Hey all! I am so glad to be posting the third chapter of this story! I said brfore that there is going to be time jumps, things may be confusing, and things will be moving faster than my other stories. PLEASE PM me if you have any questions. I am (I think) very good about responding to PMs.
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I DO NOT OWN ANYTHING! ONLY MY OCs!
ENJOY!
It had been four months since Mal had officially started her new nanny job, and moved in with Ben and Jackson. Things were going great. Better than either parent would have expected. Jackson and Melody were getting along, amazingly, school had started for the kids, and Ben and Mal were becoming… closer. Closer than they were expecting.
The morning after Melody's birthday, both kids scurried into Mal's room, trying not to wake her up. They both climbed onto the foot of her bed and sat there giggling, making Mal stir. She slowly stretched her arm up and groaned a little, making the two kids at the foot of her bed giggle again. Mal didn't open her eyes, but she smiled hearing them.
"Uuugh," Mal groaned as she sat up, and threw her covers over the two children that were on the foot of her bed.
The kids started to laugh out loud, making Mal smile.
"What is that?" Mal asked in a playful tone. "No one is in my room. Must be Ben and the kids watching tv," she said as she hopped out of the bed.
"Mommy!" Melody yelled as she pushed the blankets off her and Jackson. "It's us!"
"Oh!" Mal exclaimed as she turned around to see the two children laughing. "My goodness. I didn't know you two were there."
"Mommy? Can you make me and Jackson cinnacakes?" Melody asked.
Mal smiled, knowing Melody had told Jackson about all of the treats Mal makes. She had made her own recipe for cinnamon roll pancakes, and they were Melody's favorite.
"Well, let's go then," Mal said with a smile, making the kids jump off her bed.
They both grabbed one of Mal's hands and they walked to the kitchen. Melody and Jackson climbed to sit on the stools, while Mal gathered the ingredients that she needed. She was surprised, but in reality shouldn't have been, when she opened the pantry to see an abundance of spices, snacks, drinks, and other foods in the pantry and refrigerator.
"Now," Mal said as she put all of the ingredients on the counter in front of them. "What am I missing?"
"You have to sing, mommy!" Melody exclaimed in excitement, making Mal smile and chuckle at her daughter. "Mommy has the best singing voice," she said to Jackson who smiled up at Mal.
"Okay. What would you like me to sing?" She asked.
"Impossible!"
Mal chuckled as she pulled out a large mixing bowl, a smaller mixing bowl, measuring cups, measuring spoons, and a whisk.
Impossible
Mal sang as she scooped flour onto the large mixing bowl.
For a plain yellow pumpkin
To become a golden carriage!
Impossible
She sang as she started to add the rest of the dry ingredients, not knowing Ben had woken up from hearing her sing.
For a plain country bumpkin
And a prince to join in marriage,
Jackson and Melody climbed onto the counter and sat on either side of Mal and she cracked eggs into the smaller mixing bowl.
And four white mice
Will never be four white horses
Such fol-de-rol and fiddledy dee dee
Of course is
Impossible!
Mal helped Jackson down off the counter, swinging him around, and making him laugh as she set him down on the floor. She did the same with Melody, and then she saw Jackson and Melody holding hands as they started to spin around in circles. She turned on the stove top and took out a pan so that it could get hot.
But the world is full of zanies and fools
Who don't believe in sensible rules
And won't believe what sensible people say,
Ben walked out of his room and saw Melody and Jackson dancing next to the counter, and heard Mal singing.
And because these daft and dewy-eyed dopes
Keep building up impossible hopes
Impossible things are happening every day!
Ben crept forward and saw Mal coming around the corner to dance around with Jackson and Melody. The sight made him happy, and even more so because none of them had noticed him watching them.
MAL:
Impossible!
MELODY AND JACKSON:
Impossible!
MAL:
Impossible!
MELODY AND JACKSON:
Impossible!
MAL:
Impossible!
MELODY AND JACKSON:
Impossible!
MAL, JACKSON AND MELODY:
Impossible!
The kids followed Mal back around the counter and they helped her put the ingredients away, letting Ben have the opportunity to stand under the awning of the kitchen with his arms crossed over his chest and a smile on his face.
MAL:
Impossible
For a plain yellow pumpkin
To become a golden carriage
Mal grabbed the bowl of batter and walked over to the stove, and put a spoonful of batter onto the hot pan. She turned around and saw Ben standing under the awning, trying to stay hidden.
Impossible
For a plain country bumpkin
And a prince to join in marriage,
And four white mice
Will never be four white horses –
Such fol-de-rol and fiddledy dee
Of course is
Impossible!
She kept making pancakes and then pulled out plates from one of the cupboards. She flipped a couple onto the plates and passed them to Melody and Jackson, and let them walk back to their seats. She walked over and topped their pancakes off with icing.
MAL:
But the world is full of zanies and fools
Who don't believe in sensible rules
And won't believe what sensible people say,
She plated three more pancakes as she put the rest on an extra plate, and she kept singing.
And because these daft and dewy-eyed dopes
Keep building up impossible hopes
Impossible things are happening every day!
She twirled toward the awning and then stopped when she was in front of Ben. She passed him the plate that was in her hands with a smile.
"I didn't think you saw me," he said as he took the plate from her hand.
"Well, you weren't hiding that hard," she said.
"Dad!" Jackson yelled as he saw his dad. "These are the best pancakes ever," he said as he put another bite into his mouth.
"I can tell," Ben said as he walked over to Jackson. "You gave cinnamon and icing all over your mouth."
"Oops," Jackson said with a giggle and a smile, that made Ben and Mal smile.
"So, what did you have planned today?" Ben asked as he sat down next to Jackson.
"I planned on taking both Jackson and Melody to get their backpacks, lunch pails, and some other school supplies that they would need," Mal said as she leaned on the counter and picked at one of the extra pancakes that were sitting on the remaining plate.
"Okay," Ben said as he stuffed his mouth full of pancakes, making Mal laugh. "I'll give you my card before I head to work."
"You don't need to do that," Mal said, shaking her head. "I can pay for both."
"I bet you could, but you're not going to," he said with a smirk.
"What are you going to do?" Mal asked. "Fire me?" as she crossed her arms and smirked at him.
He shook his head and then walked over to the couch. When he came back he had Mal's wallet in his hands, making Mal look at him with wide eyes.
"No," Ben said. "I need you around to make me breakfast, but I will take your debit and credit cards, and leave you with mine so that you can't pay," he said with a grin as he took Mal's cards out, and then passed her her wallet.
She stood there with a gape in her mouth, making the kids laugh. She shook her head and laughed, not knowing what to say.
