Page 67 of My Heart Belongs to You

“I’ll think about it.”

Her smile was pleasant. “Please do, Nadir. I know it’s not an easy choice to make, but I know you’ll do what’s best for you and your path to healing.”

Valerie’s words lingered as I turned onto Summer’s street. Harmony on Main was the place to live right now. The community had single family homes as well as town houses, with two clubhouses, a fitness center, pools, and a splash park. Several of my peers moved into the community within the last two years. Coming here used to be a sore spot. Many nights, I’d drive around after work, envisioning my family living here. We toured two townhouses and were considering a single-family home. Just a week before she left, we went to her bank to meet with advisors.

Everything seemed fine.

My chest tightened and my head throbbed. As I pulled up to Summer’s home, I exhaled. I planned to tell Summer about the conversation, but I didn’t want her to sense a problem before I was ready. My first instinct was to call Robyn, but I knew she was tied up with her soft opening.

After a beat of silence, I got out of the car and headed toward the front door. I pressed the doorbell and waited for an answer. Summer beamed while pulling me inside.

“Nadir, you’re the best. I love you so much.” Summer took the bag and waddled toward the kitchen

I followed her, taking a second view of the pictures in their entryway. The gallery wall was an equal mix of pictures of their families. I paused when I spotted our high school graduation picture. My heart twisted as I stared at us with our fathers. They stood between me and Summer holding our diplomas. Their smiles emulated the pride they felt. Summer and I were just as happy, leaning in close to them. Life was crazy. Who knew I’d lose my dad a few years later and that Mr. Jones wouldn’t be here to see his baby girl’s firstborn. I shook my head and continued to the kitchen.

“They gave me extra hash browns,” Summer gushed while unloading the bag at the counter. “Thanks again. I would've gone myself, but I’ve been so tired lately.”

I chuckled. “I wonder why?”

She rolled her eyes then bit into a strip of bacon. “So, what have you got planned today?”

Taking a seat next to her, I shrugged. “Shit. Figured I’d kick it with you.”

“Really?” The excitement in her voice made me smile.

“Yup. Ry said there was some nursery stuff you wanted done?”

Her eyes lit up. “Yes. I bought artwork and wall decals for his room. I want to switch his dresser and crib around and I ordered a new light fixture that should arrive today. If it comes in time, can you install it?”

“I got you. How’s my little guy doing?” I asked while rubbing her stomach. A thump against my palm made me smile.

Summer inhaled then rolled her shoulders. “He’s doing good.”

I rubbed her shoulder. “And you?”

“I'm okay. Just tired and achy. My doctor wants me to spend more time resting, whatever that means.”

“I think it means spending evenings off your feet and not running around a lounge.”

Summer cut into her pancakes, ignoring my pointed stare.

“And I’m closing my books two weeks before my due date.”

“Good idea.”

“I know. It’s just... my life is about to change. I want to enjoy this normal for as long as I can. Who knows when I’ll come back to Ray’s or if my regular clients will find a new go-to stylist while I'm on leave.”

My eyebrows met as I watched her fight back tears. I didn’t know what to say because everything I wanted to say sounded wrong. She needed more than a “it’ll be okay” and “don’t worry about work.” As someone who found joy in running a business, I could only imagine the uncertainty she felt right now.

“You will always have a place at Ray’s. Whatever work you can manage from home, do it. I won’t stop you. When you’re ready to come back at night, we’ll figure it out.”

Summer’s role at Ray’s was vital. She kept the books in order, making meetings with our accountants a breeze. She created systems that improved our workflow. The staff loved her and confided in her. When they couldn’t get through to me, she was their advocate. Ray’s wouldn’t be what it was without her.

“You’re saying that now. But after a month of not having to hear my nagging, you might reconsider.”

I shook my head. “Don’t give me any ideas.”

She pushed my shoulder. “You could never keep me away from that place.”