The Billionaire’s Baby Mama

Chapter 9

May

The clock on the wall of my small, cozy apartment reads 3:30 PM, and I know it's time to prepare for the most exciting part of my day—Amanda and Alistair's arrival from school. I quickly finish up the last few chores, ensuring that everything is tidy and welcoming for their return. Well, as tidy as our home can be.

As I put the finishing touches on the kids' bedroom, I can't help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment. This apartment may not be spacious, but it's filled with love, laughter, and the beautiful chaos that comes with raising four-year-old twins. I have definitely come a long way from that sad and scared girl at that bus station.

The twins, Amanda and Alistair, are the center of my world. They are my reason for getting up every morning and my source of endless joy. They're identical in looks, with the same ebony hair as their father and the same height, Amanda’s eyes is blue like her father while Alistair’s is green like mine. But their personalities couldn't be more different. Amanda is the outgoing, chatty one, always eager to share her latest adventures at school or the stories she's created in her vivid imagination. Alistair, on the other hand, is the quiet observer, thoughtful and calm. He chooses his words carefully but speaks volumes through his actions.

I check the clock once more, and it's time to head downstairs to wait for the school bus. The kids' school is within walking distance, so I made it a tradition to meet them at the bus stop every day. As I take the elevator down our apartment building, I can't help but feel grateful for our little routine. It's these simple moments that make life meaningful.

The sun is casting a warm, golden glow over the neighborhood, and I can hear the distant sounds of children playing. The bus stop is just around the corner, and I find myself getting excited, just like I do every day. The anticipation of seeing their smiles, hearing about their adventures, and receiving their hugs and kisses never gets old.

As I round the corner, I spot the familiar yellow school bus approaching. My heart flutters with excitement, and I can't help but smile. The bus comes to a stop, and the door swings open. A few other kids jump out until there they are—my precious twins, Amanda and Alistair, stepping off the bus hand in hand with Alistair being the overprotective brother and carrying Amanda’s bag pack along with his.

The backpacks are nearly as big as he is but he manages. And their little feet scurry down the steps. Amanda's eyes light up as soon as she sees me, and her face breaks into a wide grin. "Mommy!"

I bend down, opening my arms wide, and Amanda rushes into my embrace. Her hug is filled with warmth and enthusiasm, like she's been waiting all day for this moment. "Hi, sweetie," I say, pressing a kiss to her soft cheek. "How was school today?"

Alistair, standing by Amanda's side, gives me a small, shy smile. He's always a bit reserved when it comes to public displays of affection. I crouch down to his level and offer a gentle pat on his back as I collect the bags from him. "Hey there, buddy. How was your day?"

"Good," he replies softly, his hazel eyes meeting mine briefly before he looks away.

I'm careful not to push him for more words. Alistair has his own way of communicating, and I've learned to respect his quiet nature. Amanda, however, is more than happy to share.

"Mommy, you won't believe what happened today!" she exclaims, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "We had a special visitor in class—a firefighter! He showed us his uniform, and he even let us sit in the fire truck! It was so cool!"

I listen to Amanda's animated retelling of her day, her words flowing like a river. She's a natural storyteller, and her enthusiasm is sometimes overwhelming . Alistair remains by her side, listening attentively but not saying much.

Once Amanda's story reaches its conclusion, I turn my attention to Alistair. "And what about you, Alistair? Did you have a good day too?"

He nods, his ebony hair falling into his eyes. "Yes, Mommy. We painted pictures today."

"That sounds wonderful," I reply, trying to hide my excitement. It's rare for Alistair to voluntarily share details of his day, and I don't want to overwhelm him with questions. Instead, I take both of their hands in mine and guide them back toward our apartment building.

As we walk, Amanda continues to chatter away, telling me about her plans to become a firefighter when she grows up. That’s the fifth change of occupation she’s made in two weeks, I’m sure there’ll be at least two more. Her dreams are as big as her heart, and I'm in awe of her boundless imagination. Alistair, always a step behind his sister, listens and occasionally adds a word or two to the conversation.

Once we're back home, I hang their backpacks and guide them to the kitchen sink where we wash our hands. I guide them back to the little dinning table. It's snack time, and I've prepared their favorite—apple slices with peanut butter. They chatter and giggle as they munch on their snacks, filling the small kitchen with warmth and laughter.

After their snack, we move to the living room, and I encourage them to play with their toys. Amanda dives into her dolls, creating elaborate stories and adventures, while Alistair gravitates toward his collection of building blocks. Their playtime is a beautiful mix of creativity and imagination.

While they play, I take a moment to reflect on how far we've come. Becoming a mother at such a young age was daunting, but Amanda and Alistair have brought immeasurable joy into my life. Every day with them is a gift, and I cherish each moment we spend together.

As the afternoon sun begins to dip below the horizon, I start preparing dinner. The kids help in their own little ways, setting the table and washing their hands. It's a simple meal—spaghetti with tomato sauce and a side of steamed broccoli, one of their favorite dishes.

As we sit down to eat, I can't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. Our family may be small, and our apartment may be modest, but it's filled with love, laughter, and the beautiful chaos that comes with raising twins. Amanda and Alistair are my world, and every day with them is a reminder of the beauty and wonder of motherhood. And I question if I made the right decision by visiting Ben earlier today, I begin to doubt if I shouldn’t have told him.

After dinner, we move to the living room, where I put on their favorite tv show.

I stare at the clock every five minutes as I patiently wait for the doorbell to signify the time for the paternity test sample.