The Harper Family: Second Chances (Wattpad Version)

Readjustment

Romeo

After settling at home, Ma worked from home while everyone else worked on the houses. I took a shower and cleaned my backside. Afterward, I dried off and slipped on a pair of boxer briefs.

While I searched for clothes, my bedroom door opened. I stared at Sage while she smiled at me. I grabbed a towel to cover my body. "What are you doing here?"

Sage strolled into the room casually. "I came to help you since everyone is busy."

"Could you leave so I can get dressed?"

Sage was making me more self-conscious than I already was. "It's not like I haven't seen you in less."

"It's different now."

"How so?"

"I don't look the same."

"Hmm, let me see." Sage removed my towel.

I grabbed at it. "Sage!"

She tossed it aside and circled me. "Hmm, I don't see anything different."

I tried to cover my upper body with my hands.

Sage grasped my wrists and moved my hands from my body. "Romeo, nothing has changed about you."

"I have scars."

"Yes, but they're proof you survived."

"How can you love a monster?"

"The same way you can love a monster." Sage gave me a reassuring smile.

"What did I ever do to deserve you?"

"You loved me when I didn't love myself. Let me do the same for you." Sage wrapped her arms around my neck.

I slipped my arms around her waist and kissed her. It didn't matter what I looked like. Sage loved me no matter what.

********
Ryden

I had to admit. My bed was much better than the hospital bed I stayed in. What was even better was having Daría with me.

I woke up, rubbed my eyes, and pushed myself into a seated position. I hissed because the skin was still tender. The door opened.

Daría ran to the bed to help me. "Ryden! You should have waited for me."

"Where were you?"

Daría placed pillows behind my back for support. "I was getting your breakfast."

I raised my brow.

Daría rolled her eyes. "Nora taught me a few recipes when I stayed with her and Matt. I wanted to surprise you."

"Wait. You were learning how to cook to surprise me?"

"This," Daría pointed at her face, "is more than a pretty face. I can do things."

I chuckled. "So, where is my breakfast? I want to sample it."

"Don't move. I'll be right back." Daría ran out of the room.

I laughed at Daria's enthusiasm. She returned with a tray of waffles, bacon, and juice and placed it on my lap. Then she waited. I cut a piece of waffle and shoved it into my mouth. I was pleasantly surprised at how good it tasted. I grabbed a slice of bacon and took a bite. It wasn't too crispy but cooked enough to crunch it.

Daría played with her fingers. "How is it?"

I chewed and swallowed my food. "It's fantastic."

Daría pressed her hand against her chest and released a breath. "Thank God. I didn't want to kill you with my cooking."