The Royal Contract

He was thankful that his wife had become more and more like herself with time. And it seemed the new baby, growing inside her, helped in her healing process.

He also felt a change in him when he learned that he would have a chance to be a father again. The pain in his heart after losing his first child did not go away, but he believed it had lessened.

"What about dinner tonight?" Marcus asked while his wife sat in his lap. "I can reserve a table at your favorite restaurant." Picking up her hand and peppering her fingers with gentle kisses.

"That sounds romantic," Jacky answered while her other hand created a circular pattern around her belly.

"I can also hire a quartet to play your favorite song." He teased her, knowing that she never liked classical kinds of music.

"I will love that." She ironically agreed with him. Then, she picked up her phone and started doodling on the screen. After a few seconds, she played something on the speaker.

He was not expecting that. A soothing symphony floated in the air until it reached his ears. He appreciated good music, but he knew Jacky only tolerated it because of him.

"Hmmm?" He could not help but look at his wife in question. Or maybe she was pranking him. That was a more acceptable explanation.

"I read that playing the Classics helps in the baby's development. So, I thought of giving it a try." She let the song continue playing while her fingers moved in a calming pattern on top of her growing tummy.

Suddenly, he was overwhelmed with love for his wife. How did he get so lucky to have her after what he had done in his youth? It still amazed him how fate had bestowed him with such a gift.

"Why am I suddenly envious of our baby?" He playfully stated as he leaned forward and let his fingers glide across her belly, covering her hands.

"But I am sure that you will be a terrific mother. I can't wait for our child to get to know you." He genuinely meant that.

He was ok with it since it gave him time to visit his wife when he was around. And he would do anything to help his friends, Alex and Dani.

"Is he inside?" Marcus asked the beautiful woman that greeted him with a friendly smile.

"He is. And he has been expecting to see you five minutes ago." Her eyes told him he was late, but that did not frighten him.

"Hey, Alona. Can you help me out? I am thinking of taking Jacky to dinner tonight." He whispered conspiratorially into her ears.

"Say no more. I will handle all the arrangements." Alona answered him.

"Great!" Marcus gratefully answered Alex's assistant. "You are a lifesaver." He knew he could always count on her.

"Go on inside before I change my mind." She threatened him. "I am only doing this because I want to see Jacky happy." She, Dani, and Jacky had been good friends.

"I know. And you know I only want to make Jacky happy." He winked at her, knowing that tonight would be in good hands. Jacky would surely love it.

"Hey, man. I heard you were looking for me." He casually walked into the room and sat on the available chair.

But he was not expecting company as his eyes landed on two men sitting on the couch. Of course, he recognized them but was unaware of a meeting.

Suddenly, he wondered if this had something to do with his sister that he had been looking for. His curiosity flew to the roof as he waited for Alex to open the topic.

"Gentleman," Marcus greeted everyone.