Page 213 of Triplet Babies for my Ex's Best Friend

My eyes sting again because apparently pregnancy comes with the emotional regulation of a haunted sprinkler system.

“I want Ethan,” I admit, so quietly I almost don’t hear myself.

Luci’s face becomes soft and complicated. “I know.”

“I hate that I want him.”

“No, you don’t.”

“No, I don’t.” I close my eyes. “I just hate that wanting him gives him the power to hurt me.”

“Yeah,” she says. “That part sucks.”

“What if I’m second place again?”

“You’re not second place.”

I can hardly breathe. “You don’t know that.”

“I know you.”

“That’s not the same thing.”

“No,” she says firmly. “But I also saw him with you, the way he looks at you.”

Before I can respond, there’s another knock, and Dr. Patel steps in with a soft smile. “Good morning, Adeline. How are you feeling?”

“Like my life got hit by a bus, but physically less nauseous.”

Her smile widens. “That’s something.”

“This is my sister, Luci.”

“Hi,” Luci says, immediately sitting straighter like she’s about to cross-examine her. “I’m emotional support and also quality control.”

Dr. Patel takes that in stride. “Good. We’re ready to take you for the ultrasound. The OB attending will meet us there.”

My entire body goes cold. “Now?”

“If you’re ready.”

Absolutely not.

“Yes,” I say.

Luci stands. “I’m coming.”

Dr. Patel nods. “That’s fine.”

The trip through the hallway feels too long and too short at the same time. I’m wheeled down because hospitals enjoy making people feel like invalids even when they havefunctioning legs. Luci walks beside me with one hand on the rail, her jaw set like she’s escorting royalty into battle.

The ultrasound room is dimmer than my hospital room, which helps until I remember why we’re here. A technician introduces herself as Mara. The OB attending, Dr. Levin, joins us a few minutes later, kind-eyed and professional, with silver-streaked hair and a voice designed to lower blood pressure.

It doesn’t work, but I appreciate the attempt.

They help me get settled. Luci stands near my shoulder and takes my hand.

“Cold gel,” Mara warns.