Chapter 120
Katrina smiled as she watched her daughter, Clarence, perched happily on Kylan's broad shoulders. Clarence's little hands tugged gently at his hair as she chattered away about the beach, the waves, and the toys she was excited to play with. Kylan was all smiles, responding warmly, his voice carrying a playful tone that made Katrina's heart swell. She carried the beach supplies despite Kylan's protests, insisting he focused on keeping Clarence entertained.
After spreading out the blanket, setting up the umbrella, and tucking the food and drinks safely under the shade, Katrina let out a contented sigh and took a seat. Kylan lifted Clarence from his shoulders and set her gently on the blanket. Then, with a cheeky grin, he leaned
over and kissed Katrina on the cheek.
Katrina returned the kiss, her smile glowing as she reached for the sunscreen. "Alright, baby girl," she called to Clarence, "come to Mommy so I can put some more cream on you."
Clarence crawled over, her little voice sweet and obedient. "Yes, Mommy."
Katrina chuckled at the sight of her daughter in her tiny beach hat and swimsuit. She gently rubbed sunscreen onto Clarence's arms and legs, finishing with a quick kiss on her cheek. "All ready, sweetie. Do you want to play in the sand?"
"Yes, pwease!" Clarence exclaimed with an eager nod.
Katrina handed her a small bucket and spade. "Just sit at the edge of the blanket, okay, baby?"
"Yes, Mommy."
Kylan watched them with a warm smile before taking the other bucket. "I'll get her some seawater," he offered.
"Thank you," Katrina said, leaning in for another quick kiss.
Kylan stood and held out his hand to Clarence. "Come on, kiddo. Let's go grab some water for your sandcastle!" "Yes, Daddy!" Clarence chirped, taking his hand.
As Katrina watched them walk toward the water, laughing and talking, her heart felt impossibly full. She hugged her knees to her chest, savoring the sight of her husband and daughter together. The scene was perfect, a picture of happiness-but she wasn't the only one watching.
Isabella observed from a distance, her heart twisting painfully in jealousy. She clenched her fists at the sight of Kylan being such a wonderful father and husband. It wasn't fair. It should've been her by his side, basking in his love, sharing these moments with him. Her thoughts darkened.
Back at the blanket, Katrina lay back, slipping out of her sundress to tan in her swimsuit. She rubbed more sunscreen onto her arms and legs, her movements casual, though she had an ulterior motive. She was hoping Kylan might notice her, get a little flustered, and set the tone for a romantic evening after Clarence went to bed.
Kylan returned moments later with Clarence in tow, both of them beaming. Kylan paused mid-step as he caught sight of Katrina lounging on the blanket. "Oh wow, Clarence," he said, his voice teasing. "Look how beautiful Mommy is!"
Clarence clapped her hands. "Mommy's pwiddy!"
Katrina laughed, spreading her arms out. "Come here, sweetie."
Clarence giggled and ran to her, wrapping her tiny arms around her. Kylan sat beside them, pulling his shirt off, much to Isabella's silent delight. His toned chest and snug swim shorts left her unable to look away, and she could feel her pulse quicken. "I want to cuddle too," Kylan said, smirking as he reached for Katrina.
Katrina smiled, holding Clarence close. "Your daughter has dibs right now, don't you, Clarence?"
"Yes!" Clarence crowed, climbing onto Katrina's lap.
Kylan shifted the umbrella to shade them all and lay down beside them. As Katrina watched him relax and bond with their daughter, she felt a pang of broodiness-a longing for another little one to add to their family.
Later, after Clarence fell asleep cuddled between them, Katrina turned to Kylan, her voice low. "I've been thinking," she murmured.
Kylan propped himself up on an elbow, his expression curious. "What about?"
Katrina nibbled her bottom lip, feeling shy but determined. "Watching you with Clarence today made me a little broody. I was wondering if...maybe we could try for another baby. Just once, see how it goes?" Kylan's eyes widened in surprise before softening with joy. "Really?"
She nodded, cheeks flushed. "Yeah. But just once...though, let's be honest, we don't usually stop at once."
Kylan leaned closer to Katrina and kissed her softly. "I'd love to start tonight."
Katrina blushed, her cheeks warm. "Same."
