I run my fingers through his thick hair. “I’ve missed you too. Maybe we could go on a trip like that together sometime. To England or France or Italy. I’m glad I went, but the whole time, I kept wishing you were with me so I could share it with you.”
He smiles. “I’d love that. I showed Hazel your photos, and she has a million questions.”
“I can’t wait to see her.” I press my hand to my stomach.
“Are you feeling okay?”
“Yeah, just nervous about my court appointment tomorrow. Do you really think Jinxy’s brother will come through?”
“He’s supposed to be the best guy in town to handle this sort of thing.”
“I can’t believe he’s doing this pro bono.”
“Jinxy is paying his brother with playoff tickets. And don’t feel bad. He owes you for stirring up all that shit. It’s the least he can do.”
I nod, then notice the Christmas tree in the corner. “I’m sad I missed opening presents with you and Hazel.”
He grabs my hand and tugs me to the other side of the living room where there’s a pile of gifts. “We waited.”
My eyes sting. “You’re so sweet.” I wave at my face. “Now I understand why I’ve been so emotional. And jeez, Nick, I wonder if it happened that time the condom broke. I was so dismissive, but I had just started new birth control. What if it was my fault? I told you we were fine, but—”
“Baby, it’s all good. I’m starting to think you and I were meant to be. So don’t stress about the details.”
He looks genuinely happy, and I finally start to relax. Nick and I are really happening. I’m so relieved he took the baby news well.
I throw my arms around his neck. “I love you so much. And I know you were stressed about me going on a trip by myself. Thank you for trusting in my abilities. I might’ve had a little help. Baylee saged me to get rid of my bad juju so I wouldn’t have any more mishaps.”
“Saged?”
“She burned sage and waved it around me while she said this prayer. Apparently, it’s something her family does. All I know is I’ll take whatever good vibes she wants to send my way.”
“Good vibes are always appreciated.” He rubs his nose against mine.
I nibble his bottom lip and lower my voice. “I know we agreed we wouldn’t have sex before your game, but we’ll have more time to abstain. I know you’re going to make it to the championship again. It’s just been so long since we’ve…”
“Fucked each other’s brains out?” he asks with a laugh.
“Yes. So what do you think? Can we bang like bunnies tonight and then hold off until the quarterfinal game? Though…” I kiss him, then rub my nose against his. “If I can bring you any luck at all, I’m happy to do so. I know you’re nothing like my ex, and I’m sorry I didn’t just talk to you after that convo with Jinxy at the diner.”
Nick hugs me tight. “We’ll get better at this. I swear.” He gives me a heart-stopping smile. “I’m so glad you’re home. Let me grab the rest of your stuff from my car.”
“I’ll go take a quick shower. Meet me in my bedroom in half an hour?”
“You mean our bedroom.”
I pause. “You want me to sleep in your bed?”
“If that’s okay? I already told Hazel you would stay with me. She thinks we’re going to have sleepovers.”
I can’t help but hop up and down on my toes. “I don’t know how much sleep you’re getting tonight, but yes!”
Giddy, I jump in the shower and scrub off the travel grime. When I’m done, I wipe the condensation off the mirror and stare at my naked body. Holding my stomach, I turn one way, then the other.
I don’t think I look that much different.
That’s when it really hits me. I’m pregnant with Nick’s baby!
Nothing could make me happier than his sweet response at the airport when I gave him my news. I was so worried on the flight, but he completely erased my fears with his confidence in us.
