Page 36 of Wait for the Dream

Sugarplum Cafe has this amazing sugarplum pound cake that Rowan has demanded almost every day. At my last appointment the doctor told me I should be more active, so I take the fifteen minute walk to get my daily slice of cake. Today, I’m meeting Maggy to work on homework.

The bell over the door dings, and I look up and freeze at the sight of Daniel walking through the door. It’s a small campus, and I knew I would probably run into him at some point, but I don’t know what to expect from this interaction. I’m tired, and not really in the mood. Hopefully Maggy is almost here, so I will have back up if it doesn’t go well.

Me: How far out are you?

Maggy: Four minutes and Chloe decided to come with me, why? What’s up?

Me: Daniel just walked in and I might need back up.

Maggy: I’ll be as fast as I can. Text the group chat. See if anyone else is around.

*game night gang group chat*

Me: is anyone close to Sugarplum?

Maddox: Aren’t you meeting Maggy there?

Me: She’s almost here, but Daniel just walked in. I’m not sure he’s even going to say anything, but thought I’d ask just in case.

Bear: I’m walking out of class right now, be there in five

Sebastian: I’m next door at Subside Story. I’m walking out the door right now.

Bear: I’m still coming

Maddox: Looks like y’all got it covered, let me know if you need me tho.

Dallas: Same.

Chloe: I’m with Maggy. Ready to throw down.

Me: SMH, thanks guys.

Sebastian walks through the door seconds later, and comes over to sit at my table, “You alright, Bee?” My grumpy friend asks.

“I’m alright. I really hope he doesn’t say—” my words are cut off by a shadow looming over my table.

“Bailey.” Daniel’s face is completely void of emotion when I look up at him.

“Hey Daniel,” I say, trying to sound more confident than I feel.

“How are you feeling?” Daniel asks. His eyes keep flicking from my face to my very obvious baby bump.

“I’m okay. Tired today.” I run a hand over my belly. “Baby is doing well. The first trimester was a struggle, but things have been better for a few weeks now.”

“Good, I’m glad.” He doesn’t actually sound like he means that. “Listen, I’ve seen you on campus a few times over the last few months. I have to ask, are you sure the baby is mine. You always seem to be with that Aiden guy whenever I see you.”

“Aiden and I might be together now, but hadn’t crossed that line yet when we met, Daniel.” I ball my hands into fists at the top of my belly, trying to calm the rage flowing through me. “Like I told you before, the night we slept together, I hadn't been with anyone in over a year.”

“You asked for a paternity test to sign away your rights,” Sebastian says, “I’m sure the results will prove she’s not the liar you think she is.”

“I don’t want any trouble, I just had to ask. They seemed so close that night, and seeing them on campus repeatedly makes it seem so sketchy.” Daniel holds his hands up in mock surrender. “My family has a lot of money, you’d be surprised what people will do to get a piece of it.”

A laugh completely devoid of humor comes from behind Sebastian, “You clearly don’t know who my family is,” Aiden comes to stand right next to me, “Bailey doesn’t need your money, Daniel.”

“Okay, again, I don’t want any trouble. I just had to ask.” Daniel begins to back away, “I look forward to hearing from your lawyers.” He leaves the cafe without another glance.

I turn to Aiden and look in his eyes, “Get me out of here, please.”