Because the truth is, I want him all the time—morning, night, in between. It's like pregnancy has turned me into someone I don't recognize, someone who can't keep her hands off Tucker Stag.
"We should get dressed," I say instead. "Don't you have that team thing?"
"Yeah." He doesn't move, still holding me. "But I'd rather stay here with you."
"Tucker—"
"I know, I know. Responsibilities." He kisses my forehead and steps back. "But for the record? I really like what we've got going. And I want more.”
I watch him walk away toward his bedroom, completely naked and utterly comfortable. And I think: This is dangerous. This is so, so dangerous.
My epidemiology class is going better than I expected. Professor Newman handed back our midterm exams today, and I got an A-.
"Nice work, Sloane," she said as she placed the exam on my desk. "Your analysis of the outbreak data was particularly strong. Have you thought about what you want to focus on for your final project?"
"Maternal health disparities," I said immediately. It's been on my mind lately—how Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy complications than white women. Access to quality prenatal care is still dependent on zip code and income level.
How I'm lucky to have excellent care, and how wrong that is.
"Excellent choice," Professor Newman had said. "Come to my office hours next week and we'll discuss scope."
Now I'm in the library, reading articles about preeclampsia rates and making notes for my project proposal. My phone buzzes with a text from Mel.
Mel
Dinner at my place tonight? Pete's bringing Thai food, and we need a third to referee our legal arguments.
I smile, typing back.
Can't. Tucker has a thing. Rain check?
Mel
You've said that the last three times I've invited you over. Beginning to think you're avoiding me.
Not avoiding. Just busy.
Mel
Busy having sex with your baby daddy?
I nearly drop my phone. Look around the library to make sure no one saw.
Mel!
Mel
I'm right, though, aren't I? You mentioned you were "busy" when I called at 2 pm on Tuesday. Very suspicious.
We're not talking about this.
Mel
Fine. But come to dinner soon. I miss you.
I promise her I will, even though I'm not sure when. Between school, doctor appointments, and Tucker?—
Tucker. Who's always there. Always wanting me as fiercely as I want him. Always making me feel good.