Unbeknownst to them, Isabella had overheard part of their conversation. Her chest tightened, jealousy clawing at her insides. They were planning to expand their family, growing even closer, leaving her further in the shadows. Meanwhile, Kylan and Katrina's daughter, Clarence, sat up and rubbed her sleepy eyes. "Mommy?"
Katrina hummed gently. "What's up, honey?"
"Water."
Katrina grabbed a bottle of water and opened it for her. "Here you go."
Clarence took a big gulp, wiped her mouth with her small hand, and sighed. "Swim, pwease?"
Katrina smiled and retrieved her daughter's float ring, holding out her hand. "Alright, let's go swim. Kylan, are you coming?"
Kylan stood and stretched. "Of course."
Walking hand-in-hand with Clarence, Katrina slipped the float ring around her daughter and carried her toward the water. She gasped as her toes touched the cool waves. "Oh, so cold, isn't it?" Clarence giggled, kicking her legs. "Cold, Mommy!"
Katrina carefully lowered her into the water, holding the ring steady. "Yep, very cold, but it feels nice."
Clarence nodded enthusiastically. "Yes!"
"Hold onto the ring tightly, sweetheart, and I'll move you around, okay?"
Clarence grinned and clung to the ring. "Thank you, Mommy."
Katrina kissed her daughter's cheek several times, making Clarence squeal in delight. "Love you so much." "Love Mommy!"
Kylan swam over, disappearing under the water briefly before popping up in front of Clarence. "Boo!"
Clarence burst into laughter, patting the float ring excitedly. "Daddy!"
Kylan leaned in to kiss her cheek. "Hey, princess. Are you having fun in the water?"
Clarence nodded, her curls bouncing. "Yes!"
"Good." Kylan turned his attention to Katrina, a playful smile on his lips. "And you?"
Katrina smiled warmly. "I'm having a wonderful time."
He leaned over and kissed her, causing Clarence to giggle again. "Perfect."
Katrina gently spun the float ring, making Clarence laugh. "How about we go on an adventure, sweetheart? With Mommy and Daddy?" Clarence clapped her hands. "Yes, pwease!"
Katrina held the float securely as she swam backward. "Alright, off we go!" She pushed Clarence over to Kylan, who caught her effortlessly.
"Wee!" Clarence squealed in joy.
Kylan kissed her cheek again. "Ready to go again?"
"Yaaay!"
With a playful grin, Kylan tossed Clarence lightly over to Katrina. "Here she comes!"
Katrina caught her and spun her gently in the water, both of them laughing. The family continued to play, splashing and laughing together, until Katrina noticed Clarence starting to yawn. "Are you getting sleepy, sweetheart?" Katrina asked softly.
Clarence nodded, rubbing her eyes. "Yes, Mommy."
Katrina smiled and pulled her along. "Kylan, can you grab her ring for me?"
"Got it," Kylan replied, removing the float and setting it aside.
Katrina lifted Clarence out of the water, holding her securely on her hip. "Let's get you dried and changed, okay?"
Kylan grabbed their beach bag and stepped closer. "I'll handle it."
"You sure?" Katrina asked, raising an eyebrow.
He nodded, taking Clarence from her arms. "Absolutely. You're always taking care of her at home. This trip is not just for her birthday but for you to have a break too."
Katrina blushed, touched by his thoughtfulness. "Alright. Just don't take too long."
Kylan kissed her cheek. "Don't worry, we'll be back soon. Now, you relax and get some rest in the shade."
Katrina smiled as he walked off with their daughter. She spread a towel on the sand, lay down on her stomach, and let the soothing sound of the waves lull her into a peaceful nap.
As Katrina rested peacefully, Isabella
observed her from a distance, her
mind scheming. She contemplated ways to disrupt the harmony between Katrina and Kylan. Ultimately, she decided her best course of action would be to sabotage Kylan's mood, especially since she had overheard that the
couple planned to try for another
child that evening.
She turned to Dexter, a flirtatious friend who was lounging nearby. "See that woman over there, under the umbrella?"
He followed her gaze and whistled. "She's gorgeous."
"She's married to the man I'm meant to be with. Do me a favor and flirt with her. Make it convincing."
Dexter grinned. "I can do that."
As he approached Katrina, Isabella's mind churned with ideas. This was just the beginning. She would find a way to disrupt their perfect little world. She had to. Kylan belonged to her. Dexter walked over to Katrina. "Excuse me, miss?"
