your room?" Steve asks, but it's really an order, and we all know it.

She storms away, but the damage is done. I'm awestruck by the loyalty of people I always thought were laughing at me behind my back. Yet, seeing Jyn so broken is destroying me.

"What do you want to do, Noah?" Jen asks, sitting next to me.

"I wish I knew. I can't stop loving her, but what she kept from me is monumental."

"Only you can decide how to proceed from here," Steve tells me.

"Can we talk for a moment?" I ask him.

"No."

There's an audible gasp from both Darcy and Jen, while Wayne curses, and Bray just looks shocked.

"No?"

"I know what you want, and I can't let you make a hasty decision. Take some time to think about if it's really what you want. If it is, I'll take an audience with you, and accept the item you wish to return."

"When have I ever need an official audience?"

"Only for this, Noah. Anything else, and I will be there for you, day or night."

I know he's right to make me wait, since I don't know my own mind right now. It still grates a little to be put in my place, but I know he'd do the same to anyone else in this room if he wanted them to think something through. I can't take it personally, despite this entire situation feeling pretty damn personal right now.

# 18

Noah

Ryan and Matt are glaring across the conference table at each other. Ryan won the pissing match over where to meet, so we're at Griffin, but Matt's not giving an inch. Landon's got a smirk on his face as he watches them, but the kid's braver than I am. Maybe because it's not his job on the line.

"I don't like these windows."

"I have a copy of your email to Noah right here. You not only approved the windows, you chose them."

"Maybe it's the design I have a problem with, then."

"Cut the bullshit, Matt. You're pissed at Noah because he hasn't forgiven Jyn in the allotted time of your choosing."

"My people always come first, and you know it."

"As do mine, and _you_ know it."

"Jyn doesn't need his shit."

"Jyn has already told you to leave him alone. On more than one occasion. Do you want me to bring out those emails too? Because she blind copied me on them."

What? It's been two weeks since we've been back, and things are definitely tense and awkward between all of us, but I had no idea it's gone this far. Matt and Ryan are in a staring contest so intense, I wouldn't be surprised if they came to blows.

"I don't want you keeping me on because of Jyn."

"He loves your work. I have those emails too. He's just being an ass."

"Takes one to know one."

"Am I wrong?"

"No. Listen, Noah, I do love your work, but I also love Jyn. I have lots of women friends who are like sisters to me, but I truly think of Jyn as just that. We're not related by blood, but she's my sister, and seeing her so defeated is killing me. I'm used to a badass who takes no shit, but the woman I'm seeing now isn't her. Sure, she still instills fear in the common man, but I can see the pain in her eyes, and I just want to fix it."

So do I. I know exactly what he's talking about, because I see it every time I pick up and drop off Cari. It's tearing at my soul, but I just can't bring myself to forgive and forget. In fact, I have a date tonight.

I don't feel ready to move on, but if I don't try, I'll never know. The hot redhead at the gas station yesterday is just who I need right now to take my mind of the almost princess I can't seem to get out of my fantasies.

"I can't make a decision based on what you want, Matt."

"Exactly," Ryan agrees.

"You're right," Matt tells me. "You, not him, are right. I'll be easier to work with from now on."

"Thank you."

Ryan can't let him get away without one last barb. "Yes, Matt, we appreciate your cooperation in this matter."

"Dick."

"My name's Ryan, but since we've seen each other naked in the locker room, I'm not surprised you're confusing things."

"Swear to God, it's going down one day. You, me, and a cage. Then we'll see how funny you think you are."

"Bring it, Corrigan. Any time, any place."

"Man, who knew old men could be so funny?" Landon asks, before running from the room.

Smart kid. I can't run, so I stand, and shake Matt's hand. If his grip's a little tight, it's no more than I deserve.

Jyn

"Hey, Land, what's up?" I ask, answering my phone.

"I'm supposed to be loyal to Noah."

"Yes, you are."

"But, I'm loyal to you too."

"You don't have to choose between us."

"He doesn't know I'm so close to you."

"Are you feeling guilty about that?"

"Not exactly."

"What's going on?"

"He's going on a date."

I feel like the air's been knocked from my lungs, and I drop my phone. He has a date? A fucking date? I'm over here, barely sleeping and only eating because I need to feed Cari, and he's ready to just fuck some other woman?

I pick the phone back up, because I can hear Landon yelling. "Sorry, Land. Thanks for telling me."

"What are you going to do?"

"Nothing. It's not my business."

"The hell? You're not even going to fight?"

"What am I supposed to do—put on a sexy dress and show him what he's missing?"

"Yeah, that's a good idea." Exactly what I'd expect from a teenage boy, but I know it wouldn't do any good.

"No honey, it's not. If he doesn't miss me already, a sexy dress isn't going to make him think of me all of a sudden."

"What if he does miss you already?"

"He wouldn't be going on a date if he missed me."

"I hate this."

"So do I."

"Is there anything I can do for you? I need to do something."

