“Jesus, you fucking crazy?”
“I need to know that you understand me.”
“Yeah, I get it, Demon. Fuck. Sometimes, I forget why you’re named that way.”
He released her and stepped back.
“You can be a real asshole when you want.” She ground out the cigarette, rubbing her abused flesh.
“Only when you make me.”
“I get it okay. Play nice with Ardy. It isn’t fucking hard. I mean shit, she’s like Betty Crocker or something, all pretty and sweet. The last person I’d pick for you.”
Gia’s grumbling made him chuckle. “Yeah, she’s the shit, isn’t she?”
“Ugh, just go in the house
before you make me sick.” She waved him off.
Now, he knew they’d cleared the air. She didn’t want him. It’s the security he provided she craved. Better make your move soon, Lefty, before she does something fucking stupid. Pleased with their conversation he left her on the porch. He stepped in the house and found Ardy alone on the couch watching a cooking show. “Where are the kids?” he asked, glancing around.
“It’s nap time.”
“Shit, you got them on a schedule?”
She glanced up at him and scowled. “Yes, little people need that shit.”
“Don’t they need to free to be their mini selves?”
“Umm…No, there lies the path of anarchy and I ain’t having it.” She crossed her arms beneath her breasts.
The corners of his mouth twitched. “Awhhh shit, little mama is getting riled up.”
“Do not call me that, I’m not a rapper.”
He plopped down on the couch and rested his head in her lap. “No, but you are little and a Mama now.”
She blinked. Her hazel eyes grew unfocused.
Demon tensed. “You don’t like that ideal.”
“No, I do.” Her voice wavered. “I like it too much.”
“Don’t you turn on the water works. You’ve been more of a mother to them in the past few months, than their mother has her entire life. When I get my way, that shit will be official.”
“Wait, what?” Her eyes practically popped out of her head as she gawked at him.
“Come on, you can’t be surprised.”
“Did you—is that a proposal?”
“No baby, that’s a notice of intention. When I ask you, you’ll know.” He closed his eyes and enjoyed the softness of her body and her sweet scent as he allowed himself a few moments of peace before he announced he had to leave. “You’re going to be okay while I’m gone, right?” he asked while eyeballing Ardy who’d been silent since he announced he needed to head out.
“I don’t do cat fights, Jonah.” She huffed.
“No, you’re more the bar type. That’s what worries me. Don’t bust my place up okay, Irish?”
“Shut up.” Her accent thickened.