The Former Marine

Chapter 73: Media Reactions

The morning after the bar incident, a video of Derek protecting Stassie began circulating on social media. Someone who was present at the scene had recorded Derek confronting the man who had disrespected Stassie, and the footage quickly went viral. Gossip sites, celebrity pages, and Twitter users shared the video incessantly, and soon, Derek's name was trending.

The video clearly showed Derek reacting with agility and control, tackling the man to the ground and demanding an apology. The internet was quick to notice how calm and confident he seemed throughout the incident, and the reactions were overwhelmingly positive.

"Did you guys see this video of Derek? He didn't hesitate to defend Stassie. A true hero!"

"Kylie Jenner definitely chose well! What an incredible man! Protecting his friends like that, everyone should have a Derek."

"Derek is the model of man we need out there. He handled the situation without unnecessary violence, just showing authority. Impressive!"

The video quickly attracted headlines. Sites like TMZ, E! News and People began writing about the incident, and the articles included statements from people present at the bar, who highlighted how quick and efficient Derek had been in handling the situation.

"Derek Rogan, Kylie Jenner's boyfriend, was seen at a Los Angeles bar protecting Stassie Karanikolaou from a man who was harassing her. The video, which has already racked up millions of views, shows Derek taking down the harasser and demanding an apology. The internet went wild over his firm stance, praising his skill and control." — E! News

Derek, however, wasn't interested in all the media attention. He was at home, enjoying a morning with Kylie, when messages and notifications about the video started popping up. Kylie was on her phone, reading the tweets and comments from her followers, many of whom were impressed by Derek's protective stance.

"Did you see this?" Kylie asked, smiling as she showed him her phone screen. "People are calling you a hero."

Derek, sitting at the table with a cup of coffee in his hand, shrugged and smiled slightly. "I just did what anyone would do. I don't like being the center of attention for something like this."

Kylie laughed. "Not everyone would act the way you did. A lot of people would freeze or do nothing. You handled it so calmly and in control. People noticed that."

She showed him one of the comments that read: "Derek's calm and confidence was impressive. He clearly knows how to handle risky situations."

Derek took a sip of coffee, his eyes still focused on Kylie's phone, but he remained humble. "I've been through worse in my time as an operator. This is just training and experience."

As they were talking, Kylie's phone started ringing. It was Kris Jenner. She had just seen the video and was clearly proud of the way Derek had handled it.

"Derek, honey, you were amazing!" Kris exclaimed as Kylie answered the call. "That video is everywhere, and people are saying so much about you. I always knew you were special, but now the whole world is seeing it!"

Derek smiled, thanking Kris for her support. "I'm glad people are seeing this in a positive light. I just don't like all the attention, but if it's for a good thing, then it's okay."

"Of course it's for a good thing!" Kris continued excitedly. "You protected one of Kylie's best friends, and that shows what kind of person you are. Now everyone knows you're trustworthy and brave."

As Kris spoke, Kylie checked more notifications. There were several messages from celebrities and family friends, praising Derek for the way he had handled the situation. Even public figures, including athletes and actors, began sharing the video, commenting on Derek's control and determination.

In a tweet, actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson commented: "This guy Derek Rogan deserves all the praise. He calmly handled the situation and stood up for those in need. Much respect!"

Nike-sponsored athletes, who were already familiar with Derek through his partnership with his gym, also began posting in support of him. One of the NBA players who trained at Derek's gym posted: "My trainer Derek showing us in the video what he teaches us in the gym – control, focus and strength. This guy is the real deal."

Kylie looked at Derek with a smug smile as she read the messages. "You're getting a reputation for being the nicest guy ever. Guess you'll have to get used to it."

Derek shrugged again, laughing. "I think I'll survive."

As the day wore on, the video continued to gain media attention. TV shows, The Ellen Show and Good Morning America have all referenced the video, highlighting Derek's behavior as an example of how men should act in situations of harassment.