"Can I offer you a coffee, your majesty?" Mal asked as she leaned against the counter.
"Oof," Ben said. "I would love one without the 'your majesty," he said.
"Oh?" Mal said as she started the coffee maker. "I just assumed I should give you a title as such since you are going to be a royal pain in my butt," she said, making Ben laugh out loud.
Two weeks later Ben was rushing to get ready because he woke up late. He ran out of his room, and ran down the hall, making Mal, Jackson, and Melody jump.
"Woah," Mal said as she stopped tying Jackson's shoe. "What's the rush?" she asked.
"I woke up late," Ben said out of breath.
"Your meeting isn't until 10. You could have slept for another hour," she said as she looked back at Jackson. "Now remember. Bunny ears, bunny ears, playing by a tree. Criss-crossed the tree, trying to catch me. Bunny ears, bunny ears, jump into the hole. Popped out the other side, beautiful and bold," she said slowly as Jackson tied his shoe.
"Dad! Look!" Jackson said. "I did it!" he said as he ran over to Ben to show him his shoe.
"That's great, buddy," Ben said.
"I know! Mally showed me!" he exclaimed as he ran back to Mal and threw himself at her.
Ben smiled at the interaction. His son had had many nannies, and Ben had had girlfriends before, but Jackson was never this happy around any of them.
"Mommy? Can you fix my hair?" Melody asked as she walked up to Mal.
Mal nodded her head, making Jackson pull away from her. "Yes. Now, why don't you get your backpack, Jackson, and then when I'm done with Melody's hair we can make your lunches."
"Okay," Jackson said as he ran off toward his room.
Ben walked into the kitchen as Mal walked to the counter and sat Melody down onto one of the stools and started her hair. Ben had learned over the past two weeks that Mal preferred tea over coffee, and he even took notes on how she liked it. He watched as Mal brushed through Melody's long brown hair. She made three braids on each side of Melody's head and then tied them together in the back so that no hair was hanging in her face.
"Okay," Mal said as she turned Meloy's around in the stool. "All done and beautiful. Now, go and get your backpack then get Jackson so we can get your lunches ready before you both are late," she said, making Melody laugh as she jumped from the stool and ran toward her room.
"So, why would you be running late?" Mal asked as she turned to Ben.
"Well, I'm going with you to take them to school," Ben said as he slid a cup to Mal that had her tea in it.
"Oh," she said. "Thank you, and I didn't think you were coming."
"I may have hired you to be Jackson's nanny," Ben said as he walked around the counter. "But I am involved with all of Jackson's school functions and firsts," he said as he walked closer to her.
"I didn't expect anything less," Mal said with a smile. "You are an amazing dad."
"Thank you," he said as he smiled down at her. "You're an amazing mom too."
They didn't know how close they were, but they were close enough to almost look like they were hugging.
"Mommy!" Melody yelled, making Mal jump and turn to see Melody and Jackson standing behind them. "We're ready."
Mal and Ben smiled down at the two kids in front of them.
"Okay," Mal said as she knelt down next to them. "Let's get your lunches together," she said as she took both of their hands and walked into the kitchen. "What would you guys like?"
"Jackson?" Ben said as he walked up behind his son, and crouched down. "Do not forget your EpiPen. Remember, we went to the school and showed them that you knew how to use it, just in case you were to have something with peanuts."
"I know dad," Jackson said with a nod. "I have it in my backpack."
"Good."
After Mal had made their lunches and they had breakfast, the four of them walked out of the apartment, and outside to walk to the school. It wasn't a far walk. Only two blocks away. When they got to the school, Melody clung to Mal's leg, not wanting to go inside.
"Come on, Melody," Mal said. "What's wrong?"
"I'm scared," Melody said as she looked up at her mom.
"Come on, Melody," Jackson said as he took Melody's hand. "I'll be there too."
"But, you're not in the same class," Melody said.
"Why don't your mommy, Jackson, and I walk you to class," Ben said as he crouched down next to her. "Would that make you feel better?"
Melody nodded her head, and she gave Ben a shy look.
"Okay," he said as he stood up. "Let's go."
Jackson walked next to his dad, while Melody walked in between Mal and Ben. She grabbed both Ben and Mal's hands as they walked into the school building. They walked in and went to Melody's classroom. Her teacher was Mrs. Rogers-Beau.
"Hello," Mrs. Rogers-Beau said as she saw Melody walking up to her classroom.
Melody looked up at the brunette woman and gave her a small wave, but not letting go of Ben or Mal's hand.
"I'm Mrs. Rogers," she said as she crouched down to be eye level with Melody. "What is your name?"
"I'm Melody Drakos," she said quietly.
"It's very nice to meet you. Are you excited for your first day of Kindergarten?" she asked, making Melody shrugged. "I know it's scary when you come to school for the first time, but I promise you that you will have a great time."
Melody gave Mrs. Rogers a smile, before looking up at her mom who nodded in agreement.
"Why don't we head in and I can show you where your seat is, and then your mommy and daddy can take your brother to his class," she said as she reached her hand out to Melody.
"Oh um…" Mal said.
She was going to correct Melody's teacher, but both of them walked into the classroom before she had the chance.
"It's fine, Mal," Ben said, making Mal turn to him. "I figured that might be said, and it's okay."
Mal gave him a small smile. She was thankful that he wasn't mad about the confusion, coming from Melody's teacher. He held his arm out for her to take, and surprisingly enough she did. They both walked Jackson to class, and Mal told him that she would be here right after school to pick them up. When Ben and Mal left the school they walked back to the apartment, and Mal's arm was still loosely wrapped around Ben's. Not that she minded. When they had gotten inside, Mal slipped her shoes off, and placed them in the coat closet that was in the foyer of the apartment, and then Ben's phone went off, making him groan.
"Hello, Jay," Ben said as he pressed the phone to his ear. "No. I'm not going," Ben said, making Mal look at him with a confused look before he shook his head at her. "Because the last time you did this it was a huge waste of time and she was a horrible person," he said as he threw his hand out in front of him.
Mal then understood what was going on, and she walked into the kitchen. Jay was one of Ben's friends, and he was trying to set Ben up on a date.
"No," Ben said again. "Jay," Ben said as he looked toward Mal to make sure she wasn't completely focused on what he was saying. "I told you why," Ben said through his teeth in a hushed tone. "I'm hoping within time… you don't know that… well I do…"
Mal tried not to look at Ben as she started to make a grocery list of the few things that the apartment was out of. She was trying to make it seem like she wasn't paying attention, but it was hard.
"We'll talk about it later okay?" Ben said. "Yes, I am… okay bye," he said and then hung up his phone.
He walked into the kitchen and saw Mal making a list.
