Free Accidentally Perfect by Torrie Robles

I take long deep breaths while I rub my hand up and down Laney’s thigh, probably more for my benefit than hers.
    “You act like they have never stayed with me before, Laney.  They have been staying with me for the past two years.”
    “I understand that Brad, but your place is tiny, and I don’t see how Addie will be able to get around, it’s doesn’t matter that it’s one level.  She’ll be running into things left and right.  Besides who do you think will be staying with her while you’re at work?”  Laney just proved my point that I brought up to Brad earlier. 
    “My penthouse is one level.  There're six bedrooms and multiple other rooms.  It’s on Columbus with views of Central Park and the Hudson.  I don’t see any reason why you and the girls can’t just move in with me.”  Brad throws daggers my way.
    “No thanks, Nathan.”  Brad is quick to decline my offer.  “If the girls can’t be in my apartment then I want them in my house, not a place they don’t know.”
    “It’s my house Brad, mine.  It was never yours.  Let’s make sure we remember that shall we?”
    “I’m just saying there isn’t any reason why my house isn’t an option.  Bear, we’re married, did you think we wouldn’t live together?” I hear Brad chuckle under his breath.
    “I think it’s a fabulous idea, Laney.  The girls would love something new.  It doesn’t have to be forever, but right now a large, single level place is the best for them.”  Stella gives me a little wink.
    “I don’t like it, Laney; I want the girls in familiar surroundings.  I would think you would want that too.”
    “I do Brad, but I think it’s a good option.  Like Stella said, it doesn’t have to be forever. But when Addie is released, it’s the best option.”  I love the feel of victory.
    “Excuse me.”  A nurse comes in breaking up the conversation.  “Visiting hours have been over for a while .  You can come back in the morning, first thing.”
    “No, I’m not leaving my girls.  I don’t want them to wake up without their mother.”
    “I don’t feel comfortable about leaving the girls either,” Brad says.
    “I’m sorry, it’s hospital policy.  These aren’t family rooms; I’m really sorry.  If there is a problem, we can always call you.  Just go home and get some rest.  Come back fresh in the morning.”
    “I’m sorry nurse, but hospital policy or not, these girls are not going to spend the night here without one of their parents.  My family gives enough money to this place to allow my wife to stay with her girls.  I won’t have it any other way.”  I don’t want the girls to wake up without a familiar face, and I know that Laney will do nothing but worry about them.  She already feels bad enough that she wasn’t there when the accident happened.  I’m going to do anything to give her some kind of relief.  “You can let your supervisor know that Amanda and Addie Richards are the stepdaughters of Nathaniel Joseph Whitmore, and I insist at least one of their parents are allowed to stay with them throughout the night.” The nurse nods her head in agreement and leaves the room.
    “Thank you, Nathan.”
    “Yeah, thanks, Nate.  Street, why don’t you go home and get the girls some clothes and the stuffed horses they sleep with.  Once you get back then, I’ll head home.  I need a few hours of sleep before I have to line up a sub with my lesson plans.  I’ll come back in the morning and wait with you until Amanda is released.  I’ll stay with Addie while you get Bear settled in at home.  I think it’s best for you and Amanda to stay at the house until Addie get’s out.  It’s closer to the hospital, anyway.”
    “Okay Brad, we will.  But once Bug’s out we will be with Nathan.” 
    Brad’s idea to give it a couple of days isn’t a bad one.  It will give me plenty of time to get the penthouse ready for the girls.  I know just the person who will make it, so those