Katrina lifted her head and leaned
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up, unintentionally giving Dexter a clear view of her neckline. It also gave her a chance to take in the man standing in front of her. He had dark, styled hair, a tall, lean,
model-like physique, an ad
pale skin. He was undeniably striking. "Yes?"
"Do you know when the beach closes? I didn't see any signs."
Katrina smiled warmly. "That's alright. I think it closes for sunbathing and swimming around six."
He nodded. "Thanks. Nice beach, though, isn't it?"
She hummed, glancing around. "It's perfect."
Dexter let out a sigh, his gaze lingering. "I, uh, have another question."
Katrina kicked her feet lightly. "Sure."
""Did it hurt?"
She sighed, recognizing the cheesy pick-up line immediately. He crouched slightly, grinning. "You know, when you fell from heaven?"
She shook her head with an amused smirk. "No, but I did scrape my knee crawling out of hell."
He laughed. "That's a good one."
"Better than your line," she teased with a playful smile.
He nodded, still smirking. "I'm terrible. I don't think there's a single good pick-up line out there."
"You're right about that. I've heard so many; they're all the same. Compliments work better, really."
"Well then, you are very beautiful. I've seen a lot of people on this beach today, but you stood out to me."
Katrina hummed softly. "I'd be flattered if it weren't for the lack of clothing."
Dexter ruffled his hair sheepishly. "Yeah, sorry about that. But to me, it's your face that stands out. You've got such a cute smile."
She blushed faintly. "Thank you."
"Are you free tonight? I'd love to take you out."
Katrina held up her left hand, showing her wedding ring. "Sorry, love, I'm happily married with a daughter."
Dexter's eyes widened slightly. "You're a mum? Damn, that's impressive."
Katrina burst into laughter. "Oh, bless you, but I don't think so."
He reached out and lightly played with a strand of her damp hair. "You're divine."
"Excuse me?"
Dexter looked up as Kylan approached, carrying their daughter in his arms. "Can I help you?"
Dexter smiled nonchalantly. "Just chatting with this lovely lady."
Katrina sat up, drawing their daughter into her arms and unintentionally offering both men a glimpse of her neckline. She kissed the child's cheek before glancing at Kylan, whose sharp gaze was fixed on Dexter.
"If you have any further questions, you can ask me instead of my wife," Kylan said firmly.
Dexter stood, gave Katrina a wink, and smirked. "No need. I'm good for now. See you later, angel."
Kylan watched him walk away, hisPlease check at N/ôvel(D)rama.Org.
jaw tightening, He then turned to
Katrina, who was gently rocking their now-sleeping daughter. Despite his irritation, the sight of Katrina with their little one softened his
expression. He sat beside her, though his tone was curt. You're too
friendly sometimes."
Katrina frowned, stroking her daughter's hair. "He just wanted to know when the beach closes."
"Did you answer him?"
"Yes."
"Then why keep talking to him?"
She glanced up at Kylan, his tone stinging. "What's your problem?"
He sighed deeply, raking a hand through his hair. "He was flirting with you, and you let him."
Her eyes welled slightly at his harshness, and her voice softened. "Sorry, Kylan..."
Seeing her sadness, Kylan's irritation ebbed, replaced by guilt. "No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have snapped. I just worry about you. You're so sweet, kind, and maybe a little too trusting. Someone could take advantage of that."
Katrina gave him a small, sad smile. "Yeah, I guess I am a bit naive."
"No!" Kylan groaned, frustrated with himself. "You're not. I just... I didn't handle this well. I'm sorry I was mean. I'm just a protective, jealous man."
She smiled gently. "I'm sorry too."
"You don't have to be..." He exhaled. "So, he said 'see you later.""
"It's just a saying. I have no intention of seeing him again because I'm here with you and our daughter. You know I love you both more than anything in this world."
Kylan softened, but she added with a teasing smile, "Guess this means our night of fun isn't happening now?"
He frowned. "Where'd you get that idea?"
She shrugged. "I thought you were upset, so maybe you wouldn't want to."
He leaned in and kissed her deeply, growling playfully. "Actually, I'm a little jealous that man got your smiles and laughs. Tonight, I'm going to remind you-and mark you-so everyone knows you're mine. A wedding ring isn't enough." Katrina giggled, her cheeks warm. "I look forward to it."
He kissed her again, his voice tender. "I hope you know I love you with everything in me. I'm sorry, and I love you so, so much."
"Love you too."