"Are you available to babysit tonight?"

"Um, sure."

"See you at six."

I know I've confused Landon, but I'm just not ready to tell him what's going on in my crazy mind right now. I was right to tell him a sexy dress is the wrong way to go tonight, because blending in is the right way. I need to see Noah tonight. I don't want to, but I _need_ to. I can't imagine ever moving on from him, but if he's ready for this, I have to be ready to let him go for good. I don't have the details of his date, but I have the skills to figure it all out.

Noah

All this date has done for me so far is prove that Jyn's my perfect woman. Mia's doing everything right, but it's all wrong. I have eyes, so I know she's sexy as hell, but the tight dress she's rocking is doing absolutely nothing for me.

The conversation is boring, and gets even worse when I tell her I have a daughter. She starts spouting off about all kids being accidents, and joking about abortions, and yeah, I'm done.

"I need to get home," I tell her, because I really do at this point.

"You're kidding, right?"

"Nope. This was a mistake, and I'm sorry I wasted both of our times."

"At least walk me to my car?"

"Of course."

I leave cash for the bill, because I don't want to draw this out any longer, and motion for her to walk in front of me out the door. On the way in, I had my hand on her lower back, and it felt all wrong. Now, I'm doing everything I can to avoid touching her.

"This way, Noah."

"We parked in the other direction."

"I know, but we should walk a little."

Shit. I thought this was a little too easy. I guess the least I can do is take a walk with her.

"Okay."

We walk around the block in silence, and then in darkness. I'm not sure where we are exactly, because I don't live or work near here, but I'm feeling a little on edge.

"Maybe we should walk back," I tell her.

"Or maybe you shouldn't."

The male voice comes from behind me, but I don't turn to look, because three more guys are now in front of me. Mia's smile is wide when she tells me to empty my wallet. Seriously? I decide to date, and this is what I get? Fucking Karma.

I'm reaching for my pocket when I hear a scream. I turn to see a man on the ground. I don't know if he's the guy who spoke to me, but when I turn back around, the others are on the ground as well. They appear to just be unconscious, but I'm not going to check for a pulse.

Mia is nowhere to be seen, and then she's falling from the sky. Her body lands in a heap of broken bones, and limbs facing the wrong way. I look up, but all I see is a left hand with a cut across the back, and then nothing. A professional saved me, and it has to be someone from the Society. I don't know why she didn't stick around, but I'm grateful for the help. And now, I need to make myself scarce as well, because I don't even know how I'd begin to describe the scene around me.

Jyn

I missed the knife on the bitch who set Noah up. She got one good swipe at my hand, but I've had wounds that were much worse. She's never going to inflict physical—or emotional—damage on another person again, and I'm not the least bit sorry about that. Death by dropping from ten stories is one of the worst ways to go, and after hearing what she said to Noah about babies, and seeing what she had planned for him after, I can sleep easy tonight. Once I'm sure my friends have the bodies handled, and I pay a visit to the apartment Kenny shares with his girlfriend Matisse, of course.

Noah

I'm glad to be meeting with Matt today, because it gives me an excuse to be at C&C. I need to thank Darcy, or whichever of her friends helped me, for what she did last night. I don't know if I'd have come out of last night alive if I'd been on my own, and I'm not embarrassed to say a woman saved me.

"Hey, Darce."

"Well, hello. Who let you in the caf?" she asks, as I take a seat at the table she's sharing with around half of her crew.

"Matt gave me an all-access pass today."

"About time."

I look around, before leaning over the table to talk to all of them. "I don't know which of you it was last night, but thanks."

"For?" Darcy asks.

"You're going to make me say it? Fine. Thanks for rescuing me from my date who set me up, and the guys she brought along to jump me."

Instead of smiling, Darcy looks like she wants to punch me. "You were on a date? Really? It's been like what, five minutes since you and Jyn broke up?"

Something's not right here. "You really didn't know? None of you helped me?"

"No, and no. If it'd been any of us, we'd all know."

"But who was it then? She was like a ninja, taking them out when my back was turned. All I saw was a cut across her left hand before she disappeared over the roof."

"A cut on her left hand, huh? Like that one over there?"

I turn to look where Darcy's gesturing, and lose my breath. Jyn is sitting at a table with Aiden and Nate, and yeah, her left hand has a bandage on the top. It can't be, though. She didn't know I had a date, and even if she did, why would she save me?

My feet are moving before my brain can even think about what I'm doing. I stop next to her chair, and take her hand in mine. "It was you."

"Yes."

"Why?"

"I had to see with my own eyes that you were moving on, and then things went bad, and I couldn't just stand by, and let you get hurt."

"Thank you."

She pulls her hand back, and I feel like I just said the wrong thing once again. "You're welcome."

I stand there for another awkward minute, but she doesn't look up at me again. When I look to the guys with her, they both look like they want to kill me. I kind of want to kick my own ass right now, so I get it. I walk away knowing I need to give Jyn another chance, but also realizing I may be coming to this understanding a little too late.