"This video shows exactly the kind of response we need to see more of in the world," one host commented. "Not only did Derek Rogan protect a woman from a terrible situation, but he did it with a calm and dignity that many would not have. What an example!"

Through it all, Derek remained true to himself, maintaining his routine and focusing on what was most important to him: Kylie, his family, and his work. Although the media attention was overwhelming, he didn't let it affect who he was or how he lived his life.

That night, as they relaxed on the couch, Kylie turned to him, smiling. "You know you're officially an internet hero now, right?"

Derek laughed, pulling her closer to him. "I just hope this doesn't mean more paparazzi following me around."

"Oh, it definitely will," Kylie joked, kissing him on the cheek. "But it's a small price to pay for being so amazing."

And so, despite all the attention, Derek remained grounded, being exactly who he always was: protective, calm, and reliable.

Chapter 74: A Day with Stormi and Aire

It was a sunny morning in Los Angeles, and Derek had decided that it would be a special day for Stormi and Aire. Kylie had an important meeting, and Derek had volunteered to watch the kids, knowing that it would mean a day full of laughter, games, and precious moments. He already had a deep affection for Stormi and Aire, and to him, they were as important as anything in his life.

Derek was on the living room floor, while Stormi and Aire ran around, laughing loudly as they played with their favorite toys. Stormi, with her big curious eyes and mischievous smile, often challenged Derek to imaginary games, while Aire, still young, was content to follow along with excited giggles and clumsy attempts to imitate her sister.

"Okay, Stormi, what are we going to do now?" Derek asked, pretending to be seriously involved in her game.

"You have to save the castle, Derek! The dragon is coming!" Stormi said, her voice full of urgency, handing him a toy sword. She pointed to a pile of pillows she had arranged to look like the castle that needed to be protected.

"Got it, princess! I'm going to save the castle and defeat the dragon!" Derek smiled, standing up suddenly, grabbing the sword and running around the room, pretending to fight the invisible dragon, which made Stormi and Aire burst out laughing.

Derek always felt light and happy at these moments. Stormi and Aire's innocent laughter filled the house with joy, and he let himself be carried away by the infectious energy of the children. He lifted Aire in his arms, spinning him in the air as the boy laughed uncontrollably. Stormi screamed happily, cheering for Derek and the "rescue" of the castle.

After an hour of playing and adventures in the "imaginary kingdom", the three were exhausted and lying on the living room rug. Derek turned to look at Stormi and Aire, both still laughing and panting from their activities.

"You guys are awesome," he said, smiling at them. "There's nothing better than spending the day with you guys."

Stormi, in her curious way, looked at Derek and asked, "Do you like playing with us, Derek?"

He smiled. "I love it. You guys make me so happy. You guys are amazing."

Stormi, with the simplicity of a child, asked, "Do you love us?"

Derek paused for a moment, watching Stormi and Aire's faces. He knew the answer was much deeper than he could put into words at that moment, but he decided to be as honest as possible.

"Yes, Stormi," Derek replied, his voice calm and sincere. "I love you both like you were my own children."

Stormi beamed from ear to ear and threw herself into Derek's arms, hugging him tightly. Aire, still too young to fully understand, followed her sister's example, crawling over to Derek and hugging his leg with her tiny hands.

Derek felt a warmth grow in his chest. Moments like this reinforced how much he had connected to life alongside Kylie and the children. Even though he wasn't Stormi and Aire's biological father, that didn't change the love and dedication he felt for them. He wanted to be there for them every moment, to protect them and be a supportive figure in their lives.

"You know you can count on me for anything, right?" Derek said, his voice soft as he stroked Stormi's hair. "I'll always be here for you."

Stormi looked up at him with her bright eyes, and Aire, though still too young to fully understand, looked at Derek with innocent curiosity, as if she already felt the love and protection he offered.

After some time of silence and affection, Derek suggested something he knew the children would love: "How about a trip to the park? We can bring the bikes and some toys."

Stormi jumped up and down excitedly. "Yes! Let's go! I want to ride my new bike!"

