“Is there any point? I mean, he barely lets you leave the house as it is.”
After my secret run-in with Oscar at the university library, I’m surprised Kieran hasn’t shackled me to the bed, but I don’t tell Lucy that.
“Which is why I need a good story. Something where he has no choice but to say yes.”
Lucy sighs and sets down the carton of creamer on the counter before picking up her phone so she can scowl directly into the camera.
“Riley. You can’t keep this a secret forever.”
“I know that!” I instantly regret the sharpness in my tone. “Sorry. I just… I tried last night, okay? I had it all planned out. I made him a nice dinner, and then I was going to tell him about the baby over dessert, but then the phone rang, and he had to leave,again.”
My voice cracks, and I look away as I try to hold myself together. “Why does this happen every time I try to speak to him? Sometimes, I feel like that damn phone is the third wheel in our marriage.”
“Well, at least it’s not a hooker, or worse. His mother. Have you seen some of those psycho mother-in-law stories online? These women are bat-shit crazy.”
I huff a laugh. “You always find a silver lining.”
“That’s what I’m here for!”
“It feels like the universe doesn’t want me to tell him.”
“Or maybe the universe is waiting for you to grow a spine.”
“Maybe…”
“Look, if you really need a cover, tell him you’re picking something up from the hospital for Ciara. He won’t question that.”
I bite my lip. “Like what?”
“I don’t know, ask Ciara. She’ll come up with something.”
“Okay, I’ll do that.”
“Keep me updated!” She hangs up.
I decide to do as Lucy suggested and go in search of Ciara.
“I think you can officially say that Ronan has been replaced by a yoga ball,” I tease when I enter her bedroom.
Ciara sighs, rubbing her back. “I’m sure there’s a good innuendo for that, but I’m too tired to think of one.”
“Save that for Mila.”
“Exactly.” She laughs. “So, what’s up?”
“Nothing much. Just wanted to see how you were holding up.”
“Still pregnant. I swear these babies are never coming out.”
“You just made it too comfortable for them in there.” I perch on the end of the bed.
“Hmm… Well, they’re about to get served with an eviction notice if they’re not careful,” she grumbles, but there’s a hint of a smile on her lips. “I just want to meet them already.”
“Me too.”
“It’s going to be so nice having all the family around. I know you’re sort of here against your will, but I still really appreciate having you around and all the help you’ve given me and Ronan.”
“It’s my pleasure. I never got to experience the whole big family thing, and it’s…”
