Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

"Ariana, don't put so much pressure on yourself. You're an amazing mother.

"By the way, the hospital called. We can take Tabitha to pick up her report tomorrow, and she can start her treatment immediately.

"I think that the hospital environment might feel stifling for her, so I arranged for the therapy team to come to our home instead."

I looked up at him, my voice choked with emotion. "Thank you. You've thought of everything."

Nicholas sighed and sat beside me. "She's my daughter too. What are you thanking me for?" He put an arm around my shoulder, his warm palm gently rubbing in silent comfort.

...

The next morning, when I opened my eyes, I was startled to find myself staring at Nicholas' face.

I blinked and opened my eyes again, only to see the same scene the stubble on his face was so clear I could almost count the individual hairs.

him and exposing his well-defined chest, which rose and fell rhythmically with

to check my own clothes. Seeing everything was

talking, but at some point, I must have fallen asleep. Suddenly, a

Regret that

over and pinned me beneath

his shoulders, but he didn't budge. Instead, he leaned down, making me

his breath followed, though I couldn't tell which came first.

spoke, his hand moved toward the first button on my

on his hand,

of them should take precedence

spiral

caught my hand and leaned his nose against mine, grinning

up my arms, and I turned away, feeling awkward.