"Sorry about that," He said, making Mal turn her head to look at him.
"You don't have to be sorry," she said. "I should actually feel sorry for you."
Ben laughed, knowing what she meant. Jay had been trying to find a girl for Ben for the past two years, but Ben was never interested in the girls Jay had set him up with. He had small relationships, but they never lasted more than a couple of months.
"I got Evie to stop trying to set me up a year ago," she said.
"Well, Jay is very stubborn," he said.
"I'm sorry," Mal said. "You have met Evie, right? My very stubborn, loud, and nosey best friend?" she asked, making Ben laugh.
He looked at the clock on the stove and saw it was almost 9, and he still had to get a couple of things done before he left for work.
"Go and get ready for work," Mal told him. "And let me know if you need anything from the store because I am going to go there and to pick up a couple of things at the farmers market for dinner tonight," she said.
"Okay," Ben said. "I'm probably going to be staying late tonight," he said. "I don't think I'll be back before the kids are asleep."
"That's okay," Mal said. "Isn't that the reason you hired me?" she asked.
Ben nodded and laughed before he turned to finish getting ready for work. When he came back out about half an hour later he saw that Mal had changed into a pair of light-washed mom jeans, and the hem was rolled up just above her ankle. She was wearing a black spaghetti strap tank top, a cream lace cardigan, and a pair of platform strappy sandals.
"Do you need help?" Mal asked, breaking Ben out of his trance.
"Huh?" he asked.
"With your tie?" she asked, pointing to the united tie around his neck.
"Oh. Um… yeah," he said.
Ben knew he could tie his own tie, but he could use this as an excuse to be close to Mal again. She walked closer to him, and when she was close enough he could smell her. She smelled of honeysuckle and light lavender. She smelled amazing. She started to tie his tie, and when she was done she straightened it, and smiled up at him with a bright smile.
"There," she said. "You look perfect."
Ben smiled down at her. He looked into her eyes and he almost melted. He had never seen eyes like hers. Melody's were green, but they had blue tints in them. Mals were lilypad green, and they had golden flecks in them. They both walked into the elevator that led to the parking garage. Ben hopped into his tesla, and Mal got into her Rav-4. They both smiled at each other before driving off in separate directions.
When Ben got home that night it was almost 9. He walked in, put his briefcase on the dining table, and then saw a note from Mal.
You said you were going to be late, so I left you a plate in the refrigerator
Mal
He smiled at the note. He walked to the refrigerator and saw a plate of food and the kid's lunch next to it. He couldn't believe how great Mal was. He reheated the food, and while it was heating up he walked over to the table and saw that the lights on the lounge daybed that was on the terrace were on. He walked to the glass door, walked outside, and found Mal, Jackson, and Melody asleep on the daybed. Jackson and Melody were on each side of Mal, curled into her side, and Mal had her arms wrapped around both of them, pulling them as close as she could. He slowly leaned over and picked up Melody so he could take her to her room. He laid her head on his shoulder, and then she wrapped her arms around his neck, making Ben smile. He walked into her room, laid her down, and pulled the covers over her. She snuggled into her pillow, making Ben smile again. He brushed some loose hair behind her ear and then gave her a small kiss on her temple. He walked back outside and did the same with Jackson, and then walked back out to see that Mal had moved to sleep on her side. He slowly picked her up in a bridal hold, letting her rest her head on his shoulder. He could still smell the honeysuckle and lavender on her as he walked down the hallway. He opened her bedroom door, walked her over to her bed, and slowly laid her down. He pulled the covers over Mal, just like he did Melody and Jackson. He watched as she curled into her pillow, and his heart did a leap, for the first time since Jackson was born.
It was now the week of Jackson's birthday, and Ben was taking his parents, Jackson, Melody, Mal, and himself to Disney World for the week, and it had also been two months since she had started her job. Mal was waiting outside of the school waiting for Jackson and Melody. The belle had rung, and Jackson was walking out of the school, and he was hugging his backpack close to his chest. Mal crouched down and Jackson ran into her open arms.
"What's wrong Jackson?" she asked.
Jackson shook his head in the crook of her neck, not wanting to tell her what happened. He started to sniffle, trying not to cry.
"Hey," Mal said as she pulled away from him. "What happened? Why are you upset?" she asked.
She looked at Jackson's face and clothes and saw he had scratches on his face and dirt on his clothes.
"Jackson," Mal said. "Is someone being mean to you?" she asked.
Jackson didn't say anything. He just looked at her with glossy eyes.
"Mommy!" Melody yelled as she ran to her mom and Jackson.
Jackson wiped his eyes because he didn't want Melody to see him crying.
"Want to tell me later?" she asked.
Jackson looked at her and then nodded his head. Melody walked over to them and smiled brightly at Jackson and Mal.
"We're going to Disney!" Melody exclaimed. "Are you excited Jackson?" she asked, making Jackson nod his head.
They each took one of Mal's hands and they walked back to the apartment. When they got back they saw Ben standing at the dining table with plane tickets and theme park tickets in his hands.
"Hey," Mal whispered to the kids. "Why don't you both put your school stuff away and get your things, because we're going to be leaving soon."
Both Jackson and Melody walked to their rooms to put their stuff away and get their things. Mal took a deep breath before walking over to Ben.
"Hey," Mal said, making Ben look at her.
"Hey," he said as he smiled at her. "You guys almost ready?"
Mal nodded her head, but the look on her face made Ben look at her with worry.
"What's wrong?"
Mal bit her lip and looked in the direction of the kid's rooms to make sure that they weren't coming.
"I think Jackson is being bullied," she said.
Ben's eyes widened. Jackson was a nice boy. Why would anyone bully him?
"What? Why would you think that?" Ben asked.
"Well, when I was waiting for them outside the school, Jackson came out hugging his backpack. He looked upset and when I crouched down he sprinted into my arms, and he was sniffling."
"Who was it?" Ben asked.
"I don't know," she said. "He wouldn't tell me. I asked if he would tell me later and he nodded his head, but I didn't ask again, because I knew we were leaving today."
"Come on," Ben said as he took Mal's hand and started to drag her down the hall.
They stopped at Jackson's door, and then Ben knocked.
"Jackson?" He called as he peeled his head into the room.
"Yeah, dad?" Jackson called back.
"Can Mally and I have a talk with you?"
"Um… sure."
Ben and Mal walked into Jackson's room and saw him laying out the papers that were in his backpack, and most of them were crinkled up.
"What's all this?" Ben asked as he pointed to the stack of papers.
"Um… just some papers about school stuff," Jackson said.
"Why are they crinkled?" Mal asked.
Jackson didn't know what to say.
