Dangerous Desires

54

Mark met his gaze, his expression serious. "I'm not saying you're incapable, Antonio. I'm just saying you're... different. And that's not a bad thing. You're a tough, no-nonsense person, and that's exactly what Indira needs in a protector. But when it comes to parenthood, things are less practical. They're emotional, they're messy, they're vulnerable. I just... I worry that you might not be able to provide what Indira needs in that regard."

Antonio sat in silence for a few moments, his jaw clenching slightly. It was clear that he was processing Mark's words, perhaps even taking them as a slight against his character. Finally, he spoke, his voice rough. "I've never claimed to be a fatherly figure," he said, his gaze unwavering. "But I've shown Indira more care and loyalty than any father ever has. I've protected her, I've comforted her in her darkest moments. Don't you think that counts for something?"

Mark sighed, his expression sympathetic despite his concerns. "It does, Antonio. I'm not denying that. You've done a lot for Indira, and you have a strong bond with her. But being a parent..." he paused, his fingers clenching around Tenebroso, "It's about more than just protection and comfort. It's about emotional connection, guidance, patience... it's about sacrifice and vulnerability. And I'm not sure if you're equipped to offer her all of that."

Antonio's jaw clenched tighter, irritation and defensiveness flickering in his eyes. The implication that he was somehow lacking a father figure for Indira clearly stung, his pride bristling at the critique. "I've made sacrifices for Indira," he said, his voice hard. "And I've been more vulnerable with her than anyone, including you. Don't stand there and act like you have all the answers and I'm just some careless, selfish bastard."

Mark shook his head, his expression pained but resolute. "I'm not saying that, Antonio. I know you've made sacrifices, I know you've been there for her. But it's not just about the big moments. It's about the day-to-day interactions, the daily support, the emotional availability. I'm not saying you can't provide that, I just... I'm not sure if you can do it consistently, in all the ways she needs."

Antonio's eyes narrowed further, anger now mixed with hurt in his expression. He was not used to having his character questioned or his capabilities doubted, especially not concerning Indira. "So you're essentially saying I'm not good enough for her, is that it?" he asked, his voice harsh. "That you're the only one who truly understands what she needs?"

Mark shook his head again, his voice firm but still sympathetic. "No, Antonio, that's not what I'm saying. I'm not saying I'm the only one who understands her needs. And I'm not saying you're not good enough for her. I'm just saying that parenting requires a certain kind of emotional involvement and vulnerability that I'm not sure is your strong suit. And Indira, she's been through a lot. She needs stability, consistency, and emotional support. I just want to make sure she gets all the love and care she deserves."

"But I think he is all of that..." I said quietly.

Both men whipped their gazes towards the sound of my voice, startled. They hadn't noticed my approach, engrossed in their intense conversation. Antonio, in particular, looked taken aback, his expression shifting from anger to surprise upon realizing I'd overheard their exchange. 

Mark was the first to respond, his face a mixture of worry and surprise. "Babe, how long have you been there?" He asked, his hand gently holding Tenebroso.

"For a bit..." I replied.

Mark's eyes widened, his expression filling with guilt and a hint of dread. He glanced at Antonio, then back at me, clearly torn between addressing the situation and wanting to protect me. Before he could speak, however, Antonio interrupted his voice gruff but carrying a touch of softness he rarely let show. "Did you hear the whole conversation?" He asked bluntly. I nodded at the question.

Mark's grip on Tenebroso tightened slightly, his expression growing more concerned as he took in my stoic expression. Antonio looked at me for a moment, his gaze unreadable. It was a long few seconds before he spoke. "What do you think about it then?" He asked, his voice a little less brisk than usual. He seemed almost nervous, awaiting my response.

"That I want him to be my Dad," I said gently.

Mark's eyes widened, his heart simultaneously warming and clenching in his chest. He could see the determination in my eyes, the firm conviction in my voice. Antonio was slightly taken aback, clearly not having expected such a direct response. His gaze flickered between me and Mark, perhaps noting his reaction before he spoke. "You... You're serious?" Mark asked, his voice gruff but carrying a hint of vulnerability he couldn't quite hide.

"I had this talk with you last night, why do all men not let me have my own decisions!" I walked out.

My outburst shook both men, each for different reasons. Mark looked a mix of shocked and worried, his gaze following me as I stormed out. Antonio, meanwhile, was uncharacteristically rendered speechless, the usually stoic man grappling with a mix of surprise and guilt. 

After a few moments of tense silence, Mark turned to Antonio, his expression conflicted. "I think I better go after her," he said, his voice rough and filled with concern. Mark handed Tenebroso over to Antonio, his movements a bit quick and jerky in his haste to go after me.

Antonio took Tenebroso, cradling the baby against his chest. The sight was almost comical, given his usual tough demeanour, but he seemed instinctively protective of the child. Mark rushed out of the room after me, his footsteps echoing loudly in the hallway as he hurried to catch up. "Babe, wait!" He called after me, a mix of worry and helplessness in his voice.

He caught up to me a few moments later, gently grabbing my arm to turn me towards him. "Babe, wait, please... We need to talk," he said, his voice filled with concern and a hint of pleading.