Chapter 495

Joshua had been about to give Queenie a good talking-to, but her obedience and coquettishness as she tried to coax him immediately dissipated his anger. She held him tight and leaned against his chest, listening to his strong heartbeat. When he didn't say anything, she asked softly, "Are you still mad at me, Mr. Newman? I promise I'll change—don't ignore me, okay?" Joshua looked down at her when he heard her giving in to him. "Call me something nice." Something nice? This took her aback. After some thought, she tentatively said, "Daddy." His expression darkened. Suddenly, Queenie found that it was quite fun to tease him. Joshua watched as her smile widened. Then, she couldn't hold it in any longer and burst into laughter. It looked like she'd really warmed up to him now—she had the nerve to tease him about his sore spot. Joshua was still Joshua, though. He had plenty of ways to deal with her. As she laughed in his arms, he lifted her and turned her so she was facing him. She sat