Chapter 177

Hayden burst into Carter Villa, gifts in hand. A smart massage robot for Patrick and Debra elicited gasps—it was far too extravagant a gift. Despite their protests, Hayden’s insistence won. He’d also brought writing tablets for Lillian and Kevin, loaded with educational games.

Their eyes widened at the sight. Jeremy grabbed his, scribbled a message, and pressed play. The tablet boomed, "Lily, Kev, I told you! My Daddy's the BEST!"

Lillian and Kevin nodded vigorously. Lillian looked at Hayden, beaming. "Mr. Hoggard, I want you to be my Daddy!" Kevin, equally enthusiastic, chimed in, "Me too!"

Stacey erupted in laughter. Kevin's mismatched phrasing—wanting to be Hayden's father—was too much. Patrick and Debra chuckled privately. Lillian quickly corrected Kevin: "He's becoming our Daddy!"

Hayden was stunned. A glance at Jeremy explained it all. Jeremy's been working his magic, he thought, making this so much easier! He crouched, gently embracing the children. "Do you want me to be your dad?"

Lillian and Kevin, while initially intimidated by Hayden's imposing features, trusted Jeremy. Hayden seemed like a wonderful father. "Yeah!" Kevin exclaimed.

Lillian, examining Hayden's face, giggled. "Mr. Hoggard, you're handsome! Like the uncles in paintings!" Hayden chuckled, remembering a similar comment from a young Becky. He smiled down at Lillian. "Will you let me be your daddy, and Kevin's too?"

"Yes!" Lillian cried, eyes shining.

Stacey, flustered, interjected, "They're young, Mr. Hoggard. It's just playful."

Patrick and Debra exchanged knowing glances. Hasn't Becky noticed yet? they thought. Patrick’s gaze sharpened, focused on Jeremy. That boy... he's orchestrated this, hasn't he?

Patrick and Debra discreetly slipped away, leaving the scene to Hayden and Stacey. Hayden knew they understood. The only obstacle was Stacey.

Lillian, defying Stacey’s attempts to downplay the situation, insisted, "I want Mr. Hoggard to be my Daddy! Jeremy says he's the best!" She hugged Hayden.

Kevin echoed her. Stacey was speechless. She changed the subject, inquiring about Hayden's journey.

"I just arrived," he replied. Stacey understood his swift arrival—concern for Jeremy. She reported on the children's good behavior. Hayden smiled, crediting Jeremy’s influence. He then asked Stacey, with a tentative smile, "So, am I qualified to be Lily and Kevin's dad?"