“Your house is amazing,” I compliment, trying to take it all in.
Paintings that must be worth more than a year’s salary for most people hang on the walls, but Kayla laughs lightly, uncorking the champagne with a loud pop.
“It’s too big,” Kayla remarks with a wink. “I want to fill it with the pitter-patter of tiny feet!”
A warmth spreads through my heart when she takes my hand, guiding me to what must be a lounge, though not one in the way I’ve ever seen.
“And I thoughtyourhouse was big,” I whisper to Blake as he shrugs.
“It’s hard being the only one in it.”
I follow his gaze to his mom, who pats the white leather sofa beside her.
“So, how long have you known?”
Blake answers the questions with ease while I sit back and relax.
“I wish your dad could be here,” Kayla chokes out, sipping her champagne as she pours a glass for Blake. “Sorry, lovely, I’m assuming you don’t want one? Would you like anything else?”
“I’m great, thank you. Blake made me pancakes this morning; I’m still stuffed.” I rub my stomach as her eyes soften.
“How have you been feeling? I was terribly sick with Blake.”
I smile, nodding with empathy. “I wasn’t well at the beginning, but it’s subsided now, thankfully.”
Kayla beams at me with delight. “What about cravings?”
Blake laughs, muttering something under his breath as I roll my eyes at him.
Chicken with onion has become a firm favorite, but the onion has to be raw and cold. So, each time I eat it, my nose and eyes stream, and Blake just watches me like it’s a live horror movie.
“It’s gross, Mom.” Blake wrinkles his nose, his navy eyes sparkling as I elbow him in the ribs. “Grilled chicken with raw onion, sliced thickly.”
Kayla throws her head back, showing her sparkly white teeth as she does. “Oh, Blake, I had your father running to the store regularly for Hot Cheetos and spicy salsa.”
I laugh, sticking my tongue out at Blake, who sits back with defeat.
“I just do what I’m told,” he grumbles with a wink.
“I still can’t believe my baby is having a baby!” Kayla fans herself, her eyes filling up again. “Have you told anyone else? Does Issac know? He’s a daddy already; he’ll give you all the tips!”
Blake says nothing, dropping his gaze to the floor as he nods. Kayla frowns, leaning forward with concern.
“Blake?”
Blake sighs, shaking his head slowly. “Issac and I aren’t speaking right now.”
Kayla blinks, a short laugh leaving her mouth. “What? Why?”
Heat flames on my cheeks, giving me away. But Kayla doesn’t miss it, her eyes widening as she figures it out.
“I see.”
“It’s complicated,” Blake adds quickly, placing a reassuring hand on my knee.
My heart thuds in my chest as Kayla shrugs.
“It’s not my business,” Kayla says, turning her attention back to me. “I have to ask, have you guys found out what sex the baby is?”
