Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem novel Chapter 1756

Before Winona could get a word in, Keaton launched into his pitch.

"I know I might be a mess when it comes to romance, but I love kids. You’ve seen how I am with Elliot and Evan. I would treat your baby like my own flesh and blood. I never planned on getting married or having kids of my own, so if you agree, this baby will be my sole heir."

He rushed on, his voice earnest. "I don't have any experience being a father, but I swear I’d give it everything I have. I’d give the kid a happy, secure childhood and make sure they're protected for the rest of their life. Every cent to my name will go to them."

Winona was completely stunned.

She stared at him in disbelief, trying to process his sudden, chaotic proposal. She had no idea what had brought this on.

He obviously didn't realize the baby was already his. Was he seriously offering to play the doting father to another man's child?

Her lips parted, but words failed her.

Fearing a rejection, Keaton quickly laid out the pros and cons. "I know my reputation isn't the best. Having a guy like me as a father might not be a badge of honor, and people might whisper behind our backs. Getting tangled up in my mess wouldn't exactly polish your image, either. But think about it—you can give the kid a life of luxury, but can you give them a father's love?"

He leaned closer. "A kid can be perfectly happy without a dad, but having one is always better, right? And what if you get tied up with work? If you have to travel out of town on business, I'd be right here at home to keep them company. Having one more person to love them can only be a good thing. Plus, it solves your biggest problem. You wouldn't have to figure out how to explain the father situation to the public, and when the kid grows up, they won't be asking difficult questions about where their dad went."

Most importantly, if he claimed the baby, nobody would dare gossip about Winona's private life or call her child illegitimate. Winona wasn't aware of the vicious rumors already circulating about her, but she could see the logic in his proposal.

She just couldn't understand his motivation.

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