"Jackson sweetheart," Mal said as she sat down in the small desk chair that was in the room. "Is someone being mean to you or bullying you at school?"
"Um… no." He said though it wasn't too convincing.
"Are you sure?" Mal asked. "Because the sweet Jackson I know wouldn't cry for fun."
Jackson looked down at the papers in front of him and sighed.
"Jackson, if someone is being mean to you, you have to tell me," Ben said. "Or you can tell Mally."
Jackson nodded his head. "Okay," he said with a sniffle.
"So, someone is being mean to you?" Ben asked.
Jackson nodded his head. "Yeah."
"Do you know why?" Mal asked.
"Because I don't have a mommy," he whispered.
"What?" Ben and Mal said at the same time.
"A boy named Jared said mean things to me because I don't have a mom," Jackson repeated. "He says I killed my mom when I was born. I don't have a real family because I don't have a mom, and other things."
Ben and Mal sat there in shock. What child would say that? Jackson knew his mom died when he was 5 months old, so why would some kid tell him that she died at birth.
"When did this start?" Ben asked.
"Today."
"Why?" Mal asked.
"Because of this," Jackson said as he picked up one of the papers and gave it to Mal.
Ben and Mal looked at the paper and saw that it was a flyer for 'muffins with mom' written on the top.
"Jared said that I can't go because my mom is dead, and grandmas don't count."
"Hey," Mal said as she gave the paper to Ben and pulled Jackson into her arms. "You never listen to what this Jared boy says. He's just being mean, and you know what." Mal said, making Jackson look up at her. "I am going to take you and Melody," she said.
"But…"
"No buts. Butts are for sitting," she said, making Ben and Jackson laugh. "I may be your nanny, but I take care of you, watch you, play with you, and love you just like a mommy would," she said, giving Jackson a smile. "Now, what do you say? Can I take you to muffins with mom?"
Jackson looked up at his dad and then walked over to him.
"Can Mally take me?" he asked.
"Of course," Ben said, making Jackson smile. "Now, why don't you finish getting ready, while Mally and I go check on Melody. We're going to be leaving in about 30 minutes."
'Okay, dad," Jackson said.
Mal stood up but then felt Jackson tug on her hand. She looked back down and he waved for her to crouch down. When she did he wrapped his arms around her neck as tightly as he could.
"Thank you, Mally," he said and then he kissed her cheek.
Mal wrapped her arms around Jackson's tiny body and kissed his cheek before leaving him to finish getting ready.
"Hey," Ben said as Mal closed Jackson's door.
When Mal turned, she didn't have time to react when Ben gave her a hug.
"Thank you," he said as she slowly snaked her arms around his waist.
"You don't have to thank me," Mal said.
"I know, but I want to," he said and then kissed her on the cheek.
Mal's body felt warm after his lips touched her cheek, and she had never had that feeling before. Not even with Harry. All she could think about was how glad she was that Ben got out of being set up on dates by Jay.
"Why don't we get a couple of pictures in front of the castle?" Belle said as she pointed to the Sleeping Beauty castle.
"Mom, we already took about a thousand pictures just today, and we still have another 5 days here," Ben said as he threw Melody onto his shoulders.
"Shut up, Benjamin," Belle said. "Now, get over there with the kids and Mal, and smile," she said.
The entire day, whenever Belle had taken pictures, she would always make sure that Ben and Mal were in them together. She loved Mal from the moment she met her, and would tell Ben all of the time that he needed to ask her out on a date, but he had said no. He didn't want Mal to think he was using his place as her boss to fulfill his needs. Belle had noted that Ben never denied liking Mal, but she could also tell that she liked him just as much as he liked her.
They walked over to take a picture, and Ben had put Melody back on the ground so that she was standing in the picture. Belle and Adam stood next to each other with Ben and Mal standing next to each other with their kids standing in front of the group.
"Okay," the cast member said. "Say cheese."
Melody and Jackson yelled 'cheese' as loud as they could, making everyone laugh.
"Okay, let's get some fun ones," the cast member said. "Little man," he said as he walked over to Jackson. "Are you strong enough to carry her like a princess?"
Jackson puffed out his chest and picked up Melody, making her laugh. He struggled a little, and then Ben put Melody on Jackson's back.
"Great job, buddy," the cast member said. "Now, mom and dad, and grandma and grandpa. Why don't you pick up the girls as princesses?"
Ben and Mal looked at each other, but before Mal could correct the cast member, Ben scooped her up in his arms, making her shriek.
"It's going to happen a lot more," Ben said as he adjusted her in his arms.
"So I shouldn't even correct people?" She asked as she wrapped her arms around his neck.
"I'm not going to stop you," he said with a smile. "Because no matter how many times you correct people, they're still going to assume you're his mom."
Mal shook her head and laughed, but did agree. She may not be his mother, but whenever they were out and about people would assume that she was.
"Okay. Great," the cast member said. "Now smile."
Everyone smiled as he took their pictures.
"Okay, now let's have a kiss on the cheek," the cast member said. "1… 2… 3"
The cast member wasn't clear on who was giving who a kiss on the cheek, so when he counted down to 3 both Mal and Ben turned. Their lips collided, shocking both the adults, but either pulled away quickly.
Her lips were soft against his. Warm, soft, and inviting. Her plump lips just felt so perfect to Ben.
"Beautiful," the cast member said, making Ben and Mal pull away from each other. "My favorite pictures of the day," he said as he walked over to Belle and scanned her photo pass.
Ben placed Mal back on her feet, and both of their cheeks stroked pink.
"I um… I'm…" Mal started.
"It's okay," Ben said. "It was… nice."
Mal looked up at him and her cheeks turned a little pinker than before.
"Yeah," she said, nodding her head. "It was."
The rest of the trip was great. A little more than either Ben or Mal was expecting. They both opened a barrier that neither thought would be open because of the respect they wanted to keep for 'work'.
They kept close throughout the trip, but both made sure that the other was okay with crossing some barriers before actually crossing them. They had held hands a couple of times throughout the parks, shared a couple of hugs, but they didn't kiss again. They didn't want to push their luck not knowing either of them actually wanted it to happen again.
When they had gotten back to the apartment from the airport, it was really late. Both kids were asleep in the car when Ben pulled back into the parking garage.
"Remind me to never leave the park and then come home on the same day please," he told Mal as he turned off Mal's car's engine.
Mal chuckled as she stretched her arms. "Noted."
She looked back and saw Melody and Jackson knocked out in the back. Both hugging the stuffed animals that they had to have. Jackson had gotten a baymax plush and Melody had gotten a pua plush.
"We should put them in bed, and then I'll come out and get the rest of the stuff," Ben said.
