Page 40 of Triplet Babies for my Ex's Best Friend

“I’ll do my best,” I say quietly.

Diane smiles, satisfied. “I’m sure you will.”

The elevator dings.

Saved.

“I should…” I gesture vaguely.

“Yes, of course,” she says, stepping back. “Go on. I won’t keep you.”

You already have, Diane.

You absolutely already have.

I step into the elevator, pressing the button for Ethan’s floor with slightly shaky fingers.

As the doors close, I let out a long breath.

“Okay,” I whisper.

This is it. No motel, Bryce, or running. Just a penthouse, a job, a child, a dog, and a man who already knows exactly how badly I can ruin my own life in under twenty-four hours.

The elevator hums upward.

My heart follows.

“Cool,” I murmur. “Totally fine. Completely normal. Nothing to see here.”

The doors slide open.

And just like that, I’m home.

Or at least…

Something like it.

CHAPTER EIGHT

Ethan

By the timethe elevator reaches my floor, I’ve already reminded myself twice that this is a practical decision.

Necessary.

Measured.

Entirely manageable.

None of which changes the fact that when the doors open and I see her standing there with two suitcases, the air seems to shift in a way I don't appreciate.

Addy looks up immediately.

There’s a fraction of a pause. Not enough to be called hesitation, but enough to register. Enough to confirm that I’m not the only one aware of the weight this arrangement carries.

“Hi,” she says.

It’s not the same tone she used in the interview. Less polished and guarded. More… herself.