Nicola Taylor As I woke up to the gentle morning light filtering through the curtains, I found myself in a room that still felt somewhat unfamiliar, yet comforting. Cole lay beside me, his features softened by sleep, and I couldn't help but smile at the sight of him. I never thought I’d wake up next to a man even half as gorgeous as Cole Harrington. Today was going to be special—a girls' day with Arabella, something I had promised her before the wedding. The thought filled me with excitement and a touch of nervousness. I wanted to make it perfect for her, to bond and create memories that she would cherish. I heard small girly giggles, which made me laugh as I got up from the bed. Opening the door, I found Arabella ready to jump out and scare me. I pretended to be startled, letting out an exaggerated gasp as she giggled. “You said you would make pancakes for me,” she reminded me, lifting her arms for me to pick her up. I greeted Mrs. Kinsley in the kitchen and began preparing the pa

Nicola Taylor“You are mad at me. I can tell,” Cole said for the umpteenth time as I fluffed my pillow aggressively before getting into bed. Harvey and Cole might not be ‘besties’ again, but they were on better terms now because I intervened. They even hugged each other goodbye. After putting Bella to bed, Cole had followed me around like a puppy, asking if I was mad, but I didn’t answer. I wanted to say something but didn’t feel like it.So, I guess I was mad at him.“Nicola.” I felt the bed dip as he joined me, his presence warm and insistent. I faced away, cuddling my pillow further. His familiar scent enveloped me as his muscular arm wrapped around my waist, pulling me closer.I made a few protesting sounds but still refused to speak. I tried to wriggle free, but his grip was unyielding. Damn it.“Nicola, if you look at the situation, you’ll see the irony. You’re right; not only was I an egotistical asshole, but I was also the real loser.” His self-deprecating tone made me smile