Yours Truly

Chapter 30

"Careful Little One," Owen said as he watched Mia crawl on the floor over to Max's ball. She had mittens on as she pushed the ball then giggle over her pacifier as Max ran excitedly over to the ball and nudge it back to her making her clap and bounce in happiness.

Just then she burst into tears and he dropped his pen. "What's wrong, Bunny?" he asked pushing his chair back and rushing over to her. "Ohhhh," he said as he picked her up and saw the puddle underneath her. "It's okay, Bunny, we can get you all cleaned up."

"Do you have anything for her?" Gabe asked as Marc began cleaning it up.

"No," Owen shook his head, "The brands we have tried have caused her to break out in a rash. She is normally good about it but I guess this medicine is affecting her and she didn't realize in her excitement of playing with Max."

"I'll go start her a freaking bath," he said as he rushed out of the room.

"Baba orry," she sobbed into his neck.

"It's just an accident Snuggle Bunny," he said patting her back. "It's okay, now let's go get all cleaned up. I think we need some bubbles, don't you?" She nodded and he started to carry her out of the room.

"I'll get clothes for the both of you," Gabe said as he emerged from the bathroom just as Owen walked into his room. "Just leave your clothes here by the door and I'll start the wash."

"Thank you," Owen said as he walked past Gabe into the bathroom then shut the door behind him.

"There we go all cleaned up," Marc said as he dried the spot and stood.

"She's going to be so embarrassed when she slips back," Nathan said as he took the towel from Marc.

"Probably," Silas nodded, "But knowing Owen he is going to help her through it and we aren't going to say anything about it. It happens, it's not a big deal."

"Exactly," Axel said as he came back into the room.

"Give, I'll start the fucking laundry," Gabe said taking the towel from Nathan then left the room.

Meanwhile

"There we go," Owen said as he poured water over Mia's back. "All cleaned up."

"Daddy," she whispered as she looked down at the bubbles.

"How are you feeling?" he asked gently as he sat the cup on the side of the tub.

"Mortified," she whispered. "I just want to leave."

"Thank you for being honest," he said as he gently pulled her against him. "There is nothing to be embarrassed about though."

"Your family," she started to say but felt him shake his head.

"They are not bothered either. Mr. Coleman has accidents at times when he slips and Max as well. It's easy to clean up and it's part of life. I promise, it is nothing to worry your pretty little head about, Darling. Now how are feeling?"

"A little better," she whispered. "I'm still embarrassed but I'm not wanting to leave as much."

"Good," he said as he kissed the back of her head. "Can you eat something now? You barely touched the blueberries Mr. Taylor tried to give you, you were too busy playing with Max."

"He's fun to play with."

"I know," He nodded. "But you can't take your medicine on an empty stomach and you didn't have a chance to eat at work."

"Food sounds good, Daddy," She nodded. "I'm starting to hurt."

"Okay, let's get rinsed off and get you feed," Owen whispered as he kissed the back of her head. "I'm so proud of you, Darling, you know that, don't you? So proud but I was also worried when Dr. Green called me to let me know. I'm glad you are okay."

She turned around and hugged him tightly. "I love you, Daddy."

"I love you too, Darling," Owen said hugging her.

He got them rinsed off and dressed, almost smiling when she slipped some leggings on then one of his grey shirts. He loved seeing her in his clothes. There was just something about it.

He took her hand in his and led her back towards the living room. "Remember what I said, Darling."

"Yes, Daddy," She whispered as he led her over to his desk. She gently pulled out of his hand and walked over to North. "Um, Mr. Taylor? She asked nervously as she gripped the edges of Owen's shirt.

"Yes, Mia?" North asked patiently.

"Will you um," she bit her lip, "will you please make me something to eat? It's okay if you are—"

"I'll gladly make you something to eat, Baby," he smiled. "Thank you for letting me know you are hungry." He stood and she rushed back over to Owen and sat in his lap.

"Good girl," he whispered in her ear as he wrapped his arm around her stomach as she leaned into him.