Surprises
Chapter 9
Mike wasn't sure what even possessed him to walk into the jewelry store and buy the ring. It was a very nice ring. Much nicer than Christine's had been. He was very clear on what he wanted.
He would marry Maddie to protect her and her baby. He would raise that baby as his own. Maybe it was because he wanted a family again. Maybe he was scared she would leave and take Oliver with her. He only hoped she would say yes, even if it was only a marriage of convenience.
He drove home and smiled as soon as he walked in. Maddie and Oliver were sound asleep on the couch. He put a throw blanket over them and then put the ring away; knowing he would have to find the perfect moment to talk to Maddie.
While they slept; Mike planned. He wanted to give Maddie a nice wedding if she wanted it. He personally didn't want a huge one but if she did, he was fine. He and Christine had had a very small wedding because it was all they could afford, but he could afford a much nicer wedding if Maddie said yes. He just knew he had to communicate that she didn't have to marry him to still have his protection.
Maddie cooked them dinner and they gave Oliver a bath together. It was one of Oliver's favorite activities and Mike loved watching him splash around. Once it warmed up, Mike intended on teaching him to swim.
The late nap made it difficult to get him to sleep and it ended up that both Mike and Maddie had to lay down with Oliver and then it was still almost eleven before he fell asleep.
Mike followed Maddie into the kitchen where she made herself some hot tea. He had retrieved the ring and put it in his pocket while he waited for her, struck by nerves and not knowing what else to do.
"Mike; if you want to go to bed; go ahead. I'm just going to drink this and will be in soon." Maddie said.
"I…actually…wanted to talk to you. I…I know…" Mike started.
"Mike, just spit it out." Maddie said.
"I…know you said you wanted me to think about it. I have. Regardless of your answer, you have a home here for you and this baby, and Oliver; of course. You're safe." Mike started.
"Mike?" Maddie asked.
"I wanted this to be more…romantic, I suppose. I know you probably want something more…but, here…?" Mike said. He laid the ring on the counter and walked away, not sure what the answer would be.
He fell into a fitful sleep. Maddie didn't wake him up to tell him her answer. That was not a good omen. He was a bit shocked to feel Oliver climb into bed with him about four am. It had started storming and the little boy immediately cuddled up.
"Oliver, Mommy is in her bed." Mike said.
"I know. I'm scared, Daddy. Can I stay in here?" Oliver asked.
"Of course." Mike answered. He tucked the blankets around Oliver and rubbed his back until he fell asleep. All Mike knew was that he loved having Oliver close and hoped he hadn't ruined his chances with Maddie.