# 19

Jyn

"What's up, Jyny?" Matt asks when I enter his office. Nate, Aiden, Jake, and Theo are already here.

"I need to resign."

"No, you don't."

"I can't live like this. Watching Noah go on a date, even if it didn't end well, was too much for me."

"Don't follow him next time," Theo tells me, making it sound so simple.

"I get it. I had to watch Rei go on dates, and it nearly killed me," Matt admits.

"There's no chance of the two of you working things out?" Jake asks.

"No. He thanked me for saving him last night, but he couldn't even look at me."

"You're going to have to see him, because of Cari. Wait, you're not leaving her, are you?" Aiden asks.

"No. Never. The doctors have started to cut back on my meds, and I'm feeling more like myself every day. Even if I wasn't, I wouldn't try and take her from her dad."

"If you're staying here, why can't you work with us?" Matt wants to know.

"I'll never be able to untangle myself from Noah if I'm here. Yes, we have Cari, so we'll always be connected, but I can walk away and not have him in my face all the time if I'm not here."

"You're moving out, too?"

"The apartments are only for employees, Matt."

"No, the apartments are for whoever the hell I want them to be. I'm not kicking you out because you quit. You're our family, Jyn."

"You're making this hard."

"Good."

"Jyny, no matter where you work, we're not going to stop being your friends, so your plan isn't going to work," Jake reminds me.

"You don't really hang out with anyone else, except at charity things."

"If you leave, we do. You're not getting rid of us so easily," Nate tells me, coming to kneel by my chair. "I've never known you to run from a situation."

"I don't know what else to do."

"Stay," Aiden says, dropping down on the other side of me. "We'll help you in any way we can. Just please stay. We need you here, keeping all of us in line, and making sure this building is still standing every day."

In moments, five men are kneeling around my chair, comforting me. These are my friends. These macho and built men, who much of the world sees as entitled and cocky. But, I know their hearts. I know they love their wives, but they also love me. Some days like today, I don't know why, but I know they do.

"I didn't want to leave. I just don't know what to do."

"We'll figure it out," Theo promises me.

I hug them all, and thank them again for being the best friends and bosses a woman could ever want. After, I go to the nursey, because I need baby hugs. When I get there, I realize I'm not the only one needing my daughter right now.

"I'm sorry, Darcy, but since you're not a parent, I can't let you in," the woman who's manning the entrance tells her as I approach.

"She's my niece."

"Unless Jyn puts you on the list, I can't release her to you."

"I'm not trying to take her! I just want to see her."

"Let her in, please."

They both turn to look at me, and I see the relief of Darcy's face. "I promise I'm not taking her."

"I know. I'm sorry I didn't have you on here already."

"You need to sign here," the woman says, handing me a tablet.

"Can you add Jenysis as well?"

"Of course."

"Thank you," I tell her, turning to Darcy. "You can go on in. I'll stop by later."

"Or we could go in together. Maybe grab one of the tables on the patio."

"Sure. I'd like that."

"Me too."

We walk in, and I let her pick up Cari while I grab us a shaded table on the patio overlooking the city. We're several stories up, but the entire area is enclosed so there's no chance of any accidents happening.

Right now, we're the only parents outside, giving us a little privacy. I don't know if we'll need it, but we have it.

"I need this," Darcy sells, inhaling Cari's baby scent.

"I don't know why the smell of a baby is so comforting, but it really is."

"Yes."

"I don't mean to pry, but you looked a little upset outside."

"I'm having a rough day."

"Me too."

We sit in silence for a few minutes, with her rocking Cari while I look out over the city that's become my home. I'm not sure she's going to say anything else to me, but all of a sudden, she blurts it out.

"I can't have a baby. We've been trying, but it's not happening. Kenny says it still could, but I don't know if I can go through this every month. I had planned to stop trying last month, but I tried anyway, and it's yet another no."

"If there was anything I could do to help you, I would."

"Even after everything that's happened?"

"I just tried to quit my job, but our friends convinced me I needed to stay. That means we'll be seeing each other for a long time. Even if you can't be friends with me, there's no reason we can't be civil to each other."

"You tried to quit? You can't quit!"

"So I've been told."

"I mean it, Jyn. The guys are great, but they're also like bulls in a china shop. You bring the beauty, grace, and kick-ass to the security team. Everyone listens to you because they know you care."

"The guys care."

"Yeah, but it's hidden under all that macho. Only some of us get to see their softer sides."

"I don't think anyone's ever called me 'soft' before."

She waves her free hand at me like I'm talking nonsense. "You're a perfect blend of all of it, Jyn. We all take you for granted, which sucks, but if you weren't here, the testosterone would be unbearable."

"Well, I'm staying. For better or worse."

"I wish you'd told him sooner. I understand why you turned your back on a crown, and deep down, I know Noah does to. I messed him up bad when I left him with Brayden's family, and I'll never forgive myself for that."