With that, they started getting ready to head out. Derek helped Stormi put on her bike helmet while he settled Aire into the stroller, making sure they were both comfortable. He then pushed Aire's stroller with one hand while holding Stormi's bike with the other.

At the park, Derek followed closely behind as Stormi pedaled energetically, laughing at every turn and hill. He ran alongside her, always ready to help if she needed it, while Aire watched in fascination, pointing out the birds and trees around them.

After several laps, they stopped under a tree, where Derek had prepared a small picnic. He poured juice for Stormi and Aire and brought out some snacks that he knew they would both love. As they ate, Derek watched the kids with a contented smile, enjoying the simplicity of the moment.

Stormi, with her mouth full of juice, looked up at Derek and said, "You're the best, Derek."

He laughed, shaking his head. "I think you guys are the best."

Back home, after a long day of playing and having fun, Derek put on Aire went to bed, while Stormi was still full of energy, asking to watch a cartoon before bed. He sat next to her on the couch, and little by little, she calmed down, until she finally fell asleep in his arms.

Carefully, Derek carried her to his bed, tucking her in gently and kissing her forehead. He looked down at the two little ones, already fast asleep, and sighed with contentment. There was no other place in the world he would rather be right now.

When Kylie came home later, she found Derek sitting on the couch, looking tired but happy.

"How was your day with the kids?" she asked, smiling as she sat down next to him.

"It was amazing," Derek replied. "They're amazing. And you know... I love them like they were my own children."

Kylie smiled, gently touching Derek's hand. "I know. They adore you, and that means the world to me. You're everything I could ask for."

Derek pulled Kylie closer, and the two of them sat in silence, enjoying the peacefulness of the house after such a joyful day. The love he felt for Stormi and Aire only grew stronger with each passing day, and Derek knew he was exactly where he was supposed to be.

Chapter 75: A Family Day

It was a quiet Sunday, and Derek had decided it would be the perfect day to spend with Kylie, Stormi, and Aire, enjoying family time without the distractions of work or social media. He wanted to create simple but meaningful moments and make sure Stormi and Aire had as much fun as he and Kylie did. The idea was to make the most of their time together, away from busy schedules and routines.

Derek was the first one to wake up early in the morning. He quietly walked downstairs, trying not to make any noise so as not to wake anyone up. He knew that Stormi would soon appear with her inexhaustible energy and Aire would follow, always smiling. But before that happened, he wanted to prepare something special. He decided that he would make a big breakfast for the family—pancakes, eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit, something he knew everyone would love.

As he was preparing the ingredients in the kitchen, Kylie appeared, still in her robe, with a sleepy smile on her face. "Good morning," she said, leaning in to give him a quick kiss.

"Good morning," Derek replied, smiling. "I've decided I'm going to make us breakfast today."

Kylie looked around, impressed by Derek's organization. "You really know how to spoil us, huh?"

He laughed. "I just want us to have a nice, relaxing day together. No rush, no commitments. Just the four of us."

Before Kylie could respond, Stormi came running into the kitchen, full of energy. "What's this? It smells so good!" she exclaimed, climbing up onto a chair to see what Derek was cooking.

"Pancakes!" Derek replied, holding up a spatula with a stack of golden pancakes. "Do you want to help make them, Stormi?"

Stormi's eyes lit up. "Yes!" She hurried to grab her stool, positioning it next to Derek.

"Okay, you can help me mix the batter," Derek said, handing Stormi the bowl of pancake batter. He gently guided her little hands as he stirred the mixture.

Meanwhile, Aire woke up and began babbling in her crib. Kylie went to get him and returned to the kitchen with the little one on her lap, who looked curiously at the commotion.

With breakfast ready, everyone sat down at the table. Derek placed an assortment of fruits on Stormi's plate and helped Aire hold small pieces of pancake. Kylie looked at Derek in awe as he patiently served the children. "You really know how to make it look easy," she commented, laughing.

