Bonus Chapter

Maya’s P.O.V

I pulled up to the front of the primary which Brianna and Aiden were enrolled at. I’d gotten off work earlier than usual, so I thought I might as well pick them up on my way home. The truth is, I’d been feeling a bit off lately, and the sudden dizzy spell I’d gotten when I was right in the middle of a presentation to some potential clients for the marketing firm I worked at. My boss insisted I go to the doctor, but as usual my stubborn self didn’t want to, until he literally escorted me there.

And when I found out what had me all over the place these past few weeks, it all started to make sense.

To be honest, I wasn’t that surprised since I’d overlooked the writing on the wall. Theodore and I had tied the knot a little over six months ago, and let’s just say we’ve been pretty busy ever since, if you get my drift. I don’t know why we always behaved like a pair of high schoolers in love, but I’m sure it had to do with the fact that we rarely see each other during the day so we have to make up for it whenever we get the chance, especially at night, that is, if either of us is not out working late.

I bit my lip as my finger tapped the steering wheel of the Porsche I recently bought as I waited for them to emerge through the front gates. Today, they would be let out at three thirty, since they both had afterschool sporting activities.

Both now eight, the little munchkin brats had matured a lot more and had grown a taller as well. I didn’t know that I’d be capable of loving the both of them like we actually shared the same blood; but that didn’t matter because Aiden and Brianna are my kids, and they always will be. The bond we’ve shared since they warmed up to me all those years ago had only grown stronger. It made my heart melt every time that they made sure to make me feel like their mother, and had even invited me on a few occasions to meet their biological mother.

Let’s just say Dana and I are at least on speaking terms, although I’m not particularly fond of what she’d done to Theodore. I know it’s isn’t any of my business, but I do pity her for letting such a fine man like him slip by her so easily.

If that hadn’t been the case, then him and I wouldn’t have met and we certainly wouldn’t be happily married right now…

Besides, I’m not complaining in the slightest because it’s also thanks to her that I have the best family in the world, a family that is about to get a little bigger too…

The door to the back seat opened and two little, well not so little anymore, beings scooted in. “Maya! I’m so glad you picked us up!” Aiden said cheerfully and leaned over the central console to hug me, and place a big kiss on my cheek. “Aren’t you supposed to be at work?” he asked.

Brianna smiled at me from the view mirror. “We thought we’d have to endure yet another boring car ride with Leslie,” she huffed and rolled her eyes.

I laughed at this. “What? Leslie isn’t that bad, is he guys?” So, I still have no clue as to why Leslie was still under Theodore’s employ after all this time. I knew for a fact that he still held a tiny grudge against him for that one time we went on a date, which resulted in him being switched jobs like no man’s business. After a lot of convincing, Theodore finally let him have his job back as the family driver, much to Leslie’s relief.

Aiden scoffed. “He is so boring! Always telling us about his girlfriend and how amayyzing she is. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that man is totally whipped,” he cajoled and slapped his knee for good measure.

I shook my head in amusement before starting the car up again and backing out of the parking lot. “So, how was soccer practice guys?” I inquired, keeping my focus on the road. They both started playing soccer last year, and just like poker, they were already pros. There is just something about the Dukes’ genes that makes them exceptionally good at everything. I hope that this little bun in the oven will be just like that.

“It was fantastic! My team has a match next weekend. I cannot wait to kick St John’s arses!” Aiden said loudly in raw excitement, and earned a whack from his sister.

“Language! You know Maya and dad don’t want us speaking like that,” she hissed at him, and added a few more slaps but Aiden isn’t one to just sit back and take it so he threw in a few of his own.

I sighed. “Guys, stop fighting. Aiden, your sister is right, no cursing. I have told you countless times to not watch those R rated movies but you never listen,” I tsked in mock disappointment. “And just for that, I’m not going to tell you a secret.”

The truth is, I had no idea how they would take the news. The same goes for everyone else back at home, especially Theodore. Would they all be elated or they’d be indifferent about it? I had to admit, the reality of the situation had begun to sink deep within me and now my nerves were nothing but hot mess. Being a step-mom is great, and I’m pretty damn good at it. But actually, starting from scratch without skipping the baby bump, weight gain, constant cravings, parturition, changing diapers, sleepless nights, breast feeding…am I really up for the task of parenthood?

And just like that, I was back to chewing on the inside of my cheek in nervousness. “Ooh! What secret is this, huh? I am dying of curiosity already!” Brianna squeaked and popped her head beside me. “Tell us Maya! What is the secret?” she urged in the way that only children could.

I gulped, and passed her a brief glance. “I-I think it’s best if we wait until we get home. Preferably when your dad is back from work as well.”

“Did you get promoted at work?” Aiden asked. I shook my head. That would have been great news too, but I’d already gotten a promotion three months ago to being a marketing director. I’m not sure if there are any promotions left to give me, not that I’m complaining about being this #blessed.

“Then what is it?” they bellowed impatiently simultaneously.

