After twenty or so minutes, we’ve all finished our glasses, but Kodi’s is still full to the brim.
I elbow her while the other girls are talking about how Mace has his first crush and Enid doesn’t know how to handle all the testosterone she’s surrounded by.
“Babes, you better admit why you’re not drinking or pour that into mine before someone says something,” I whisper to her, there’s only one reason she wouldn’t be indulging, and although she hasn’t said it, my intuition knows.
“I don’t want to take away from Hayden, D, and Tate’s day.” The exasperation is heavy in her tone.
“Do you think that your best friend in the entire world is going to be mad at you for your dream of finally becoming a mom coming true?” I encourage.
“No, obviously not.”
“So then spit it out.”
Kodi coughs, setting her wine glass down and grabbing the other’s attention. “I have some news.”
We all sit quietly in anticipation, wondering what she’s doing to say, but I can see all of the hope glimmering behind our eyes.
“I’m pregnant!” Her voice filled with emotion–excitement, fear, anticipation. A cacophony of squeals breaks loose as we all stand, surrounding her, saying our congratulations, and peppering her with questions regarding our future niece or nephew.
The noise draws Rose’s attention from where she sits on the couch, scrolling through her phone. She stands and joins us on the deck, where another chorus of noise ensues as we all share the excitement of Kodi and Maverick’s pregnancy.
“Okay, so to answer questions. I found out right after Christmas, we don’t know the gender, everything looks good, morning sickness does last all day just like D told me and yes you all will obviously be planning my baby shower.” Kodi says after we’ve calmed down.
“This is so exciting! Do you have baby shower themes chosen already?” Darcy asks.
“Duh. For a girl, I’m thinking ‘A Little Cutie is on the Way’ and for a boy ‘Slice, Slice, Baby’ because that’s all I’ve been craving.” Kodi responds enthusiastically.
“Um, love those.” I say.
“Oooooo if we do pizza, we can order New York style from that one place downtown that’s so freaking good and serves the slices as big as your head.” Enid cheers.
“Well, I know what I’m making Mav pick up for dinner tonight.” Kodi laughs.
“Same.” We all decide together.
As soon as Maverick and Bella arrive for Hayden’s party, we once again broke out in congratulations.
Strong arms wrap around me from behind as I stand with Enid and Conrad, as party guests continue to flow into the beach house.
“Hi, Peppermint.” Collins’ silky voice fills my ears, I turn giving him my attention.
“Hey there.” I smile at him, taking in the loose curl that dangles over his forehead, the plain navy t-shirt that’s sculpted to his chest, and the chinos that hang from his hips.
“You look very pretty today.”
“Thank you. So do you.”
Collins laughs before pulling me in for a quick kiss, then turning me back toward Enid and Conrad, keeping his arms linked around me.
“How is everything going for y’all?” Conrad prods.
“Pretty good, just taking it day by day. Enjoying our time together.” Collins responds easily, like he didn’t even have to think about what he was going to say.
Enid smiles loopily, “I’m obsessed with you guys.”
“I feel like every time I leave her with you girls, she gets wine drunk.” Conrads accuses.
“Blame Darcy, she wanted to be buzzed before she had to host.” I shrug, “Plus Enid is fine. She’s got you to make sure she gets home okay.”