"I'll come and help you," Mal said. "It's a lot more than what we left with."
Ben laughed as they both got out of the car and went to get the kids out of their booster seats. Ben unbuckled Jackson, but he curled into a ball making it hard for Ben to grab him.
"Here," Mal said before she unbuckled Melody. "I'll get him."
Mal walked around the car and softly started to hum next to Jackson's ear. It was a melody from a kids' movie, but Ben couldn't remember which one. He watched as Mal pulled Jackson out of the car and he was nuzzled into her shoulder. His sandy brown hair sticking up from his head and his cheek squished against Mal's shoulder.
"I don't know how you do that," Ben said.
"What?"
"Get him to uncurl after he falls asleep," he said as he walked to the other side of the car and took Melody out of her seat.
Melody was smaller than Jackson and whenever Ben picked her up he smiled. He never imagined what having a daughter would be like, but having Melody around let him know what it would be like. She wrapped her arms around his neck and rested her shoulder on his shoulder.
"I have magic powers," Mal said as they both walked into the elevator.
"You have more than that," Ben said, making Mal blush.
They both walked out of the elevator and put the kids into bed. When they were done they both unloaded the car, and realized how much they had actually brought back.
"I think we brought Disney World home with us," Mal said as she slumped on the couch.
"Yeah," Ben said as he flopped down next to her. "But they had a good time."
"Yeah," Mal said as she tilted her head.
"Did you?" he asked, making her turn her head to him.
"Yeah," she said, giving him a small smile. "I had a really good time."
"Good," Ben said as he grazed her hand with his knuckles. "I'm glad."
They sat there in silence for a couple of minutes before Ben cleared his throat.
"I… um…"
"You okay?" Mal asked with a chuckle.
"Yeah," he said with his own chuckle. "I just… I haven't… I haven't done this in forever," he said.
"Done what?"
"I don't know if I'm stepping over my bounds, even though I know I am…" he said. "I was just… I know that… I wanted to…"
"Are you trying to ask me out on a date?" She asked.
"Am I that bad?" He asked, looking up at her.
She chuckled at him and shook her head. "No, but how would that look to other people?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well… you're my boss," she said.
"That's what I meant by stepping over my bounds."
Mal sat there for a minute thinking. She knew she liked him, but she also didn't want his parents, friends, or others thinking that she is trying to get the best of both worlds or take advantage of him.
"Mal?" He called, making her look back at him. "Can I have an answer? Because now I am starting to freak out, and starting to think that the signals that we were giving on the trip were miscommunicated on my end."
"They're not," she said. "They weren't. Trust me. I just don't know what people will think."
"Like who?"
"Well, your parents, for one," she said.
"My parents have been trying to push us even closer together the entire trip."
Mal laughed. She liked Ben's parents and they seemed to like her. She and Belle had gotten along great, and Adam were very kind to her.
"What about your friends?"
"Jay has been trying to get me on dates for the past 3 years," he said. "The only reason I have dug my heels deeper in him to stop was becasue I like you. So he would be over the moon," he told her, making her laugh. "My other friends would be happy too."
"Okay," Mal said.
"Okay?" he asked.
"As in, yes, I'll go on a date with you," she said, making Ben smile. "But, under one condition."
"What?"
"You decrease my pay from 350 to 200," she said, making Ben's eyes widen.
He looked at her skeptically and then sighed. "Fine."
Mal smiled brightly at him before kissing him on the cheek and getting up. She walked over to the dining table and grabbed one of her bags.
"You know you should have tried a little harder," she said, making Ben look at her with a confused look. "I would have said yes, even if you said no to changing my pay," she said as she turned to walk to her room, leaving Ben sitting there with a gape in his mouth.
It had been a month since they had gotten back from DisneyWorld, and Ben and Mal were barely going to be going on their first date. "Are mommy and Benny going on a date?" Melody asked as Adam threw her on his shoulders.
"Yes, sweetheart," Belle said as he helped Jackson put his coat on.
Belle and Adam were over the moon when Ben had asked them to babysit. Mal had offered her dad, but he was out of town on a fishing trip. Though her dad was pleased to hear that the couple had actually agreed to go on a date. When Ben had told Jay, Jay had practically jumped on Ben in excitement, but that's nothing compared to Evie's squealing when Mal told her.
"Okay," Ben said as he walked out to say bye to Melody and Jackson. "Have fun you two."
"Papa and Grammy are taking us to see Raya and to eat pizza," Jackson said as he started to jump up and down in excitement.
Jackson had been happier at school. He had told his teacher that Jared was being mean to him, and they had a talk with Jared and his teacher. Which Ben and Mal liked a lot.
"Where is mommy?" Melody asked.
"I'm right here," Mal said as she walked into the foyer.
Mal was wearing a pair of black leather pants, a purple tank top, a black leather jacket, and a pair of purple peep-toe boots.
"You look pretty, mommy," Melody said as she hugged Adam's head.
"Thank you, honey," Mal said. "I want you to be very very very good for Benny's parents. Do you understand me?"
"Yes, mommy," Melody said.
"That's my girl."
"You two stay out as late as you want," Belle said as she grabbed Jackson's hand. "We'll have them put to bed."
"Well, not too late," Mal said as she put her purse over her shoulder. "I'm taking the kids to muffins with mom tomorrow."
"Oh!" Belle said. "That's right."
When Ben had told them what happened with Jackson at school they were livid. Belle had offered to take him and Ben told her Mal had offered, but he said she could go with them if she would like. Belle loved the offer but denied it so that Mal could take both kids.
"We'll be back after they are asleep, but not super late," Ben said as he offered Mal his arm.
She placed her arms through his and they started to walk behind Belle, Adam, and the kids. Ben and Mal walked to Ben's car and they drove off, waving at their kids as they drove past.
"So," Mal said as Ben started to drive down the street. "Where are we going?"
"I was thinking we could go to dinner, maybe a couple of drinks, and a stroll through the park," he suggested, making Mal look at him in surprise. "Or we could go to this little bar I know, and they have karaoke," he said.
"I don't know," Mal said with a chuckle. "They both sound great."
"I feel that karaoke would be the better option," he said.
"Why?"
"Well one, I feel that you would like it better than just a dinner and walk. And two, I would like to hear you sing again," he said.
"You hear me sing all of the time," she said with a smirk.
"So," Ben said with a smile, making Mal laugh.
The place was small. It had a bar against the wall, a bunch of small tables around the room, there were candles in the center of all the tables, and a stage with a couple of microphones stands. Ben led Mal to one of the tables off to the side so that they could talk in private.
"This place is so cool," Mal said as she took her jacket off and placed it on the back of the chair.
