The Unexpected

Chapter 31

Dominic sits on the couch watching TV with his feet on the coffee table. He knows I hate it but he doesn't quit.

I hate that he puts his feet on the coffee table. I hate that he leaves his clothes all over the floor. I hate that he never has time for me. The list goes on!

I sit down on the opposite side of the couch and turn towards him. "I have to tell you something."

"Can it wait until a commercial?"

Yanking the remote away from his hand, I turn the TV off and toss the remote on the table. I stand up and place my hands on my hips as I sigh. "I cheated on you."

He doesn't seem phased by my words. "With who?" He asks casually.

"Tyler." I breathe.

He shrugs. "It's okay."

He reaches for the remote and turns the TV back on. I stare at him in disbelief. "It's okay?" I repeat. "That's all you have to say?"

"What do you want me to say?" He asks, his eyes never leaving the screen.

"Any normal human being would be pissed off. You're driving me in-fucking-sane! I am really busy with the kids so I made time for us to be together and you show up two hours late." I yell. "You say you're working but I don't believe it. You're shady as fuck and I can't stand it! I can't stand being with you."

Finally, his eyes meet mine. "I told you before we even started dating that I'd be working a lot. That's how I am."

"What about your family?" I ask. "What kind of person isn't close with any of their fucking family?"

He stands up looking angry and I take a step back. "I'm not close with them. What the fuck do you want me to say? The only reason why any of them have ever talked to me is to borrow money. Can you stop fucking bitching now?"

"Bitching? This is the most attention you've even given me! This is the longest conversation we've ever had!"

He rolls his eyes. "You're overreacting."

"No I'm not. You're never here so what's the point in dating you? I'm done with this."

He sighs and drops to the couch, rubbing his hands over his face. "I work so much because I am in debt."

"Why?" I ask, confused.

"Gambling. I go to the casino every Friday and Saturday which is why I don't stay here on those days." He admits. "I met this guy named Johnny who works for this big mafia guy. He has underground casinos and big time poker tournaments. They gave me five thousand dollars cash just to start. I was on a winning streak so I placed a huge bet and lost double. I still owe them over one hundred thousand dollars and I don't know what to do."

I take another step away from him in shock. "You need help. Going to the casino more isn't going to fix a thing. You need help." I repeat. "Help that I can't give you. I have kids and you're putting us in danger just by being here." It's silent for a long moment - neither of us daring to speak. Finally, I speak softly. "You need to leave. Delete my number and forget you ever met me. I don't want to see you in my bar again."

He slowly gets up and begins gathering his things from around the apartment. When he has his things, he leaves without saying a word.

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After dinner, my mom brings out the presents. It's tradition to have our Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve. Then after dinner, we open all of our presents. Christmas day is usually spent watching Christmas movies and playing with our new toys.

But now that I'm older, Christmas is focused on my kids. I don't mind. Instead of getting me presents, my parents get the kids stuff. I'm grateful for their help.

Alex sits on the floor with his presents around him. He begins tearing into them with excitement. Addison I asleep so I use the time to open hers. My parents get her outfits, pajamas, toys, diapers, formula - everything a baby could possibly need.

After thanking my parents, I tell them Tyler wanted to see the kids. They say they understand and help me take the stuff out to the car. When I get to Tyler's, Alex runs to his pile of presents and Tyler's mom takes Addison. Tyler is by my side in a second. "You have to kiss me."

I stare at him in confusion then he glances up. Above us hangs a mistletoe. A smile plays on my lips as I gently press a kiss to his lips, counting slowly to three before pulling away. He holds me in his arms against his chest. "Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas." I reply, pecking his cheek before pulling away.

My phone begins ringing and I glance at the kids then at Tyler. He smiles, nodding. "Answer it. You can go up to my room."

"Thanks." I smile, answering it. "Hello?"

"Hey, baby girl." Matt's voice immediately makes me smile.

"Hey Matt. Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas."

"Did you tell your mom me and Alex are coming?" I ask.

"Of course." He says. "She has already taken a day off to spend with Alex. She said as soon as you land, she is taking him shopping. Then she added, so you guys have time to relax."

I chuckle. "I am excited to see you guys again."

"She can't wait and either can I. You know the guest house that was being built behind my moms house last time you were here?" I hum in response. "Well it's finished. It has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. That's where you guys are gonna stay."

"That is hardly a guest house. It's like a miniature mansion behind your moms mansion."

He chuckles. "You're exaggerating."

"Not really. So are you gonna be at the airport when we get there?"

"No but there will be a car there. My jet will be your flight so don't buy airline tickets." He says. "I already have it set up."

"I would argue with you but I already know there's no point so thank you." I smile.

"No problem, babe. See you soon."

"See ya."

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