"You did what was best for all of you, including the people he now considers his family too, and he knows it. Probably buried deep where he knows I did what I had to as well, but I know it's there."

"I haven't thanked you for saving him last night."

"No one needs to thank me. I love him, Darcy. Even with his stupid homemaker phase, and his hatred of me now, I can't stop loving him."

"He doesn't hate you."

"We'll just have to agree to disagree."

"Oh no we won't; I'm going to convince you to fight for him, and not just with your ninja skills."

"If I thought I had a chance to win, I'd fight until my last breath."

"Perfect. I'll be in touch," she tells me, handing me Cari. "Talk soon!"

I cuddle my girl, even as my heart gives a little leap of hope. I don't know what Darcy has planned, and it's probably going to be a mess of crazy, but sometimes crazy is exactly what we all need in our life.

Noah

Landon's been tiptoeing around me all day, and it's making me insane. Time to get to the bottom of it.

"Land, can I see you for a minute."

"Um, can it wait?"

"No."

"Okay."

He looks defeated and guilty when he slumps into the chair across the desk from me. "What's going on with you today?"

"I fucked up."

"With the plans?" I ask, panicking. I had him send the latest plans to Matt after I made the tweaks he wanted.

"No. With you...and Jyn."

"Jyn?"

"All my loyalty should be with you, but she's my friend."

It all becomes clear. "You told her about my date."

"I had to. I mean, I guess I didn't _have_ to, but I did. She's helped me out in the past. When I was almost caught up in shit that would've ruined my future."

"She's pretty amazing."

"Yeah, she...wait? You know she's amazing, but you still took some other chick out last night?"

"I'm not always the brightest bulb in the box."

"Yeah, I'm getting that."

God, I love this kid and how he doesn't pull any punches with me. "You don't have to feel bad about telling her."

"Cool. Oh, and I guess I should tell you I'm planning to set her up with my coach."

"I thought you liked your job, Landon."

"Oh, I do, but I like Jyn more, and she deserves a good guy. If you're not going to step up, I'll send someone else into the game for her."

"Hold off on the coach."

"I was hoping you'd say that."

"I'm sure you were."

He laughs his way out of my office, and I'm smiling, too. I still don't know how to win Jyn back, but I have a plan on where to start. The plan starts in a about an hour, so I need to get back on track, and finish up my work for the day.

After work, I drive to Gavin's cooking school. He's got a beginner class starting tonight he said I could join. On the condition I don't try and burn his place down, of course.

The class is both harder, and easier, than I thought it would be. I'm the only adult in the room, because he focuses on children and teens at his school. The kids are nice to me, and I laugh right along with them when I can barely boil water. Barely is good enough, though, and I have a container of spaghetti to show for it. Not homemade pasta, or sauce, but everyone has to start somewhere, and tonight's class was about starting in the kitchen. Boxes, jars, and boiling water.

I'm home later than usual, so I'm not sure Jyn will even answer the door when I knock. Cari's been falling asleep earlier, and as far as she knows, I have no other reason to drop by for a visit.

"Sorry," Jyn says when she opens the door. "She just went down."

"Good. I'm here to see her mother tonight."

"Oh."

"Can I come in?"

"Sure."

She touches her hair, which is up in a messy bun. "You look beautiful."

"I'm in one of your old shirts over torn leggings."

"Beautiful."

"Please don't."

"What?"

"Don't compliment me."

"I can't help it."

"You've helped it for weeks, Noah. Nothing's changed, just because I saved you from some assholes. I'm still just me, the woman who betrayed your trust."

No, she's not. She's the woman who has always accepted me for me, and never once walked away. I walked away, even though I knew how it felt to be left behind. The shame I feel over doing that to her is a constant in my life right now. She didn't cheat on me, or leave me to navigate life on my own; she kept something from me, yes, but it wasn't to hurt me.

"You're the woman I cooked dinner for, Jyn."

"You cooked?"

"Well, cooking may be a stretch. I opened a box and a jar, and boiled some water."

"Everyone has to start somewhere, and from the logo on the bag in your hand, I'm guessing you started with Gavin."

"Yeah."

"How old were the kids in your class?" she asks, and I see the laughter in her eyes.

"Ten. And yes, they gave me shit for being the worst student in the class."

"I'm sure you weren't the worst."

"Oh, I was."

"And still, you brought me food. Is it safe?"

"Yes. Probably barely edible, but it's safe."

"You know where the plates are."

Yes, I do. I grab one for her, and fix up a plate of the spaghetti. She takes the fork I hand her, and swirls some spaghetti around it. I can tell it's bad, when she barely manages to swallow it down, but she smiles at me anyway.

"It's horrible, isn't it."

"Yes."

"Shit. I wanted to romance you."

"You think the fact you tried isn't romantic?"

"Is it?"

"Definitely."

"I'm going to keep going to classes, so I can cook for you some nights."

"You make it sound like we're going to be dating again."

"Is it too late for that?"

