Page 54 of Fall Love

I keep her hand in mine and set them on her thigh, continuing to drive us deeper into the woods.

Eventually, we pass underneath a stone bridge. An ancient-looking overpass.

“I’ve always loved this bridge,” Neve whispers as we slip beneath the arched stonework. “It makes me feel like I’m entering another realm.”

I chuckle, softly. If only life worked that way. I’d turn back time and find her sooner.

But I’d never change that she’s having our baby.

CHAPTER 19

[Tate]

When we finally reach our destination, Neve swivels in her seat. Shock on her face, awe in her voice.

“A classic car show.”

“I know some people like to shop for antiques. Figured you’d like to check out old cars.”

For a moment, she just looks at me. Not suspicious. Not teasing. Just still. Focused. Then her expression shifts, small, but real.

Her gaze softens as does her voice. “Did you plan this for me?” The question is full of wonder yet confusion. Like she isn’t used to people thinking of her, surprising her with something just to please her. Then her eyes slowly narrow, her smirk turns playful and teasing. “Do you like to shop for antiques?”

“I’m more of a contemporary guy.” I laugh as I press open my door. I round the car for her side, and when I help her out of the new SUV, I keep her hand in mine, linking our fingers together.

Neve doesn’t pull away until she nears the first car, getting all excited by the open hood. Letting her do her thing, I stand back while she inspects the engine. I recognize car emblems, but I don’t know half as much as Neve does. And I don’t need to know more. This is about her.

I follow at her pace as she goes from one classic vehicle to another. She talks to owners and dealers and other enthusiasts, checking on me every once in a while to find I’m still behind her.

“You’re bored,” she says at one point.

“I am absolutely not bored.” I’m loving watching her talk shop. She’s in an element, and I’m just basking in the glow coming off her.

The show isn’t particularly large. Maybe a dozen cars or so. Eventually, she has seen them all.

“Lunchtime yet?” I ask.

“Absolutely. I’m starving.” She rubs her hand over her baby bump.

“Then let’s get you something to eat.” I slip my arm over her shoulder, leading her back to the SUV.

We’re far enough from Lovewell Landing that I take her to another place I know.

The Sand Bar is a little shack on the coast, overlooking the water.

“I can’t have oysters,” Neve states.

“I know, but they have the best lobster roll. Unless the smell of seafood makes you nauseous.”

Neve rolls her head on the headrest. “I’m a Mainer, through and through. Seafood runs in my bloodstream.”

With that, we head into the café. Red vinyl checkerboard tablecloths cover picnic tables with bench seats. I help Neve onto a bench before we place our orders using the QR code on the menu. Drinks are self-serve, straight out of an upright cooler, so I grab Neve a lemonade and a Sprite for myself.

“You can have a beer,” she says, her East Coast accent popping out.

“I’m good.” I’m showing her my solidarity. “How are you feeling?”

Neve tells me more about the pregnancy. How full she feels. Little Wrench’s feet in her ribs. She’s struggling to sleep at night.