"Jay brought me here a couple of times when he was trying to pick up girls," Ben said as he sat down next to her. "It's actually the place where he found his girlfriend."
"Wow," Mal said.
The first time she met Jay was actually a week ago. She had taken Ben some files that he had forgotten on his desk in his office, and the first person she ran into was Jay. When he asked her what she needed, and she said that she was there to give Ben some files, he realized who she was. The smile on his face made Mal shake her head and laugh. He led Mal to Ben's office, but not before walking in and teasing Ben a bit before letting the two talk.
"He's fun," Mal said. "He's a good friend."
"He's the best. No matter how much of a pain in the ass he is," Ben said, making Mal laugh. "I wanted to say sorry."
Mal looked at him in confusion. "Why?"
"Because I asked you out a month ago and we are barely going out now," he said.
"You have been very busy," Mal said. "You have a couple of new hires coming in and on top of all that you had a giant case on your hands."
"Yeah," Ben said as he shook his head. "I am so glad that it is over."
"I hate to say it, but it's not going to be your last case," she said as she sipped the water that a waiter had placed down for them when they had sat down.
"Don't remind me," he said.
The night went on and two hours later Ben and Mal were sitting, laughing, talking, and watching others do karaoke.
"Up next we have Mallory," the announcer said.
Ben looked at her in surprise. He didn't know she had put her name down on the list, but she smiled at walked up to the stage. She stood on the stage waiting for the music to start, and Ben just stared at her with a gleam in his eyes. The music started and a spotlight shines on Mal.
Eyes make their peace in difficulties with wounded lips and salted cheeks.
And finally we step to leave to the departure lounge of disbelief.
And I don't know where I'm going but I know it's gonna be a long time.
And I'll be leaving in the morning come to the white wine bitter sunlight.
Wanna hear your beating heart tonight
Before the bleeding sun comes alive
I want to make the best of what is left hold tight
And hear my beating heart one last time before daylight.
Everyone in the room clapped in applause, and this was a type of singing Ben had never heard from Mal but he liked it. He liked it a lot.
And the canyon underneath the trees
Behind the dark sky you looked at me.
I fell for you like autumn leaves
Never faded evergreen
And I don't know where I'm going but I know it's gonna be a long time
'Cause I'll be leaving in the morning come to the white wine bitter sunlight
Wanna hear your beating heart tonight
Ben was in a trance watching Mal sing. She was a vision of beauty. The light he never knew he needed to see. And she was here standing in front of him, making him want these moments to last forever.
Before the bleeding sun comes alive
I want to make the best of what is left hold tight
And hear my beating heart one last time.
I can't face, now everything has changed
I just wanna be by your side
Here's hoping we collide
Here's hoping we collide
Here's hoping we collide
Wanna hear your beating heart tonight
Before the bleeding sun comes alive
I wanna make the best of what is left hold tight
And hear my beating heart one last time
Wanna hear your beating heart tonight.
The light dimmed and everyone in the room clapped in applause. She giggled as she put the microphone back on the stand, and then walked back to the table.
"Wow," Ben said.
"What?" she asked. "You have heard me sing before."
Ben took her hand in his and rubbed his thumb across her knuckles.
"Yes, but I have never heard you sing like that before," he said.
She smiled as she looked down at their hands. "Well, trust me when I say that you'll be hearing a lot more."
"Glad to hear," he said as he entangled his fingers with hers.
"Oh, you two are back," Adam said as Ben and Mal walked back into the apartment.
He had a sleeping Jackson in his arms and was just about to walk down the hallway.
"Melody and Jackson fell asleep watching another movie. Belle is putting Melody to bed," he said.
Ben and Mal smiled and nodded before Mal walked up to Adam and held her hands out.
"Here. I'll take him," she said. Adam gave Jackson to Mal, and she let him lay her head on her shoulder as she started to rub his back. "Come on, Jackson. We have a date tomorrow," she said as she walked down the hall.
Once Mal was out of sight and in Jackson's room, Adam turned to Ben.
"Son, I don't know how you found her, but please don't lose her," he said as he clasped Ben on the shoulder.
"Trust me, dad," Ben said. "I don't know how she is real."
"You have been blessed with those two girls coming into your life," Belle said, making Ben and Adam turn to her.
"I know mom," he said as he smiled and then heard Mal's soft voice singing to Jackson.
It's now the present day and Mal was getting ready for muffins with mom.
"Jackson!" Mal called as she was fixing Melody's hair.
Ben was leaning over the counter drinking his coffee and smirking as Mal was trying to do Melody's hair, while the little girl was falling asleep.
"Melody, I need you to stay awake," Mal said. "We're going to be late if you keep falling asleep."
"I got it," Ben said as he walked around the counter.
He had found a way to wake up Melody a month ago when he was trying to wake her up one morning. He walked around the counter and placed his hands on the back of the stood as Melody was drifting back to sleep.
"Hmm," he said. "I wonder how I could wake Melody up?" he asked. "Oh. I remember," he said as he picked her up from behind, making her wake up and laugh.
"Benny!" she said with an infectious laugh.
"I'm sorry, Mal. Did you hear something?" Ben asked and he started to spin Melody around.
"No, Ben. I didn't," Mal joked as she laughed.
"I'm ready," they heard, making Ben and Mal stop laughing, and Ben stop spinning Melody.
They both turned to see Jackson standing in the front of the hallway wearing a pair of blue jeans, a pair of black chucks, a lilac purple dress shirt, and a blue bowtie, and his hair was brushed and neat. He was matching Mal and Melody. He was super excited to be going to muffins with mom and was even more excited to be going with Mal.
"Well, don't you look dashing," Mal said as she walked up to Jackson.
She crouched down and straightened his little bowtie.
"Now if we could just get Melody ready we can head to your school," she said as she turned to see that Ben had started to spin Melody around again. "But I think your dad is having too much fun, and he is going to be late for work if he continues to play around," Mal said as she got louder.
"Fine," Ben said as he placed Melody down in her seat. "I do have to get going. I'm finally going to meet the new guy, hopefully, he's not stuck up…"
"Language," Mal said as she walked up to Ben.
"I just am not a fan of new hires at the firm," Ben said as Mal finished Melody's hair.
"Okay, go get your things and we'll leave," Mal said.
Jackson and Melody ran to grab their things, leaving Ben and Mal standing in the kitchen.
"I'm not a fan of new people, but hey," she said, making Ben look at her. "If I didn't get to know people, then I wouldn't be your nanny."
"I think we both know you are more than that," he said as he leaned down and gave her a small kiss on her lips.
