Switched

Chapter 23 - Boundless Love

Kayden's POV

"Then prove it," I challenged, a sly wink accompanying my smirk.

"Don't try to push me," he warned, his tone authoritative and firm.

"Then prepare to lose her to someone more courageous," I remarked with a mischievous grin, casually shrugging my shoulders.

"I'll crush anyone who dares to steal her from me," Joshua declared through gritted teeth, his fists clenched in anger.

"Then show some courage!" I teased, winking playfully and gently caressing my stomach as if it were a baby bump, a cunning smirk playing on my lips.

With an exasperated eye roll, he stood abruptly. "You're impossible. I shouldn't have bothered coming here."

"Don't be so touchy, Baby Daddy," I taunted, a smirk dancing across my face. Irritated, he took a deep breath and stormed out of my office. I couldn't help but burst into laughter.

Serves you right, brother-in-law!

Now you'll learn that true love isn't always smooth sailing.

Hazel's POV

I was chatting with my family in the mansion after having dinner together when Kayden came, bringing me a bouquet of flowers.

"Here we go again!" I mumbled under my breath as he approached me and extended the bouquet of daisies towards me. "Thank you," I said dryly as I took the flowers and placed them on the coffee table.

I folded my arms over my chest, ignoring Kayden as he sat down beside me on the couch. As much as I told him that he didn't visit me whenever he wanted, Kayden didn't listen to me. He often came to the mansion and company, bringing me my favorite dishes, chocolate, flowers and different gifts for the baby.

"What did you decide about your 'beautiful' dilemma?" Kayden leaned in towards my brother, his voice low and secretive, yet still emphasizing the word 'beautiful' in a way that only I could catch.

Joshua let out a resigned sigh and whispered back, "Nothing different."

"Just follow my advice," Kayden winked at my brother, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips.

"Haze, when's your next doctor's appointment?" my mother inquired gently.

"Tomorrow morning," I responded, my attention momentarily diverted from whatever my brother was whispering to Kayden. I couldn't fathom how they'd become such close friends; I didn't even know what Joshua's issue was as his sister, yet this jerk seemed to know everything.

"I'll come with you," Kayden exclaimed eagerly as their clandestine conversation came to an end.

"No need. I can manage on my own," I asserted firmly.

"Haze, please," he implored, his eyes pleading with me.

""You needn't cancel your plans. Surely, there's plenty to keep you occupied at the company," I remarked casually.

He scowled, irritated. "Hazel, nothing's more important than our baby."

"Perhaps it's best if you two have a private discussion," my mom suggested gently.

"Yeah, let's do that," Kayden said decisively, getting up and offering me his hand.

"There's nothing to talk about..."

"Hazel!" My father's warning cut me off mid-sentence.

I sighed, feeling frustration bubbling up inside me, and rose from my seat without reaching for Kayden's hand. Though I felt his irritation radiating from him, he remained silent.