I hit the button in the center, and the rapid whooshing sound comes out. Emotions swell again as I lay my hand over my belly. I will never get used to hearing my baby’s heartbeat.
Huxley’s eyes soften, and a gentle grin tugs at his mouth. “Is it supposed to be that fast?” His voice is raspy with affection, surprise…and a tinge of concern.
“Yes. The baby’s healthy. The doc said it’s maybe the size of a blueberry.” Smiling, I demonstrate with my thumb and index finger. “Actually, probably a little bigger now.” I make the gap wider.
“I want to go with you when you go next time. Who’s your OB-GYN, by the way?”
“Dr. Silverman. Elizabeth—my boss—referred me. She’s really good.”
Huxley nods. “I’ve heard the same. Two of my sisters-in-law have had babies, and a third is pregnant.”
“Do you need me to consult with you about your schedule before I set up the next appointment?”
“No. Just send the info to Madison so she can add it to my calendar.”
He’s so agreeable and attentive. Totally different from how he was when I texted him. He might’ve been under a lot ofpressure because of the trip to London. He almost missed the wedding too, because the business there was so hectic.
Do not pick at the situation.I’m lucky that he’s trying to be the kind of father I dreamed my baby could have.
Chapter Thirty-Six
Huxley
Grace and I have a lazy Sunday. Although her refusal to completely cut Adam out of her life is disappointing, I accept she’s compromised as much as she can. Still,how can she not see that he’s into her?He doesn’t even try to hide it. What kind of friend barges into a friend’s house on her wedding night, knowing exactly what he’s going to be interrupting? I’d bet a billion dollars Adam did it on purpose.
Bastard.
Grace and I spoon on the largest sofa, cuddling as a couple on TV fight. The guy supposedly cheated on the girl and—of course—got caught.
“Why do guys cheat?” Grace shakes her head. “They always get found out.”
I run my fingers through the silky strands of her hair. She smells amazing. Like my shampoo, but better. “They think they’re smarter than everyone, especially their significant others. If they respected their partners, they wouldn’t cheat.”
“Isn’t that just sad?”
“You thinking of your ex?”
“And Viv.” She makes a displeased sound deep in her throat. “They were doing itat my place, too.”
“Idiots.” What moron would trade Grace for Vivienne? Might as well swap a Bugatti for a Ford Pinto. And speaking of nice stuff… “I got a present for you.”
“You did?” She blinks.
“Technically, it’s for the baby,” I clarify, in case she becomes disappointed I didn’t bring any jewelry for her.
“Isn’t it a bit too early to start buying baby stuff?” she teases.
“Yeah, but I saw it on display and had to have it. You’ll love it. Lemme see… Where is it?” Madison should’ve had it delivered during the ceremony. She took care of my bags and paperwork after we landed.
Then I see it—the most perfect stroller in the discreet corner between the kitchen and the living room. The design is very British, and it caught my eye when I was passing by a high-end baby goods store.
Casually I get up, then roll it toward Grace. A broad smile splits my face. “Ta-da!”
Her eyes widen; her jaw goes slack.
“Shiny and chic.” I grin. “What do you think? Nice, right?”
“Uh. Yeah. The design’s really, um…European?” She stares at it for a moment, reaches out to touch the body, then stops. “Is it made of brass?”