"Not exactly."

It's not the answer I want, but it's maybe something I can live with. Maybe. "Can you explain that answer to me? Please."

"I want to grab you and kiss you right now, Noah. I want to pull you into my bed, and suck your cock until you come down my mouth. And then I want to take you into my body, and keep you there all night."

This is too easy. "Yes. To all of that. Yes."

"No."

"I was afraid you were going to say that."

"Sex was never our problem."

"What do I need to do?"

"Show me it's real this time."

"It was real before Cyndryann."

"No, because if it was, you would've talked to me instead of running from me."

"I was hurt."

"I know, and I understand why you felt that way. Still, it shouldn't have gone down the way it did. You shouldn't have been on a date last night."

It's time to be real, and I know I have to go first. "What if you want to be a princess after all?"

"I don't."

"You could."

"Honest to God, the only way I will ever take the crown is if you want me to. If you need to be a 'real' royal, I will accept my legacy, and make you my prince."

"You really would do that for me, even if you don't want it, wouldn't you?"

"Yes."

"I just don't get it, Jyn. You won't stay home from work for me, but you'll become a princess for me."

"One willingly takes my life from me. The other merely limits my choices."

I'd never thought of it that way. Many women enjoy staying home from work, but I guess it's because they want that life. Jyn wouldn't. I knew it when I tried to force her into it before, and I know it now, when she's willing to sacrifice herself for me. I've already had one woman do that for me, and look where we are now.

"I would never ask you to take the crown for me. And, I won't ask you to stay home for me again."

"Good, because after I tried to quit my job today, my friends—and your sister—convinced me I'm needed at C&C. I belong there, and I don't want to leave."

"I'm guessing you were quitting to get away from me."

"Yes. I can't watch you date."

"Even if I want to date you?"

"I don't share."

"Neither do I."

"How did you do it, Noah? How did you ask someone else out?"

"I don't know."

"I don't either, and that's why I have to ask you to leave now."

"Jyn."

"Please. Just go."

# 20

Jyn

Noah's been romancing me, despite me not talking to him since I asked him to leave last week. I can't get past him asking that woman on a date. If he loved me so much, how could he do that? Landon wanted me to go out with his coach, and the thought of it made me want to throw up. If I couldn't do it, how could Noah?

The flowers, simple cooked meals—which are becoming increasingly edible—bubble baths waiting when I get home, and cupcakes, are wearing me down. Not enough to give him a full chance yet, but I couldn't stop myself from giving him a kiss last night. On the cheek, but it's more than I've given him up until now.

There's one person I can talk to about this, so I head to his office. Aiden looks up from whatever it is he's working on with parts and gears, to smile at me when I knock on his open door.

"Hey, Jyny."

"Hi. Do you have a minute?"

"You just need one?"

"Smart ass."

"Always and forever. Come on in."

"When you and Ellie were in D.C., she went on a date with some guy, didn't she?"

"Yep. One of the worst nights of my life."

"How did you get past it?"

"I love her."

"I love Noah, but I'm really angry at him for trying to move on without talking to me about anything. Now, he wants another start, but how do I know he means it?"

"Ellie went on the date, because she was broken. Noah's broken, too. Not in the same way, but he's had a lifetime of coming in second and being left behind."

"I never put him second!"

"Didn't you? You didn't trust him with the truth about your past."

"I don't talk about it."

"You talked about it with us, and Reina."

"Because I was trying to work with you."

"Being with the person you love is the most important job anyone can take on."

"Is this a Devil's Advocate scenario, or are you really taking his side?"

"I'm taking his side."

"Wow."

"Hear me out, Jyny."

"I haven't stormed the door."

"No, you haven't," he tells me with a smile.

"Go on."

"If I were in Noah's shoes, I'd have been subconsciously waiting for you to leave me, because it's all I would've known. When I heard you could have a life that's so much more than I could ever give you, I'd leave you before you could leave me."

"Seriously?"

"Hundred percent. I'm rich, and my father's the Veep, so I've never been in Noah's shoes. But, I'm pretty sure that's where my head would be at if I was him."

"He's not there anymore. At least, I don't think he is. He's going out of his way to show me he's all in. After I killed his date, of course."

"Savage, but necessary."

"Yes."

"One last question, and then I'll shut up."

"No, you won't."

"Probably not, but let's pretend. How was his date before the epic ninja fight sequence?"

"I hope you all realize repeatedly referring to an Asian as a ninja is stereotypical behavior."

"You were stealth, and we all know you've trained to be a legit ninja, so move on and answer the Q, Jyn."

"Fine, you get a pass, because you know I'm official. As for the question, the date was a disaster, and I could tell he was hating every second of it."

"There you go. He did it, because he had to see if he could. He couldn't, and now he's coming for you. The question is, are you going to let him catch you?"

"I knew you weren't out of questions," I grumble, but I still hug him, and thank him for giving me the perspective I need.

