Page 97 of Anteros' Return

“I never planned on it, mate.” That was the truth. No matter what, I’d always find a way. “Why don’t you go and get changed? I think my mum and dad will be here soon.”

“Alright.” He jumped off my lap and bounded up the stairs.

“And how are you feeling about seeing them? I know it’s been a while.” I breathed, just wanting Emily to feel comfortable.

“What do you mean? I saw your dad when he picked you up a while ago.”

“You know what I mean. You haven’t been in the same room for years.” I tucked a stray curl behind her ear as she genuinely looked as though she wasn’t fazed by it. “You really are alright, aren’t you?” I chuckled.

“Of course. They were fed lies too. They had no idea about Liam being yours either, so I think we’ll be fine.” She placed her hand softly on my cheek as I kissed her palm. “I do have a question, though.”

“What is it?”

“Now that you’re home, do you plan on staying with them or…?” She blushed, glancing at her knotted fingers.

“I don’t know if I really want to live with my parents. I was thinking of looking for somewhere close to here to be near you and Liam.”

“What if you don’t look? What if you move in here with me and Liam?” She teased her lower lip between her teeth, anxiously waiting for my answer. “That’s if you want to. Don’t feel as though you have to just because?—”

I cut her off with a kiss, giving her my answer without speaking. She was adorable when she was flustered. It baffled me that she thought I’d say no to her. I could never say no to this woman. I couldn’t think of anything better than coming home to her every single day, cooking for her, sharing a bed with her, her on the left side and me on the right. She pulled away from me breathlessly, her eyes still searching mine for the answer.

“Yes, cupcake. I would love to move in with you and Liam. On one condition.”

“Name it,” she said with an eye roll.

“I get the right side of the bed.”

“It was always yours anyway.” She breathed, my breath mingling with hers as we remained within kissing distance.

There was a knock on the door, bringing us back to earth with a bang. I wanted to stay in our bubble for a while longer but ah well.

I strode to the door to welcome my parents, who were extremely excited to meet Liam and see Emily again. She could say she was fine all she wanted, but I knew she was nervous and anxious about seeing them again. I knew her better than she realised.

“Hey, Mum.”

“Oh, move, Beckett. I see you enough.” I laughed as she practically pushed me out of the way to head in Emily’s direction. I stood beside my dad as I watched her fling her arms around Emily, pulling her into a warm embrace.

“Hi, Mrs. Ashmore.” Emily closed her eyes, breathing a sigh of relief as I instantly saw her relax.

“Enough of that. You know to call me Joanie.” She cupped Emily’s shoulders with a welcoming smile.

“Move out the way now, Joanie. Come here Emily, love.” My dad pulled Emily into a tight hug as she chuckled at his attitude towards her. “It’s so good to see you again.”

“Dad?” Liam piped up from the middle of the stairs.

Everyone’s heads whipped around, seeing the little cutie waiting to be introduced.

“Mum, Dad, this is Liam, our son.” I crossed the hallway, lifting him effortlessly into my arms as he never once shied away.

“Hi, Liam. I’m Joanie, your Nanna.” My mum gave him a gentle wave, not wanting to overdo it.

“And I’m Rich, your Grandpa.” My dad held his hand out as Liam shook it strongly. “Wow, you’ve got quite the shake, young man.”

“Thanks, I’m strong like my dad.” Liam smirked as the room erupted with laughter.

“Do you guys want to head on into the lounge and I’ll bring in some tea? I’ve got plenty of cupcakes, too, thanks to that son of yours,” Emily tutted with a smile.

“Ah, he told you then?” Dad guffawed.

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