“I’m making dinner tonight!” I splurged unceremoniously, not even sure how I’d formulated a lie in under a second. I shuffled in my seat uncomfortably. “Y-yeah, that’s right. I’m making your favourite dinner tonight!” I said half-heartedly, even pumping my fist in the air. Great, that means that now I will actually have to cook instead of worrying about how to reveal the real secret when I get back home. Nice going Maya.

***

I’d just taken the beef casserole out of the over and put it on the kitchen island when a pair of muscular arms circled around my waist, and a pair of lips made contact with my exposed shoulder. “It smells so good in here. I heard you made dinner, what’s the occasion?” Theodore pronounced huskily into my ear, making my stomach flutter with both happiness and apprehension.

I leaned into his touch. “Just felt like it. Can’t a woman cook, especially for her family?” I joked, and he chuckled, the vibrations rippling through his chest that was pressed up against my back. His touch always was successful in turning me to mush, and my mind was already beginning to race wildly. What is the matter with you, Maya?

He turned me around so that I was facing his handsome face, which had only gotten more handsome since this morning. I’m aware that that sounds pretty insane, but it’s true. He just seems to age like fine wine.

Pulling me closer by the waist, he looked deeply into my eyes like he always did, but this time around I couldn’t quite keep his gaze. “You picked up the twins today. Weren’t you supposed to be at work?” he inquired; one brow raised.

I shifted from one foot to the other. “I..uh, got a bit sick so I left early,” I told him in a small voice. I really had no reason to lie at this point; the last time had gotten me into cooking for the last hour and a half. I was so exhausted and needed to sit down.

Theodore frowned, and clasped my chin between his fingers. “Really? Are you feeling better now? Why didn’t you call me?” he fired rapidly, voice laced with concern and a tinge of anger.

I smiled at this; it means that he cared. Once in a while, I like being reminded that the love of my life cares about me so much. Love is such a beautiful thing, isn’t it? “Yeah, I’m super. But…there is something I do need to tell you,” I said and then walked out of his grasp, going over to the cabinet to get some plates.

He sighed, and loosened his neck tie. “And before you ask me what it is, I’d suggest you go and freshen up. You don’t smell to great right now,” I teased and wriggled my nose mockingly at him.

“You wound me, love,” he replied, holding his chest in feigned hurt. “I’ll be down in twenty minutes.” With that, he winked at me and walked out of the kitchen. Not too long after, Matt entered, dressed casually for a change. I’d given him the rest of the day off, but being the big nag he was, he just couldn’t stay away from the kitchen for too long. I think he still doesn’t trust me alone in here, especially after that incident when I accidentally burned a dish cloth while making beef stew. Yikes.

He breathed in the aroma of the food I’d just made and nodded in approval. “It does smell delightful in here. Need a hand, madam?” he spoke gently, offering me his cheeky grin that made his cheeks look like they were full of acorns.

I shrugged. “I could use some help setting the table and carrying the dishes there, if that’s not too much to ask,” I said, going over to the stove to turn down the heat of the white sauce I’d left to simmer.

With the help of my loyal chef, we added the finishing touches of grand feast. I don’t know what prompted me to make so much but these were some recipes I’d been thinking of trying since I’d seen them on Pinterest. Ann had been helping the children to get ready, and she also called Ms. Duke to come down for dinner once I was done. Theodore joined us not too long after we’d all been seated. I’d also extended the invitation to Ann and Matt; it was only fair that they be around for this moment.

After a little bit of chatting, laughing and dining, Theodore decided to speak up, leaning over to me as I was seated at his right hand. “So, what is it that you wanted to tell me?”

I cleared my throat and looked around the table. “Guys, there is something I’d like to say. It’s something that I found out not too long ago and I think you all ought to know. I-,”

Ms. Duke threw her cutlery in her plate. “Good Lord, child. Fine! I have been seeing Mr. Travail from next door; there, I said it!” she suddenly exclaimed in a loud voice. Everybody stilled and stared at her in pure shock and confusion, me most of all.

“What?” we all voiced, and she diverted her gaze to the wall, which seemed to have somehow captured her attention.

“How long has this been going on, mother?” Theodore asked her, face scrunched up in what I assumed to be hurt. Now, I wasn’t exactly sure if he was hurt because he hadn’t known before hand or because his mother had apparently gotten a love interest in her life now.

Ms. Duke hung her head in shame. “A little over a year?” she mumbled, and we all gasped.

“A year? A whole damn year and you didn’t think to tell me this? Unbelievable!” he bellowed and threw his hands up for emphasis. “Is that why you’d been spending so much time out and about?” he accused, and I gave him a sharp look.

I shook my head in disapproval. “Theodore, take it easy. There’s no need to be disrespectful; she’s still your mother,” I reprimanded him, making him press his lips together. I turned to my dear mother-in-law and smirked at her. “Wow, Clarisse. I’d have never thought you had it in you to sneak around with Mr. Travail from next door. But I don’t blame you; he’s pretty handsome for his age,” I said and she laughed at my comment.

