Chapter 224

Jeremy rarely held Becky’s attention this long. He whispered, "Becky pointed her phone at me and clicked for ages! Lots of photos!"

Stacey, though she’d snapped Jeremy from every angle, still felt unsatisfied. How adorable! she thought. Jeremy scribbled on his tablet: “[I want photos, too.]” He handed it to Becky.

Stacey smiled. "No problem. Let's pick the best ones and send them to Daddy. He'll keep them safe, okay?"

Jeremy nodded delightedly at Becky. Together, they happily chose photos.

Knock, knock, knock!

The door startled Stacey. She opened it to Hayden. He smiled faintly, then asked solemnly, "Can I come in?"

Jeremy pouted, glanced at Becky, then reluctantly nodded. Hayden entered, leaning over to look at the photos.

Stacey was surprised. Even though Jeremy’s only three, Hayden respects his space. He wouldn't enter without permission. What a good father!

"What's on your mind?" Hayden's voice startled her.

She turned, too quickly. Their lips brushed. Stacey recoiled.

Hayden's smile deepened. "What's wrong?"

Her ears burning, Stacey stammered, "N-Nothing."

He smiled sweetly. They both lowered their heads, focusing on the photos. Stacey didn't dare be distracted.

Finally, they chose the best photos and sent them to Hayden's phone. Jeremy immediately looked up. Hayden nodded. "I'll keep them for you."

Jeremy relaxed.

It was late. Sharon arrived, smiling, to call them down for dinner. Seeing Jeremy in new clothes, her eyes widened.

"Wow! Did Becky make these? They're beautiful!"

Jeremy beamed. Aww! I love them! he thought, touching the clothes.

Sharon, mirroring Jeremy's careful touch, admired the outfit. He's only three, raised by his father. Even his clothes are too formal, she mused. "Good, good. They suit him perfectly," she said happily. Mothers are best. Children are always cherished by their mothers.

Smiling, she turned to Stacey. "Becky, come on down for lunch. Grace has it ready."

"Okay, thank you, Mrs. Hoggard," Stacey replied.

"Don't be formal, call me Grandma, like Hay. You used to," Sharon chuckled.

Stacey, momentarily stunned, simply said, "Okay." She took a breath. "Grandma Sharon."

Sharon smiled, nodding. Hayden, his gaze on Stacey, had a hint of tenderness in his eyes.

Jeremy grabbed Stacey’s hand. Stacey smiled. Sharon grinned, delighted by their closeness. They went downstairs, enjoying their meal.

After lunch, it was nap time. Joshua led Stacey to the guest room. Before she could settle, Jeremy ran in, showing her his tablet: “[Becky, I want to sleep with you!]”

Stacey’s heart melted. "Okay, let's sleep together, Jeremy."

His eyes lit up. He quickly removed his shoes and climbed into bed. Stacey smiled, shedding her coat and lying down. Soon, both were asleep, Stacey’s gentle breathing a soft lullaby with Jeremy nestled in her arms.

Jeremy, still awake, thought, It’s so warm and comfortable in Becky’s arms. She smells so good, and I feel safe. I really like Becky. I only want her to be my mommy. He soon drifted off.

Unseen, Hayden stood in the hallway. He’d seen Jeremy enter Stacey’s room, and his prolonged absence spoke volumes. He must be sleeping with Becky, he realized.

Hayden pursed his lips. A thought struck him: Jeremy’s so attached to Becky. If we marry, will he try to steal her from me? These are thoughts better left undisturbed. He said nothing, and after confirming Jeremy was asleep in Becky’s room, he returned to his own room for a nap.