Chapter 21
Back in their hotel room that night, Gabe needed a moment to reflect. He excused himself and retreated to the impressive green marble bathroom. If he turned on the shower, she would probably join him, so he simply sat on the edge of the tub for a few minutes.
All afternoon, Misty had been nothing but excited about the prospect of becoming a muse. There were certain advantages to him too, if he were honest.
Not having to worry about her health was a biggie. Even the inevitable—death—would no longer be a problem! No wonder his older brothers were so damn happy. Well, two out of the three. As far as he knew, Sandra was still very human. And until recently, his own mother was in the dark when it came to Gaia’s existence. So his father and Miguel were still willing to risk loss in order to love.
So was he. Misty didn’t have to do this, and he needed to make sure she knew it.
A knock at the door made him smile. He was tempted to be a smart-ass and askWho is it?
“Can I come in?” Misty asked through the door.
“Sure.”
As soon as she stepped in, he perused her naked body. Even six months pregnant, she was beautiful. Her hair had grown longer and shinier than ever. It was almost to her waist. Her breasts were noticeably fuller, getting ready to nurse their child.
“Would you like to join me in the shower?” Gabe asked.
“Maybe in a minute. First, I want to apologize.”
Surprised, Gabe asked, “For what?”
She sat next to him on the tub and took his hand in hers. Her beautiful blue eyes conveyed a touch of sadness. “I’ve been so excited about this whole muse thing, I didn’t even consider how you would feel about it. I want to know what you think.”
Gabe slipped his arm around her shoulder. “Actually, I was just mulling the whole thing over in my mind. The only thing I’ve decided for certain is that you don’t have to take this on if you don’t want to. Don’t worry about me worrying about you. We’ll cope no matter what. I know it’s tempting, but if you have any misgivings at all, I want you to investigate them before making a final decision.”
“Thank you.” She laid her head on his shoulder. “I was getting a little carried away earlier. I think I ought to talk to Kristine or Chloe. Do you have their phone numbers?”
“No need,” Kristine’s voice announced. “Gaia said you might want to talk.”
Misty’s gaze ricocheted all over the bathroom as she covered her breasts and mons with her hands. “Where are you? Can you see me?”
“I’m in the ether, facing the other way.”
Sure you are…Gabe almost snickered. Thank goodness he was still dressed.
“Give me a minute to throw on a robe, okay?” Misty dashed to the bedroom, and Gabe followed her. She wrapped herself in her red satin robe and tied it above her belly. Even though it was opaque, it was sexy as hell, clinging to her curves and leaving little to the imagination.
“Ready,” she called out.
Kristine appeared near their window, looking out at the view. She turned around and smiled. “Beautiful room you have here. I was hoping you’d have a view of the Grand Canal, and I see that you do.”
Still barefoot, Misty crossed the painted tile floor. “Yes. It’s a terrific view. Be sure to tell everyone thank you for us when you get back.” As soon as she reached her sister-in-law, they hugged.
Kristine backed up, still holding Misty’s shoulders. Glancing down, she said, “Your baby’s growing by leaps and bounds. Is it seven months already?”
“Six.” There was a bench near the window, and Misty sat on it, patting the space next to her. “Have a seat, Kristine.”
“I can’t stay. I have dinner in the oven. I set the timer so I can hear it. There’s about fifteen minutes before the lasagna is done.”
Gabe wandered over and took the seat next to Misty. “Mmm, lasagna. I know what I’ll be ordering when we go out tonight.”
Misty laughed. “All he thinks about is his stomach.”
He patted her expanding belly. “And yours.”
Kristine grinned. “You two are the perfect pair. I’m so glad you got together.”