Mal, Jackson, and Melody walked to the kid's school, both excited to be spending the morning with Mal. They got to school and got in line for muffins with mom. While in line they took their pictures, and both kids were smiling so big in the picture. Mal crouched down and hugged both Melody and Jackson and smiled. After their picture Melody's teacher asked her how many copies she would like. Mal had asked for about 10 copies in case some were ruined as time went on or if the kids wanted to have one for themselves. Which in fact they did.
"Okay," Mal said as they walked toward Jackson's classroom. "You have a wonderful day, and I will be here to pick you up right after school," she said as she gave him a kiss on the cheek.
"Thank you for bringing me, Mally," Jackson said as he gave Mal a big hug. "I love you just like a mommy."
"And I love you just like my own baby," Mal said as she pulled away and smiled at Jackson.
She watched as he walked into his classroom, with the picture from this morning in his hand. She stood up straight and walked Melody to class. By the time she left the school, it was almost 9:30, and she wanted to get some tea before heading home. She walked to the small cafe that she had had her interview with Ben. Jane had come to get to know Mal and she really liked her. They chatted for a bit, every time she would go in before Mal would head home. When she got back to the apartment it was a little past 10:30 she walked to her room to change into a pair of leggings, a cropped sweater, and a pair of Nikes. She wanted to get the grocery shopping done before going to pick up Jackson and Melody. It was 11:30 and she was getting ready to leave to shop when her phone started to ring.
"Hello," Mal said as she answered the phone.
"Hello, is this Mallory Drakos?" a woman on the other end of the phone said.
"Yes, this is," Mal said in confusion.
"Hello, this is Stacy the school nurse," she said. "I'm calling to say that there was an incident."
"What type of incident," Mal said in a slight panic.
"At recess, Jackson was playing with some boys and I don't know how, but he had an allergic reaction to peanuts," she stated.
"I'll be right there," Mal said as she hung up the phone.
She ran out of the apartment and into the elevator, she rode it all the way down to the first floor, and when she was out she sprinted out of the building and to the school. She ran and ran until she was at the school. When she got inside she even sprinted to the office, scaring the receptionist as she barged through the doors.
"I'm here… for…" she started out of breath. "Jackson Anderson."
The girl on the other side pointed to the door on the wall that said nurse's office. Mal nodded and ran to the room, bursting in, and rushing to Jackson who was asleep on the bed in there. She crouched down, scooping him into her arms, and saw that he started to stir. He had a red rash around his lips and was really groggy.
"What happened?" Mal asked as she stroked Jackson's head.
"The lady in the yard said that he was playing with some boys and then he started to cough uncontrollably," she said.
"Mally," Jackson croaked as he opened his eyes.
"Hi, Jackson," Mal said. "How are you feeling?"
"Better," he said. "I was scared."
"Why? Can you tell me what happened?"
Jackson looked at her with a worried look. He didn't want to be a tattletale but he knew he had to tell someone what actually happened.
"I was a recess, sitting on a bench," he started. "Jared came up to me, and started telling me mean things again."
"What was he telling you, baby?" Mal asked.
Jackson started to cry. "He saw the picture of me, you, and Melody and told me that you weren't my mom," he said.
Mal grew furious, and the nurse was covering her mouth in shock.
"He took my EpiPen out of my backpack. He gave it to one of his friends who ran off with it and buried it in the sandbox. Then Jared pushed me to the floor, and made me eat a peanut butter sandwich."
"WHAT?!" The nurse and Mal exclaimed.
"If you'll please excuse me," the nurse said as she got up and stormed out of the room.
The door closed behind the nurse and then you could hear her yelling from the other side of the door. Mal held Jackson close to her, making his curl into har, and resting his head on her shoulder.
"Can you tell me what else happened?"
"After Jared ran off toward the yarn lady, Melody gave her my EpiPen," he said.
"How did Melody get it if Jared's friend buried it in the sand?"
"She was playing in the sandbox," Jackson said.
"Okay," Mal said as she pulled him closer to her. "How is your breathing? Do you have any trouble breathing? Is your throat closed at all?" she asked.
Jackson shook his head. "I'm fine."
"Good," she kissed the top of his head. "Let's call your dad."
Ben was sitting in his office, finishing up some of his paperwork before his dad was going to introduce him to one of the new employees that were starting his first day. They were actually due any minute now, but Ben wouldn't care if they took their time or not. His phone went off, making him jump, but smile when he saw that Mal was calling.
"Hey, Mal," Ben said with a chipper tone.
"Ben! Hey," she said.
"What's wrong?" he asked because she sounded off.
"I'm here at the school because that boy Jared shoved a peanut butter sandwich down Jackson's throat," she said.
"What the fuck?!" Ben exclaimed a little too loudly.
"Here," she said as the phone went silent.
"Hi, Dad," Jackson said, making Ben's heart sink to his chest.
"Hey, buddy," Ben said. "What happened?"
Jackson told Ben what had happened with Jared and he saw red. How can a seven-year-old be that mean? He could have killed Jackson.
"Can I talk to Mally, buddy?" Ben asked.
"Yeah," he said. "I love you, dad."
"I love you too, Jackson," Ben said.
"Hey," Mal said as she got back on the phone.
"I'm on my way," Ben said.
"I had no doubt about that," Mal said. "Do you want us to meet you at home or do you want to come here?" Mal asked.
"No," Ben said. "I'll be going to the school. That kid is going to get in serious trouble, and I will make sure of it."
"He is actually already in the principal's office," Mal said. "The nurse was just as livid as you and I were."
"Well, she should," Ben said. "I'll be there as fast as I can."
"Okay," Mal said.
Ben hung up the phone and put it in his pocket. He shut his computer off, grabbed his briefcase, and walked out of his office. He was waiting for the elevator when Adam called his name.
"Where are you going?" Adam asked as he walked up to Ben.
There was a tall man standing behind him with dark hair and crystal blue eyes.
"Hey. I'm sorry. Something happened with Jackson at school, and I need to go," Ben said with a flustered tone.
"Is he okay?" Adam asked with a worried tone.
"Yeah, Mal's with him, but I have to go," he said. "I'm sorry for not getting a chance to properly meet you," Ben said as he stepped into the elevator.
"It's okay," the man behind Adam said. "I hope everything is okay."
"Thank you," Ben said. "Oh, what was your name?"
"Harrison, but you can call me Harry," he said.
Ben gave him a nod as the elevator door closed. He didn't want to be rude and not ask what his name was for the next time they met, but Jackson was more important.
Ben jogged through the school, and when he walked toward the office he saw Melody being taken to the office by someone who worked for the school.
"Melody," Ben said, making the little girl run to him.
He scooped her up in his arms, holding her close.