Noah's been wearing me down with little gestures of love, but it's time for me to go big. I know exactly what I want to do, and who can help me with it. Time to put the plan in motion.

Noah

We're breaking ground today on the C&C building. Weeks of planning, and sometimes fighting, has led to this day, and I just wish Jyn was going to be at my side for it. I thought this building would be the culmination of my dreams, but it's not as significant without her here. Standing out, and making my mark are important, but Jyn and Cari are so much more.

"Stop sulking. She's right over there," Matt tells me.

I look past the cameras, and see her. Jyn is here with Cari in her arms. She's got tears running down her face, and I know they're for me. I want to run to them, but I have to finish the photo op.

Once it's over, she moves to me. "Congratulations, Noah. I know how much this means to you, and I couldn't be happier for you."

I can barely speak around the lump in my throat. "Thank you."

"Here, hold Cari, and I'll take your picture."

"How about I take a picture of all three of you?" Jen asks, coming to stand with us.

"Oh, well, I don't want to put Noah on the spot."

"How is taking a picture with you a bad thing for me? Come here, beautiful."

I pull her to my side, and wipe the last of the tears from her cheeks, before turning back to the camera. Knowing Jen, she caught everything on camera already, and I can't wait to see those pictures. Jyn was looking at me like she did a couple months ago, and I think I may not have run out of my chances yet.

Darcy walks up with my mother, who rushes over to hug me. "I'm so proud of you, Noah."

"Thanks, Mom."

Jyn's crying again, and so are Darcy and Jen. I realize I have all the women I love her in one place, so I ask Wayne to take a picture of all of us. When Jyn hands Cari to my mom, even after everything that happened before, I swear I fall in love with her even more.

There's no situation this time, but there are definitely more tears. Wayne and Bray are wiping their eyes when it's all done, and so am I. This is the life I always dreamed of, and it's still a little out of my reach, but I'm getting closer.

"Are you coming to lunch with us?" I ask Jyn when everyone's moved away to give us privacy.

"I told Matt I would, but it's up to you."

"If you don't know I want you there, I've been doing a horrible job of trying to romance you."

"You've been doing a superb job, but I've made you wait a long time."

"A couple of weeks isn't long."

She looks away, and once again, I feel like I've said the wrong thing to her. It's a habit I'm trying hard to break. Not succeeding well, but I'm trying.

"What is it?"

"It was long enough for you to ask someone else out on a date."

And there it is. I've wondered if this was the mountain I've been having trouble scaling, and now I know for sure. This is what's stopping her from giving in.

"I was drowning, and wanted to believe I could move on. If I was being honest, I knew I couldn't, but I had to try. I spent that entire date realizing how perfect you are for me, and how any other woman I met was not."

"I could tell you weren't happy, but it still hurt."

"I'm sorry."

"See, this is why I shouldn't be here. It's your big day, and I'm bringing it all down."

"No, you're giving me what I need. I _need_ to have you back in my life—and my bed. I'm not going to give up. Not ever, Jyn. I will somehow prove to you that one mistake isn't worth ending what we have between us."

"No, one mistake isn't."

Damn. Nothing like being put in your place. Again.

"I've moved past that. Can you move past one disastrous date that was never going to be repeated, even before I was almost robbed?"

"I'm beginning to think I can."

"Yeah?"

"Yes."

"So, that's a yes to lunch?"

"It is. On one condition."

"Name it."

"Ooh, this could get interesting if you're giving me cart blanche."

"I am, so hit me with it, beautiful."

"Have a picnic with me tomorrow?"

"I have to look at my schedule, but I think I can make it work."

"Land's already cleared your schedule for me."

"Has he now?"

"Yep."

"I like that kid more every day."

"Me too."

"Where is this picnic taking place?"

"He'll give you the address tomorrow morning."

"Fair enough. Is it wrong for me to ask for something right now?" I ask, tipping my head down.

She leans into me a little. "Not at all."

I close the last inches, and kiss her sweetly. It's too short, but I've got the rest of my life to kiss those lips.

"Sit next to me at lunch, and let me hold your hand?"

"Those are two things."

"Well, you let me kiss you, so I thought I'd push my luck a little."

"It's your lucky day," she tells me, taking my hand in hers.

"I know."

Lunch is a buffet in the biggest tent I've ever seen. There are smaller tents for the overflow of guests, but we're seated right in the middle of things with Matt, Reina, Ryan, Chloe, and all the kids. Matt's son, Mitch, is in a high chair like Cari, but the Griffin kids are old enough for their own seats. Erin is the oldest, and a total daddy's girl, while Johnny is glued to Chloe's side like his life depends on it. I can tell Jyn's completely charmed by both of them.

"Thinking of more?" Noah whispers in my ear.

"Maybe in a couple of years. Are you offering?"

"Hell yeah, I am."

"I might want to be married for the next one."

"And I might have a ring, just in case you do."

"What kind of proposal is that?"

"Not a proposal, just a fact for you to keep in mind."