From the corner of my eye, I could see Aiden and Brianna snickering at what I had said. “Thanks, dear. At least you understand and aren’t so quick to judge,” she said coolly, and rolled her eyes at her son. “Remember that time I said my book club and I had gone to the Maldives. Well, I’d actually gone with Mr. Travail! He was so romantic, and even took me on a boat ride,” she gushed with a lovestruck look on her face. I’m glad Ms. Duke had found someone she truly liked after being alone for so long. Everybody want to be loved, after all.

Theodore huffed and began to stab his ganache with his fork. “I’m not judging you, mum. I just think that you could have at least told me about this, you know. I’m not adverse to the idea of you moving on but I thought that you trusted me enough to have told me earlier; I’d have investigated whether he’s good enough for my mother or not,” he told her softly, and I ‘aw’d at how sweet that had just sounded.

Ms. Duke rubbed his shoulder, as she was seated at his left-hand side. “Don’t worry, my darling. He’s a good man, maybe not as great as your dad but I do love him. I’m sorry for not telling you. I was afraid that you might not take it well," she apologized sincerely.

It seemed that this night was just full of surprises. I’m relieved that their conversation had gone very differently, no shouting or spanking. I’d witnessed too much of that rubbish, to be frank. “As much as I’m happy for you Clarisse, that’s not what I was going to say. I was actually going to say that I felt sick at work today; had a bit of a dizzy spell. After going to the hospital, I found out that…I’m pregnant,” I finally managed to say, looking around the table once more for reactions.

Pin drop silence prevailed; it was so quiet that I could here the howling of our neighbour’s dogs a few houses down. Shit, maybe this wasn’t the right time to tell everybody this. “We’re going to have a sibling!” the twins shrieked joyously before jumping from their seats and sprinting over to me. They both engulfed me in a hug so tight that I thought I would explode. I hugged them both, relieved that they were thrilled and not angry at me for perhaps trying to replace them.

Next, I received some congratulatory remarks from Ms. Duke, Ann and Matt who were all pretty much overjoyed that there would a new edition to the family. They just couldn’t stop talking, but I was too bothered by it. What was bothering me was the fact that Theodore still hadn’t spoken, neither had he reacted at all. He looked like he did want to say something, but was teetering between letting it out and keeping it contained. Why the hell hadn’t he said anything? Was he mad at me?

“Maya, can I talk to you in our bedroom?” he asked, standing up. He extended his hand to me, which I took and let him lead me upstairs to our room. I stepped in after him, shutting the door and exhaled heavily.

“Listen, Theodore. I know that you’re upset-,” but I didn’t get to finish my sentence when all of a sudden his lips collided with mine, astonishing the heck out of me. I was stunned for a few seconds before responding, wrapping my arms around his neck.

Just when I thought I’d run out of air, he let me go and I inhaled deeply. “Baby, you have no idea how much I love you, even more so right now,” he breathed and pulled me closer to him, flush against his chest. I laid my head on it, and I could hear his heart beat; loud and proud.

I stroked the hair at the nape of his neck. “I was scared there, for a second. I thought you were angry with me,” I whispered, tears of joy pooling in my eyes.

Letting me go, he cupped my face and directed my face upwards so I was looking in his cobalt eyes, which were glowing with affection. “And why would I be mad? Maya, I just couldn’t believe what you said for a sometime, but once the reality sank in, I needed to get you alone so I can properly explain just how happy I am to be having a child with you. I know I say this a lot, but I love you so damn much, and even though we hadn’t discussed having children, it has been my desire to have a baby with you for a long time now,” he told me lovingly, wiping away the tears from my cheeks with his thumbs.

It only made me cry harder. “Y-you mean that?” I sniffed. Don’t ask me my I was crying, I heard that pregnancy hormones can do that. He nodded, and kissed me once more.

“If you don’t believe me, I can show you right now…on the bed,” he suggested with a sly grin. I rolled my eyes, but deep down I couldn’t deny that was indeed an excellent idea.

“You do realise that everybody is downstairs right now and could hear us, right?” I declared, a huge contrast from my tears just now, whilst smoothing my hands over his large biceps.

His grin morphed into a smirk. “Need I remind you that these walls are sound proof?”

I shook my head. “Mr. Duke, you’re quite shameless,” I teased with a smirk of my own.

“Only for you, Mrs. Duke.”

____________________________

Wassup pips! Did ya miss me? I know I missed you all! I know everybody wasn't ready to let Maya and Theo go so....I wrote this long ass bonus chapter!

I'd have written the wedding but I'm not sure I'm good at writing wedding scenes...so I went with a pregnancy announcement instead!

Did you enjoy this lil something I whipped up over the past two days?

What was your favourite moment?

Would you like another bonus chapter in the near future?

And..........I thought I'd let you guys know that Imma drop a new book some time soon. Get excited please 🔥🔥🔥❤️

Don't be sad, I'm not gone. Still here and will be here for a long time.

Remember to vote, comment and share! Excuse any typos, s'il vous plait 🥺

Love y'all,

~Deetronite ❤️♥️