"Benny," Melody said as she wrapped her arms around his neck. "Those boys were mean to Jackson. They pushed him, and put his medicine in the sandbox."
"I know, baby girl. I know," he said. "Mally is in there with him right now. Do you want to go with me?" he asked.
Melody nodded her head, letting Ben know that she wanted to go see her mom and Jackson. They walked into the office and straight to the nurse's office.
"Dad," Jackson said as he saw his dad walk in with Melody.
Ben sat down on the other side of Jackson and Mal and placed Melody on his lap. Mal was still holding Jackson close to her chest. Like she never wanted to let go.
"Mally told me your breathing is good," Ben said. "I'm glad that Melody was able to get your EpiPen to the yard lady before something bad could happen to you," he said as he stroked Jackson's hair.
"I saw them burying something. After the other boy ran away, I dug it up and saw Jackson's name on it," Melody said.
"And I am very happy that you did that," Mal said as she brushed her knuckles over Melody's cheek. "I am very proud of you."
The nurse came back in and paused when she saw Ben sitting there.
"Oh," she said. "I'm sorry. Who are you?"
"I'm Ben Anderson, Jackson's dad," he said as he stood up while still holding Melody.
"Oh. It's nice to meet you," she said with a blush that made Mal give the nurse a small glare. "I just came to tell you that Jared, Brian, and both of their parents are in the principal's office. Would all of you like to go in?" she asked.
Mal turned to Ben and shook her head. "I can't go in there. If I go in there I don't know…"
"Okay," Ben said as he clasped her hands. "It's okay. You stay here with Jackson and Melody, and I'll go handle this," he said as he kissed her cheek. "I'll be back."
He placed Melody on the bed next to Mal and walked out of the nurse's office and toward the principal's office. Ben knew that these were seven-year-olds, but they almost killed his son. He was going to make sure that they received way more than just a warning or timeout.
"What are you going to say to Jackson?" Jared's parents asked.
"That we are sorry," he said with a pout.
"And you?" Brian's parents asked.
"Sorry," he said.
"You boys do know understand the harm that you have put Jackson or his family through," Principal Rogers said. "Did you know that Jackson was allergic to peanuts?"
"Yes," both boys said as they nodded their heads.
"Why would you stuff a peanut butter sandwich in his mouth?" Principal Rogers asked.
Neither boy said anything, making Ben grow irritated. He spoke up and told them what Jackson had told him when he came home the day they went to Disney World. Both of the parents were in disbelief at what they had told Jackson.
"You know he could have died?" Jared's mom said as she crouched down in front of her son.
"How would you have felt if you killed Jackson?" Bran's dad asked.
Both boys stared at their parents in shock. They didn't think Jackson would die from eating peanuts. They just thought that he would get a rash on his face.
"We're sorry!" They both cried. "We didn't know!"
"We aren't the people you should be apologizing to," Principal Rogers said. "You need to apologize to Jackson and his family."
"We're sorry, Mr. Anderson!" they cried as they looked up at Ben.
Ben was too mad at the boys to say anything, and he didn't want to say anything to make his anger come out.
"Why don't you apologize to Jackson," he said. "I bet he would like it more than me."
Both of the boys ran out of the room, letting the door close behind them.
"Okay," Principal Rogers said, making the parents turn to him. "I never like doing this, but because of what they did. I am going to have to suspend the boys for the rest of the semester."
"That is understandable," Jared's mom said. "I'm not happy about it, but I would want the same for the other child if the roles were reversed."
"They may come back after winter break, but if the bullying continues, they will be expelled," Principal Rogers said.
"It won't," Brian's dad said. "And we are sorry, Ben. we really are."
Ben was still mad. He gave them a stiff nod before they walked out of the office to get their sons.
"I am sorry for what happened today," Principal Rogers said. "You are free to take Jackson home, and he is excused for the rest of the week," he said.
"I'm going to be taking Melody too," Ben said.
"But…"
"I'm not leaving one of my kids in school, while the other is at home. She'll be here tomorrow, but I am taking her home today," he said.
"Okay, Mr. Anderson."
Ben, Mal, and the kids walked back into the apartment with a kid in each of their arms.
"Okay," Ben said as he closed the door behind him. "Jackson, do you want to lay down in bed or do you want to watch a movie with Mally, Melody, and I?"
"Can I take a nap?" he asked. "I'm tired."
"Yeah, buddy," Ben said as he looked at Jackson in his arms.
"Can Mally take me?"
"Come on," Mal said as she put Melody down on the floor.
She walked over to Ben and took Jackson into her arms. She walked down the hall and into his room. She helped him change into a pair of pajamas and then helped him to bed.
"Mally," Jackson said as he grabbed her hand. "Will you sing to me?"
Mal smiled at Jackson before she sat next to him, putting her back on his headboard, and him curling into her side.
Come stop your crying
It will be alright
Just take my hand
Hold it tight
I will protect you
From all around you
I will be here
Don't you cry
She started to stroke his hair as she sang, not knowing that Ben was on the other side of the door listening, after he changed, and was waiting for Melody while he changed.
For one so small
You seem so strong
My arms will hold you
Keep you safe and warm
This bond between us
Can't be broken
I will be here don't you cry
Jackson wrapped his arms around Mal's torso, not wanting to let her go. He may have only known Mal for four and a half months, but he loved her so much and never wanted her to leave.
'Cause you'll be in my heart
Yes, you'll be in my heart
From this day on
Now and forever more
You'll be in my heart
No matter what they say
You'll be here in my heart
Always
"Mally?" Jackson said as he looked up at her.
"Yes, baby," Mal said as she brushed some hair out of his eyes.
"Will you be with me for always?" he asked.
Mal looked down at him and smiled. She leaned down and kissed the top of her head. "Always," she whispered against his forehead. "I will be with you forever."
"Mally?" he asked again, making her look at him again. "I wish you were my mommy."
"I may not be your mommy, but you and Melody are my babies," she said as she gave him another kiss on his head.
"I love you, Mally," he said as he started to fall asleep.
"I love you more, Jackson."
Ben smiled hearing the two talk. He heard a noise from behind him and turned to see that Melody walked out of her room with a blanket and her pua. She looked up at Ben, and he picked her up so they could make popcorn and get the movie ready before Mal came out to join them. He sat on the couch with Melody curled into his side as she ate popcorn. He looked down at her and couldn't help but smile. Listening to Mal tell Jackson how much he meant to her, and how much she loved him, made him fully realize that he felt the same way about Melody. He adored and loved Melody just as much as he did Jackson. He would move heaven and earth for all three of them, and he was going to make sure that no one would ruin this for any of them.
Alright! That is it for now! Please let me know what you think!
Until next time my lovies, xoxo GM
