Page 66 of Absolution

As their relationship had grown roots, Ella thought she’d known true affection from Tucker. He’d certainly kept hisword, protecting her from the madman he suspected to be his father and any other threats he deemed to be a concern. He’d become more loving, too, playing the gentle giant from the moment their daughter had been born. That didn’t stop him from continuing to dominate her in bed, however, and she adored him for that.

They’d found the perfect balance to their twisted romance. Their happily ever after.

“This one’s not, though.” She winced as the baby in her womb performed another somersault. “They’re wide awake.”

“Any regrets that we didn’t find out the sex?” He placed his palm over her hand.

“None.” She leaned back and briefly closed her eyes. Taylor had the right idea about a nap. Ella wished she could do the same. “Having a baby is one of the few true surprises left in the world. We’ll find out when they’re born.”

“Yes, ma’am.” He winked at her, patting her hand lightly. “Whatever you say.”

“Tease.” She smirked, “We both know that’s not how this works.”

“True.” He rose and took the seat beside her. “I’m happy to keep wearing the trousers.”

“Good.” Ella glanced at their sleeping daughter’s image as she snuggled in beside him. “That’s what we agreed to, sir.”

She recalled the conversation they’d shared when they’d discovered she was pregnant with Taylor. She’d happily agreed to be his, reveling in his authority and protection, and shestood by her instincts to submit to him. Tucker was the most capable man she’d ever met. He deserved devotion.

“Are you still happy, little girl?” His serious tone drew her attention from her memories.

“What?” She frowned, unsure if she’d heard him correctly. “Of course, I am. I love you, Tucker, and our amazing life.”

“I’m glad.” He kissed the top of her head. “I love you, too, but I still worry about the threat Kenner poses. I chose not to kill him because I want to be a better man for you and Taylor, but he’s still out there.”

“Don’t worry.” She breathed in his spicy sandalwood scent. It always turned her on. “We haven’t heard anything from him for years, sir. He heeded your warning, and he’s left us alone.”

“I know.” Uncertainty echoed in his voice. “But I can’t help worrying.”

“Kenner met his match in you, Tucker.” She kissed his shirt. “You take care of us, and we love you for it.”

“I’ll always take care of you, little girl.” He wrapped an arm around her. “You and the children are everything to me. I can’t even remember what my life was like without you all.”

“I don’t want to think about life without you.” She pressed her head to his chest and listened to the soothing sound of his beating heart.

At moments like this, she was so thankful for Alexander’s intervention. Without her father, the two of them would never have met. Without him, the incredible life sheand Tucker had created together could never have happened. She was so glad her father had pulled through after Collins’ attack, and even though she wasn’t as close to him as she was with Susie, she was happy to have him in Taylor’s life—even if family get-togethers could sometimes be a little awkward when he and Tucker talked about old times.

“Then, let’s not.” He eased her to her side and rose to his full height, lifting her feet to the place he’d been sitting. “You rest here, and I’ll carry Taylor to her bed.”

“Are you sure, sir?” Ella asked after him, although her lids were already heavy as she nuzzled her head into the cushion. Sleep was a soothing friend now. Her old bad dreams were history.

“I’m sure.” He paused by the door, turning back to smile at her. “Sweet dreams, little girl. I’ll be here when you wake up.”