“What are you doing?”
“I’m ready to look. It was silly to be nervous before. I couldn’t have a baby by myself, but with you by my side, I can do anything. Even have a baby.”
“We have a full house of people who will help us if we need it.” Not to mention, Mama Virgie would probably want to move into the clubhouse to help us with the baby. “But I know you’re going to be a wonderful mama. The best our child could ever ask for.”
“Now you’re going to make me cry.” Her eyes were tearing up. “You’re going to be a terrific dad, Andy.”
“Heck yeah, I am.” I kissed her nose. “Don’t cry, baby.”
She may not have known, but lately, she was a lot more emotional than usual.
There were other things I noticed that had changed with her, like she’d put on a little weight, what I affectionately called happy pounds. Her breasts seemed heavier, and she slept through the night. She thought her insomnia was gone because Miguel was dead. It was possible, but I suspected it was pregnancy hormones.
“Whatever you want to do is fine with me. We can look at the result another time.” I didn’t want to pressure her. I alreadyknew she was pregnant. There were too many signs pointing to us having a baby. Silvia had to notice, but she was probably in denial.
“I guess I’m just worried about my dark past. I wouldn’t wish anything like it on an innocent child.”
“That’s fair, but I assure you, I will protect you and our children.”
“I know.” She hugged me and I swayed with her, humming the melody of the song. She needed time, and I was happy to give her as much as she needed.
After a few quiet minutes, she slowly lifted the test up and we both read it at the same time.
Pregnant.
I lifted her off the ground and kissed her passionately, spinning her in a circle. “We’re having a baby, my love! You know what that means?”
“Morning sickness and stretch marks?”
“No.” I furrowed my brow.
“Sleepless nights and blowout diapers?’
“No.”
“Eighteen years of worrying if we’re screwing up our child or if they love us?”
“Aye yai yai, Silvia. Is that how you really feel?” I sensed she was screwing with me, but I wasn’t totally sure.
“I’m teasing, my grumpy man. I’m over the moon!” She kissed me hard. “So, what does it mean?’
“That it’s time to claim you in the club and put a ring on your finger.” I lowered to one knee and presented a diamond engagement ring.
“Andy, are you asking me to marry you before claiming me in the club?” She smirked, giving me a little attitude.
“Let me remind you that it was you who didn’t want to be claimed yet. I was ready to do it the day Miguel shot up theclubhouse. I mean, I did claim you to my crew.” I had to tell her the truth before one of my brothers did, most likely Quino.
“I knew you did. Yoli told me.”
“She has a big mouth.” I growled. The damn woman needed to find a man to occupy her time, so she’d stay out of everyone else’s business.
“She’s my informant. She knows everything that goes on around here.”
Lord, help me with this one. Silvia had earned the respect of every member of the club when she surrendered herself to Miguel, including the most difficult sweet butt, Yoli.
“Silvia Avila, will you marry me?” I stared at her, patiently waiting for her answer. “Yes or no.”
“You’re so romantic.” She rolled her eyes, giving me some of her sweet sass. Then she let me put the diamond ring on her finger and looped her arms around my neck. “Yes, Andy Garcia. I’ll marry you.”