After what felt like forever, Hailey and Cole pulled away from the kiss. Cole placed a deep kiss on her forehead before releasing her. “I was so worried about you,” she said, tiptoeing to kiss his cheek. Then, she used her fingers to straighten his messy hair.
Cole sat on the chair and had Hailey sit on his lap. He brought her hand to his lips, kissed it, and immediately wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her possessively. He stared intently into her eyes. “Thank you.”
Hailey brought her hand to his face, caressing his cheek with the back of her fingers. “What for?”
“I thought I lost you.” The pain in his eyes was evident as he spoke.
“Why?” she asked.
“We were just getting back together, and then this happened.”
“So you think I would disappear into thin air when things get tough?”
Cole shook his head. “I guess I was too wrapped up in my own thoughts. I was scared and knew I wouldn’t forgive myself if I lost you again.”
Hailey smiled. Leaning closer, she placed a soft kiss on his lips. “I’m here. Exactly where I’m meant to be. By your side. If there’s anything you should know about me, it’s that I always stand by what’s mine.”
“And if it would make you feel better, I was furious, but I didn’t think ill of you. I was mostly angry at Vanessa, and I felt the urge to put her in her place. Debbie warned me not to go; Jessica warned me too, but I didn’t listen.”
“I hope she didn’t lay a hand on you,” Cole said, searching Hailey’s body for bruises or injuries.
“No. You need to trust me. I can take care of myself.”
“I trust you, my love. I just don’t trust her. She is evil and capable of anything. I don’t want you in trouble because of me. I would never forgive myself if that happened.”
Hailey shook her head. “I’m not scared of Vanessa. And if anything, I always believe the truth will prevail.”
“So you don’t care that the world sees me another way?”
“If the world judges you based on what one woman says, without knowing your side of the story, then they are the ones with issues. I don’t care about anyone’s thoughts. I’m just concerned about your business reputation. I know how hard you’ve worked to get your company where it is.”
“I know. It’s sad, but I’ll figure it out. For now, I’m just grateful I have my family.”
“I can always help.”
Cole shook his head.
“You’re refusing me?” Hailey tried to hide her hurt.
“No, baby. You have so much on your plate, and I don’t want to add pressure.”
“You don’t want to mix business with pleasure?” Hailey stared at him suspiciously.
A small smile appeared on Cole’s lips. “I’d be more than happy to use my wife’s connections, but I’d prefer that to be a last resort. I’m not refusing you. I just don’t want to burden you. I hope you understand.”
Hailey shrugged. “I know I can count on you. I just need you to know that you can count on me too.”
“Thank you, my love.” He kissed her cheek.
“I’m hoping you didn’t get into a fight with Vanessa.”
“Fortunately, I did. And I’m glad I did. I made her understand that she isn’t to mess with me or my man.”
Cole smiled. “Your man?”
“Yes. Turns out I don’t joke with what’s mine. And someone had to put Vanessa in her place.”
Cole’s heart swelled with pride, seeing Hailey stand up for him. “I gave her twelve hours to turn herself in, withdraw the case, and make a public apology.”
“Vanessa is crazy. She did this thinking I’d be at her mercy. I don’t know if she’ll do what you’ve requested. She feels bad for no evil she ever does. Her heart is as hard as a rock.”
“I told her I was going to give evidence against her theft in the company and all the terrible things she did to me, including the accident.”
“That’s a good one, but knowing how spiteful Vanessa is, I don’t know. Jessica is in talks with the right people already. She’ll let us know what my options are.”
“But thank you for doing this for us. You exceeded my expectations, and I am so grateful for your love and presence.”
“It’s fine. I really hope this gets sorted out today. I want to sleep with you by my side.”
Cole smiled. “Are you sure you’re craving just a sleep partner?”
Hailey blushed. “It’s not my fault you have bad thoughts.”
Cole chuckled. “I want that too. I’ve missed my sons too. They must be so mad at me.”
“Maybe, but they’ll get over it. After you and me, Debbie is the person they love most in the world. I know they’re in good hands. She’ll make them forget they’re mad at you.”
“You mean after me, you, and Bella?”
Hailey blushed. “You’ve still not forgotten about that drawing.”
Cole smiled, shaking his head. “Sometimes I find it hard to believe they are four.”
Hailey chuckled. “They are just like you: egoistic and charming. They know what they want.”
“I think I told your dad about them.”
Cole raised an eyebrow, a small smile playing on his lips. “You think?”
“It just happened. He seemed very happy. I never thought deeply about it, but I think Ollie and Enzo would be thrilled to meet their grandfather.”
“That will mean so much to my father. Thank you.” Hailey could see the deep sincerity in Cole’s eyes.
“They are so cute. I’m so happy for them,” Jessica giggled once she and Moore were alone.
Moore couldn’t stop smiling. “It feels so good to see Cole so genuinely happy. He wasn’t even this happy when he thought he loved Vanessa.”
“I’m happy he has Hailey. She’s a good woman. She told me I’m a grandfather. You knew that, right?”
Jessica blushed, not knowing what to say.
“It’s fine. Hailey told me they wanted to keep the twins a secret for their safety.”
“Cole told me the same. And if it would make you feel better, I’ve never seen them. But Cole tells me they look so much like him, so I guess they have some of your resemblance since Cole looks a lot like you.”
“I’m glad the news is out. It’s so hard to look you in the eyes and not be able to tell you such good news. I think this is where I’m to tell you congratulations! I am so glad for you and Cole.”
Moore smiled, wiping happy tears from the corner of his eyes. “Thank you. I’m mostly happy for Cole.”
“But do you think he’s going to get released today?” Moore asked Jessica.
He noticed the smile fade from her face, slowly replaced with sadness.