I’m already a surly bastard when I walk into Cole Security. Between my nerves about the paternity test and the memories of Ember, my head is fucked. Of course, Mark is right there to give me shit.
“I thought you would look like less of an asshole if you got laid.”
I glare at him.
“Oh, shit. She shot you down?”
“None of your fucking business.” I make my way into my office, knowing damn well that he’s hot on my heels.
“That means she did.”
“That means it’s none of your fucking business.” I snap, shouting the words, and his eyes widen. “The paternity results are due today. I’m waiting to call them, and I’m a little on edge.”
“She didn’t take any of that edge off?” Always wanting to poke the bear.
“She did until she fucking skipped out in the middle of the night.”
“What’s so wrong with that? Isn’t that usually your M.O.?” It dawns on Mark why her leaving would bother me. “Oh my God, you like her.”
“I do not.” The truth is, I don’t know what I feel. I just know I didn’t want her to leave.
“Whatever you say.”
“Even if I did, which I don’t, none of it matters if that test shows Amelia’s my daughter.” My phone rings in my pocket. Mark and I stare at each other silently as I pull it out and look at the screen.
“It’s the lab.”
“Answer it.”
“Hello? Yes, this is Ryder Sharpe… Yes… Uh-huh… Okay… Thank you.” Sinking down in my chair, I disconnect the call.
“Well? What’d they say?”
“Amelia’s my daughter.”
“Holy shit.” Mark runs a hand through his hair. “I kind of expected it, but it’s still surreal.”
“Who the hell are you telling?” Staring off into space in complete disbelief, I thought knowing the truth would relieve me—not scare the daylights out of me. Amelia is my daughter. Holy shit.
“Well? What are you sitting here for? Go give her the good news.”
“Good news?”
“I know you don’t believe it, but you’re going to make a great dad.”
“Thanks,” I reply sheepishly.
“What are you waiting for?”
I shake my head. “I know nothing about kids. I’m not prepared for this. I need to make her a room. I need to get her clothes. I don’t have a clue where to even start.”
“Now that I can help with.” Mark pulls out his phone to make a phone call. Thirty minutes later, Charlie is standing in the office with us.
“Hey, boys. What’s the emergency?”
“Daddy dearest needs your help,” Mark tells her.
Charlie’s eyes widen. “Oh, Ryder. That’s great news.”