Derek shrugged, smiling. "I just try to keep up with them. Besides, cooking is fun, especially when you have such great helpers as Stormi."

Stormi beamed proudly and then began telling Derek and Kylie about a cartoon she had recently watched. "And then the dragon made friends with the knight! It was so cool!"

Aire, even though she didn't fully understand, laughed along with her sister's excitement, waving her little hands.

After breakfast, Derek suggested they spend the morning watching some children's movies, something he knew Stormi would love. "What do you think about watching 'Frozen' again, Stormi?" he asked, already knowing the answer.

"Yes! Yes! I want to see Elsa!" Stormi shouted, running into the TV room.

With Stormi excited and Aire babbling happily on Kylie's lap, everyone settled down on the couch. Derek made sure to prepare a light snack to go with the movie, with popcorn and juice for the kids, creating a movie-theater atmosphere in the comfort of home.

As the movie started, Derek felt a sense of peace. He snuggled up on the couch next to Kylie, who was resting with Aire in her arms. Stormi, already fully immersed in the magical world of Arendelle, sang along enthusiastically to the songs.

"Let it go, let it go!" She sang, and Derek and Kylie laughed at her performance, captivated by Stormi's energy.

Halfway through the movie, Derek noticed that Aire's attention was waning, and he started playing with the little one, tickling her and making her laugh while Kylie and Stormi remained focused on the screen.

When the movie ended, Stormi quickly stood up, full of energy.

"Can we play outside now?" she asked, her eyes shining with anticipation.

Derek looked at Kylie and together they decided it would be a good idea to take the children to the garden.

"Sure, Stormi! Let's get your ball and play a little."

They spent the next hour in the garden, running, throwing a ball and playing hide-and-seek. Derek ran around with Aire in his arms, while Stormi hid behind the trees and bushes, always laughing and calling for them. After all that running and playing, it was time for lunch. Derek decided to take over the kitchen once again and prepare something special for the family.

"I'm going to make pasta and meatballs. What do you think?" he asked, knowing that it was one of Stormi's favorite dishes.

"I love pasta!" Stormi exclaimed, jumping for joy.

Derek smiled, and was soon in the kitchen, preparing the meal was prepared with dedication. Kylie was impressed by his skill, not only as a father and partner, but also as a great cook. She helped chop some ingredients, while Aire, in her high chair, watched everything curiously.

The delicious smell of fresh tomato sauce and meatballs soon filled the house, and everyone was eager to eat. Derek served the dishes, and they sat down at the table again, this time for a lunch full of laughter and conversations about the day's adventures.

"This is delicious, Derek!" Kylie praised, savoring the meal.

Stormi, with a big smile, said: "This is the best pasta in the world!"

Derek, pleased with the compliments, just smiled and continued eating, feeling grateful for those simple but meaningful moments. He looked at Kylie, who returned the smile, both recognizing the value of the time they were sharing with the children.

After lunch, everyone was a little calmer and tired from the morning's activities. Stormi and Aire went to take a nap, while Derek and Kylie lay down on the couch, finally having some quiet time to themselves.

"I love these days," Kylie said, sighing as she rested her head on Derek's shoulder. "Just the four of us, no worries."

"Me too," Derek replied, stroking her hair. "It doesn't get any better than this."

As the afternoon wore on, the day slowed down. When the kids woke up from their nap, they spent the rest of the day drawing with Derek and Kylie, each creating their own masterpieces on paper. Later, Derek suggested a light dinner, and they ended the day with a simple, enjoyable meal.

When he tucked Stormi and Aire in for bed that night, Derek kissed them tenderly on the forehead and said, "I love you both, and I'm so grateful to have you in my life."

Kylie smiled as she watched the scene, feeling equally grateful for Derek and everything he meant to the family.

The day ended with Derek and Kylie sitting on the porch, sipping a drink and looking up at the stars. "I think today was one of the best days we've ever had," Kylie said, looking at Derek fondly.

"Absolutely," he agreed. "And we'll have many more like it."

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