Emmett moves to the other side of my room, picking up Blake’s diaper bag and setting it on the bed next to us. “Does she have everything she needs in here?”
When our eyes connect, I know he can see the emotion as it coats my vision.
“Is everything okay?” His voice is layered with concern.
The temptation to admit the truth—that his kindness is the reason behind the lump forming in my throat—is strong. Tucker should be the one sorting Blake’s bag even if he’s the last person I’d want to take her to the park for the first time.
I swallow past the lump, feeling a sense of relief that it’s Emmett instead of my ex.
“Hormones,” is all I say in the end. It’s an easy lie and a more than believable one too. When new mothers claim that having a baby fucks with your emotions, they aren’t freaking kidding.
He looks like he wants to say something, although he doesn’t. Instead, he reaches a hand out to Blake, smoothing a huge palm down her back.
Her sobs ebb in response, although I chalk it up to a coincidence. This man might be comfortable around children, but there’s no way he can be a full-on baby whisperer.
“All right.” Emmett’s voice is a touch gravelly. “Do you want me to watch her while you take a shower? I’d ask Scott, but it might be dark by the time he’s climbed the stairs.” He snorts a laugh, which pulls one from me.
“Yes, thanks,” I reply, setting a calmer Blake back down in her bassinet. “Her diaper bag has everything she needs in it.” Our eyes connect again, spreading a warm, safe feeling throughout me. “I’ll be right back.”
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
EMMETT
Jack renamed the group chat: Blade Boys for Life.
Sawyer
I’m retired. How am I still a member of this group chat?
Tommy
Let’s be real. It’s not like this group chat is ever about hockey.
Archer
And even when it is, the conversation quickly descends into chaos.
Jack
Oh, just fuck off.
Archer
I rest my case.
Jack
And here I was, about to invite you all over to our place for dinner and drinks next Saturday. I’m now reconsidering my generosity.
Me
What the fuck did I do?
Jack
Only Emmett is invited.
Tommy
