“I don’t know.” My heart is in my mouth.
“Would you come with me?”
I frown. “Are you sure that’s a good idea?”
“No.” His mouth twists into a nervous, almost frightened smile. “But you’re part of my life now. Whatever Niamh decides about Aidan affects you too. I want you there if you’ll come.”
I reach across the bed and squeeze his hand. “Of course I will. It’ll be okay.”
He nods. “Thanks.”
I hope to God I’m right.
23
CALLAN
My heart is pounding as we arrive at the coffee shop. Aidan is in the baby carrier, and Rory is by my side. I want to hold his hand, but I’ve never held a man’s hand in public before. Being open in front of his housemates is one thing but in front of the rest of the world? I’m ashamed to say I’m not ready for that. Between us, we’re carrying Aidan’s things.
Niamh is sitting at a table near the window. She has a mug in front of her and a plate with a piece of untouched chocolate cake. She stares at us when we enter, and I assume she was watching for our arrival. Her brow furrows as she looks at Rory.
“I’ll get drinks,” Rory says. “It’ll give you a moment to talk.” He peels off towards the counter.
I walk across to Niamh and sit opposite her. I go to unclip the carrier so that she can hold Aidan.
She holds up her hand. “It looks like he’s asleep.”
“He is.”
“Leave him, then.”
My gut twists. If our roles had been reversed and I hadn’t seen my son in a week, I think I’d be desperate to hold him in my arms.
“Who’s that?” Niamh nods toward Rory.
I look over my shoulder. He’s talking to the girl behind the counter.
“My friend, Rory.”
“The one you’re staying with?”
I nod.
A muscle in her jaw flexes. “Why is he here?”
Can I admit I need moral support? “I thought you might like to meet him.”
“Why?”
Because he’s one of the most important things in my life right now. I stroke Aidan’s hair. He gives a windy half smile but doesn’t wake.
“I brought Aidan’s clothes, nappies, and things.”
“Why?”
I jerk my head back. “What do you mean, why? I thought—”
“I’m not ready to have him back yet.” She looks away. “How has he been?”
