CHAPTER 36

6 1 0
                                    

JAYDEN

Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.

JAYDEN

“Baby, I can’t eat anymore. I’m so full!” she whined, pouting at me, her eyes wide and pleading.

“You’re adorable, but I don’t believe you. You haven’t had any real heavy food in ages,” I replied, pulling her closer, my hand gently massaging her stomach. “Just a little more, okay? You need to get your strength back.”

“Have a bit more pasta,” I urged, lifting the fork to her lips. She shook her head stubbornly, mimicking a defiant child, which made me chuckle. “For me, baby. Didn’t you miss me?” I teased. With a reluctant sigh, she caved, taking a bite as I felt a wave of relief wash over me.

We had just returned from the hospital after our talk, and the warmth of her in my arms made me so happy. I needed to call Oscar and Lucas to let them know the plan worked, but I knew they could probably sense something already. Right now, I wanted to savor this moment with her, just until I felt whole again.

I had spent our time apart fearing she might move on, but the way she cared for me reassured me that everything would be alright.

Her voice broke through my thoughts. “Babe, was Shaina aware of this scheme, or was she in the dark too?” she asked lightly.

I chuckled softly. “Only Oscar knows for sure. Those two seem to have grown closer since we separated. But I’m glad something good came out of our situation. By the way, what do you think of them?”

“Hmmm, Shaina is one stubborn, strong, sweet girl with commitment issues. She’s never really given her heart to anyone,” she mused, a thoughtful frown creasing her brow. “Deep down, I know she wants a secure relationship where she can trust someone, but for now, anyone trying to get close will have a tough time. I think the most Oscar can hope for right now is a no-strings-attached relationship, but promise me you won’t give him any hints. He has to figure that out himself. Anyway, tell me what Oscar is like in a relationship.”

“Oscar doesn’t have commitment issues, but he can definitely be picky. When he puts his mind to it, he’s sweet, protective, and loving. Shaina keeps him on his toes, so I think he’ll be on board with whatever she offers,” I said, a grin spreading across my face.

I lifted Justine and set her gently on the couch, then turned to clear the dinner table and wash the dishes I had used while cooking. It had been too long since we’d enjoyed a proper meal together, and I planned to feed her more home-cooked dishes to nurse her back to her usual self. Today, I was brimming with happiness.

“Jay, I’m going to freshen up, okay? Thank you for taking care of me,” she said, leaning in for a quick peck on my lips before heading to my room.

✓✓✓

After freshening up, I settled back on the bed beside her, cuddling close. She shifted to straddle me, her hands sliding under my shirt, caressing my skin. “Why are you wearing a shirt in your own room?” she whispered, her voice low and teasing.

ECHOES OF THE PAST Where stories live. Discover now