"Like I'll be able to think of anything but that from now on."

"I'll show you mine, if you show me yours?"

"I don't have a ring for you, Noah."

"No, but you have a secret plan."

"Not a chance."

"Just a small hint?"

"Patience is a virtue."

"I'm not a virtuous man."

"You have your moments."

"Do I now?"

"Yes, you do. Now, go visit with your Mom. I know you want to, and Cari's going to be ready for a nap soon."

"It means more than you'll ever know that you brought her here today. That you were here for me."

She leans over, and kisses me again. "I'll always be here for you. No matter what."

Jyn

I am so nervous, I can barely stand still. Landon said this is the place, and one look at it told me I'm in the right spot. But, Noah's late. I called the office, and verified he left on time, but he's not here.

He's not coming. It's the only reason he wouldn't be here. He kissed me yesterday, and said he has a ring for me one day, but he's changed his mind. I don't know why, but it's obvious he did.

I kneel down to start packing everything up when I hear gravel crunching behind me. Turning, I see Noah's SUV coming up the dirt road. He's here. I can't see him through the windshield, so I don't know what he's thinking, but he's here.

"You came," I say as he gets out, and starts walking towards me.

"Why are we here?"

"Do you want to eat, and then we'll talk?"

"No. I want to know why we're in this specific place."

So, this is how it's going to go. I can hear the anger in his voice, and maybe I deserve it.

"Landon told me you fell in love with this land when the two of you were scouting locations for another of Ryan's clients."

"Yes, I did."

"He said you told him you'd build your dream home here if you could afford it."

"I can't afford it."

"I bought it."

"You what?"

"I bought this piece of land."

"I don't need your charity, Jyn. I thought you understood that about me."

"This isn't charity."

"So what, you just bought my dream piece of land because you could?"

"Yes. I mean, no."

"This was a mistake. All of it's a mistake," he tells me, walking back to his SUV.

"Just like that? You're not going to listen to me? Again, you're just going to walk away like I'm nothing?"

"Yeah, it looks like I am."

# 21

Noah

I am so tired of money. Not having enough of it to fit in with my friends, and having my friends try to use theirs to "help" me. I never asked for help. Especially not from the woman who claims to love me. How could she love me, and still think buying that land for me is okay?

I walk through the Griffin building with purpose, stopping in front of Landon's desk. "You're fired."

"What? How? Why are you back so soon?"

"Gather up your things, and go."

"You can't just fire me!"

"Watch me."

He starts to speak again, but stops when a small hand grabs my arm, and tugs. "In your office, now."

I don't try to fight against Chloe, because I wouldn't do that to a woman, even if she wasn't married to a man who could end me in more ways than one. Once we're in my office she closes the door, but keeps her back to me. If I didn't know better, I'd think she was trying to calm herself down.

"The kid isn't loyal to me, Chloe."

"I'm not ready for you to speak yet."

"Seriously?"

"Oh yeah, I'm dead serious, asshole," she says, turning so fast her blonde ponytail hits her in the face.

"Do you know what he did? What he's been doing?"

"Trying to navigate between being loyal to two people he cares about? Yeah, I know."

"He had no right to tell her about that piece of land."

"Sometimes, it literally boggles my mind how stupid people can be."

"I am not a charity case."

"Do you know anything of my background with Ryan?"

"Not much, no," I admit.

"My parents were the caretakers for his family's first estate. I lived in an apartment over their garage with them. When Ryan fell in love with me, all his friends thought I was a gold-digger, but I never wanted anything from him. I took clothes, make-up, and handbags from his mother and sister so I'd fit in with the private school kids, but I never wanted anything from Ryan.

"He wanted to give me things, though, so he worked construction every summer, and bought my presents from money he earned. When we got back together after years of a messy situation, I was his employee. Again, a gold-digger, right?"

"I wouldn't ever call you that."

"Good, because letting someone who loves you give you things _out of love_ is a big deal. I know that better than anyone. I also know Jyn didn't buy that land out of pity, or charity. She bought it for both of you, and Cari. She bought it so you could build her a house."

Oh my God. She's right. I know she's right. The land wasn't for me. It was for _us_. Her way of showing me she wanted there to be an "us" again. And I walked away yet again.

"I have to go."

"Un-fire Landon on your way out, please."

"Sorry, Land. You're definitely not fired."

"You're going back?"

"I'm going back."

"Thank God. Oh, and I want a raise for this."

"I'll ask Ryan tomorrow."

I don't wait for a response, running through the building like zombies are after me. I don't even know if Jyn will still be where I left her, but I'm going to try there first.

She's sitting on a blanket, with her knees hugged to her chest when I pull up. Her head is down, but I can tell she's crying, and I know I did this to her. I broke her once more, but this time I'm going to put us both back together.

"I'm okay, Land. I said I'd wait for you here, but you didn't have to come out here to check on me."

"That kid definitely deserves a raise."

"Noah?" she asks, raising her head to look at me.

