When he hadn’t had any control, he’d lost his boy. Jude couldn’t have that happen ever again. At least he needed to believe that. That he had any semblance of control.
“Dinner at my house then,” Jude said. “I’ll cook. Is there anything in particular that you want?”
“Everything you make is so good!” Liam said.
“I have a few ideas,” Jude said. More than a few. It was more about narrowing it down.
“Did you take the aspirin I left for you?” Jude questioned.
“Yes.”
“And drank the water?”
“I had water and juice this morning,” Liam replied.
“Good boy.”
Liam shivered.
“Cold?” Jude asked.
“No.”
Jude ran his hand down Liam’s back, making sure to avoid his shoulders. “Does this mean you might be ready to spend some time in your playroom?”
Liam closed his eyes for a brief moment.
“Liam?”
“I want that.” Liam peered up at him. “I would love to spend time in my playroom.”
“With me?” Jude clarified. “Taking care of you?”
Liam teared up. “As my Daddy?”
Jude cupped his face. “Yes, baby boy, as your Daddy.”
“Please,” Liam said. “Please, Daddy.”
“Good boy.” Jude kissed the tip of Liam’s sunburned nose. His small bag was still over his shoulder. He drew Liam to his feet before guiding him across the room and down the hall. The playroom, from what Jude had gathered from overhearing Liam and Nicky, was the second door on the right.
The first door was obviously an office. A messy office. Jude ignored that for now.
He continued along until they reached the second door. “This the playroom?”
Liam nodded.
“Is it okay if I open the door?”
“Yes.”
Jude turned the knob and pushed open the door. The light switch was to the right, and he flicked it on.
He smiled at the room in front of him.
The carpet was thick and new. Jude’s house had ceramic tile throughout. A playroom needed carpet just like this. He was also surprised by the thick sturdy furniture. A twin bed with a wood frame, a changing table, bookcase, and a rocking chair in the corner.
Above the changing table were shelves that held an array of diapers, wipes, powder, and lotions.
