Page 49 of Spoil Me, Daddy
“That’s not all.”
Zaire pulled back, narrowing his gaze. “It’s not twins, is it? Because it would serve you right,” he joked.
Delia laughed and punched his arm. “No, asshole.”
“We got engaged, too,” Rod said.
“Wow, you two have been busy.” Zaire hugged them again and pulled back. “I’m so happy for you!”
“Congratulations to you both,” Aaron said, holding out his hand. Rod shook it and thanked him.
Zaire knew he didn’t want kids for himself, but he knew he’d be the best uncle in the world to them. He looked to Aaron, knowing he would spoil the kid rotten.
They spent the next few hours dancing, drinking, celebrating and commiserating in equal measures until Aaron declared it was time for them to go home. Zaire was secretly grateful for the news because he was shattered and wanted to sleep. As Aaron draped his jacket around Zaire’s shoulders and snuggled him close, Zaire let out a contented sigh.
“See you guys soon,” Aaron said, and Zaire waved at the table’s occupants.
He woke when the car door opening made him jump.
“Sorry, I was trying to be quiet.”
Zaire rubbed his eyes and realised they were at Aaron’s house, which felt more like home than his own did. “It’s okay. Sorry, I must’ve been tired.”
“You’re still tired. I’m taking you inside to bed, my sweet boy.” Aaron helped Zaire out of the car and into the house, removing Zaire’s shoes and coat for him. “Come on.” They climbed the stairs, and Aaron led them to the bedroom. After quickly stripping Zaire and slipping a teddy over his head, Aaron pulled back the covers and tucked Zaire in. Sliding in behind, he spooned Zaire and rested a hand over his waist.
“Daddy?”
“Yes, sweetheart?”
“Can we go to the zoo tomorrow?”
“We’ll see.
“Daddy?”
“Yes?”
“Can we find a cuddly toy for Rod and Delia’s baby, too?”
“I don’t see why not. Get some sleep.”
“Daddy?”
Aaron chuckled, the exhale warm on the back of Zaire’s neck. “Yes, Zaire?”
“I love you.” Zaire threaded their fingers together and pulled Aaron’s hand as close as he could.
“Love you, too, sweet boy.”
****
Five Months Later
Aaron
Aaron watched Zaire as he stood at the front of the assembly, reading the afternoon story to all the children. He was a natural and had everyone’s attention, including staff. Zaire made the story come alive by using different voices and, occasionally, props. It made the children ask for him more often than not when they had the choice of narrator.
Zaire was now fully employed with the school after a long discussion between Aaron and the governors, who agreed Zaire could work there as long as any decisions needing to be made, which affected Zaire in any way, would be done jointly with the deputy headteacher. They wanted to ensure they couldn’t be pointed at for favouritism. As soon as permission had been granted, Zaire had left the agency and joined the school full time one month ago, doing what he loved in Uma’s class.