"Afraid so."

"Why are back here? I can't take any more of your hate."

"It's never been hate. Anger, fear, betrayal...yeah, I've felt all those things, but never hate."

"I'm really too tired to fight with you again."

"I'm not here to fight."

"Then what do you want?"

"You."

"When did you decide this?"

"When I ran back to a hotel in London, only to find out I was too late."

"You came back?"

"I came back. Then, and now. I'm hoping I'm not too late this time."

"I didn't buy this land as an act of charity."

"You bought it for our future."

"Yes. Just the land. I was going to tell you we'd wait until you can afford to build us the house you want."

"What if I don't want to wait?"

"You'd let me pay for our house?"

"Yes. It's just money."

"Forgive me for being a little shocked right now."

"I'd be scared if you weren't."

"You're sure?"

"Almost."

"What will it take for you to be sure?"

"This," I say, walking over, and dropping to one knee in front of her.

Jyn

He's proposing. Right here and now, Noah's about to propose to me.

"Jyn, I have loved you for a long time. I never told you, because my track record with women I love isn't so great. Those previous times weren't my fault, but a lot of what's happened between us is. I promise to get help for my issues, and treat you the way you deserved to be treated; like a princess without a crown."

I laugh through the new tears that have started flowing from my eyes. "I love you."

"Good, but I'm not done."

"Oops."

"I would be honored to build a house for our family. I don't care where the money comes from, because one day, I'm going to be rich. Or maybe, I'll just always be comfortable enough to take you to London. Either way, all that matters is that you're my wife. Will you marry me, Jyn?"

He takes a box out of his pocket, and opens it. I gasp at the sapphires set in gold. It's absolutely beautiful. "It's gorgeous."

"It's made from stones my father kept at the palace. You didn't answer though."

"If you don't know my answer will always be yes, I'm doing this grand gesture thing wrong."

He puts the ring on my finger as we smile at each other. "It's perfect. All of this is perfect."

"It will be once you take your clothes off."

"Here?"

"Where better to consummate our engagement, and christen our future home?"

"Nowhere."

I pull him down on top of me, and our clothes seem to disappear as our mouths and hands take over. When he rolls us, so he's on the bottom, I know where his mind is; I've stopped breastfeeding, and he can finally play again. I've missed his mouth, so there's no complaints from me.

"So glad these are mine once more," he tells me, as he worships them.

"Until the next time."

"And the next."

"I only said one more."

"We'll see."

Yes, we will. I may stand up for myself, and fight when I have to, but deep down, I know I'll give him anything he wants. We fought hard for this fairytale ending, and my knight is worthy of everything I've got, and more.

# Epilogue

_A month later_

Noah

I walk into a familiar hotel bar in London, and take a seat. It's not the same bartender, but maybe that's a good thing.

"Are you Noah?"

"Yes, I am."

"I have this note for you."

"Thanks," I tell him, tipping him generously, before opening it.

_Noah,_

_You know the room number, and you know I'll be naked. Get your ass up here._

_Jyn_

This time it's short and sweet, because we've been in room 1017 all week. Mari's watching Cari—in Cyndryann. Yeah, some spark happened between her and Steve during the short time they spent together, and now he's officially courting her. Jyn's mother has given her approval, with some blackmail from Matt and Reina, and it's making Jyn happy to see her aunt have some freedom.

Speaking of Jyn, the things I've done to my fiancé over the past seven days are the stuff of fantasies. We've ridden the London Eye, visited the Tate Modern, taken in some plays, and even enjoyed some afternoon tea. It's been perfect. Especially when I walk into this bar every day, and get a new note from the woman I love.

Our story almost ended in this city, but we're changing the memories to good ones. We've vowed to come here every year, on the anniversary of the day I walked away, so we'll never forget what we almost lost, and we can celebrate what we've found.

# Untitled

**Coming Soon**

**Look for Keir's book, _Unexpected Company_ , coming in July!**

# Acknowledgments

### Thanks to my girls, as always!

**Helen Williams, who always knocks it out of the park with the covers!**

**And especially all of my readers, who can't get enough of my characters, and weren't ready to leave C &C yet!**

# About the Author

Crystal Perkins has always been a big reader, but she never thought she would write her own book, until she sat down and did it one day. She lives in Las Vegas, where you can find her running author events and selling books at conventions when she isn't reading, buying too many Sherlock t-shirts and LulaRoe leggings, or finding a place to put all of her Pop! figurines. In 2016, she won the Creative Initiatives Award from Romantic Times for encouraging literacy, and also the Community Advocate Award from the Clark County School Librarians Association. A mac and cheese connoisseur, she travels the country looking for the perfect version, while attending book conventions and signings as a cover for her research. The Griffin Brothers, Corrigan & Co., and the Society Girls series are all international best sellers, and she's thankful to the readers who made that happen.

* * *

Find her here:

www.crystalperkinsauthor.com

facebook.com/crystalperkinsauthor

@wondermomlv
