Ivy shrugs. “Yes. And that is famously what friends are for. Helping. Occasionally without asking first.”
“That’s different,” I insist. “This is money. This is… loaded.”
“Everything’s loaded right now,” she says calmly. “You’re growing a human. That alone turns every spreadsheet into a horror film.”
I scowl at my cup. “I don’t want him thinking he has to provide for me.”
“I don’t think he does,” Ivy says. “I think he’s thinking ahead.”
She leans in slightly. “You’ve got GP appointments, scans, baby stuff, and maternity leave maths that will make you cry, and that’s before Pea-Lime even arrives and starts needing things with price tags.”
I open my mouth, then shut it again.
“And,” she adds gently, “every penny you save now is going to feel like a godsend later. Because, when the baby’s actually here and Geoff does help more, you’re going to spiral.”
“I am not,” I say automatically.
She gives me a look.
“…I might,” I concede.
“Exactly,” she says. “Right now, this is quiet. It’s background. It’s not him swooping in with nappies and a five-year plan. It’s just space. Breathing room.”
I blow out a slow breath. “I hate how much sense you’re making.”
“I know,” she says kindly. “I hate it when I do it too.”
I sit there for a moment, letting the noise of the coffee shop fill the gap. Cups clinking. Theo joking with his waiters. Life happening around us like it always does.
“I still don’t like it,” I say.
“You don’t have to like it,” Ivy replies. “You just have to let it help.”
I glance up at her. “And if I start feeling weird about it?”
She smiles. “Then you yell at him. Loudly. He can take it.”
I huff a laugh despite myself. “He really can.”
“There you go,” she says. “Problem deferred.”
I pick up my tea again and take a sip. It’s still useless, but somehow that feels less offensive now.
“Fine,” I mutter. “I’ll… let it stand. For now.”
Ivy’s smile softens. “That’s all anyone’s asking.”
I look down at my stomach, then back at my tea.
“Pea-Lime better appreciate this,” I say.
Ivy grins. “Pea-Lime already runs the place. You’re just catching up.”
19
Conscience with Better Hair
Geoff
