“I admit it was like that at first… but after spending timewith you, that changed.”
Fuck me.Don’t tell me she thinks she’s in love with me.
“Shae, look.The truth is that I’m in love with someoneelse.The Council doesn’t approve of her, and that’s the only reason you’rehere.”
“So I’m the consolation prize?”
“I’m just being honest with you.Even if I were to take youas my mate, it would simply be out of obligation.”
“I see.”
“Please… just go home.”
“It’s really late.Can I at least stay the night?I’ll leavefirst thing in the morning.”
“Fine.You can use any one of the spare rooms you like.”
She picks up her clothes and walks out dejectedly.I don’tmean to hurt her, but it’s best if I’m honest; that way, she knows exactly whatto expect.I remove the sheets from the mattress and toss them into the laundrybasket.There’s no way I’d be able to sleep with her scent all over them.Ijust wish Casey’s hadn’t faded.
***Casey***
“I’m going to miss you so much!”I cling to Sandy, reluctantto let her go.
“Me, too.I wish I didn’t have to go.”
“Call me as soon as you land.”
“I will… and make sure you keep me posted on my little nieceor nephew.”
“Of course.”
“Now, remember what the doctor said and don’t tire yourselfout.”
“I won’t.”
“And—”
“Go.”I giggle.“Or you’ll miss your flight.”
“Okay.I love you.”
“I love you, too.”
Watching her leave breaks my heart.She turns around everycouple of steps and waves.I really wish she could stay.When she’s finally outof sight, I make my way back to the car.On the way home, I stop at a pharmacyin Billings to fill the prescription the doctor gave me—prenatal vitamins andsuch.I’m now committed to little EJ or Katy, no matter what the situation maybe with his/her father.I know he’d be a great dad, too.Oh, well; he has hismother to thank for missing out.I still have some time before I start showing,so I should be able to figure out a plan by then.
In the pharmacy, I’m instantly drawn to the baby aisle.Things I didn’t even look at before are now the cutest things I’ve ever seen—bottles,pacifiers, bibs… even diapers.I can’t wait to start shopping!
On my way out, who should I bump into but the devil herself?Be the bigger person, Casey.
“Helena.”
She smirks and folds her arms across her chest.
“Well, hello.”
“How are you?”
“Good, now that my son is on the right path.”
