Page 23 of Executive Decision

Six years later…

Daphne

“Daphne, why aren’t you dressed?”Chandler laughed. “Darling, we’re pressed for time.”

“I know,” I reeled from the realization as he pulled on his watch.

“Well, as much as I’d love to throw you on the bed like that and have my way with you, I don’t think it would be advisable given what I assume you just spent on your hair.”

I self-consciously pulled on a silk robe and stared at myself in my wardrobe cabinet mirror, covering the longline bra and high-waisted underwear required under my evening gown. I met his gaze as he adjusted his tie. He looked ready for a party as I should have been, but I’d been staring at myself for the past twenty minutes wondering how to say what I needed to. And I wasn’t sure how he’d react. His smile faded. I pulled my robe closer and spun to face him.

“So, don’t freak out. I know with leadership elections… it’s not the best time?—”

“Daphne, we’re really running late?—”

I took his hands in mine. “I know. And I know you said no surprises, no changes, no nothing, but, Chandler, I’m… I did something and…”

My voice faded as I stared at him.

Just do it, Daphne!

“I forgot one of my small bags at home,” I said. “In London, I mean. And it wasn’t a problem until… now. It has some important things.”

“What is so important you forgot it?” Chandler groaned.

“Well, my diamond studs and?—”

“Daphne, you really cannot keep your head attached, can you?”

He threw his hands around, wildly.

“Well, that’s not what I’m most concerned about, Chandler. It also had my pills in it. So, without them… if you want to… well, we are in a bit of a pickle.”

“Are you saying what I think you are?”

I tread softly. “I’m saying if you want to have sex, you’re either buying some condoms on the way to the party or we’re just diving right in.”

He threw his hands up and I winced.

“Daphne, I am not about to hit you,” Chandler chuckled. “I know I said no changes, but it’s wonderful news! Yes. I want that. Why were you so worried?”

“Because I thought you’d…”

I didn’t finish the statement. Focusing on past squabbles and Chandler’s tumultuous temper around elections wasn’t helpful. This was progress. He beamed. I’d finally made himsohappy. He kissed me the way he had when we first got together—sweetly, deferentially. I felt loved up for the first time in weeks.

Mum knocked. “Daphne, we are leaving. Are you dressed?”

“Just wrapping up, Lady Danna,” Chandler answered. “I distracted her a bit.”

“Fine,” Mum’s footsteps disappeared down the hall.

“This is the best news, Daphne. Thebestnews.”

“I’m scared,” I fought tears. “I don’t know what will happen or if I will ever be ready.”

He cupped my face, rubbing my cheeks with his thumbs lovingly. “You will be a wonderful mother. And then you can quit your job for a bit and focus on that. Won’t that be a relief?”

I dropped my gaze and cleared my throat. “Yeah. Of course. Uh… I need to get in that dress before Mum burns the house down.”

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