Page 108 of One Reckless Night

“I haven’t talked to Michael in months,” I said.

“Call him,” Shawn said. “Call your brother. He’s your family. He should know he’s got a nephew on the way.”

I hesitated, then nodded. “Yeah. Maybe I will.”

Shawn clapped me on the shoulder again, then stood up. “Good. I’ve got to get back to Neuro. Let me know if you need anything. I’ll stop by and see Amelia before I head back. Do you know how long she’s going to be here?”

“The doctor thought she’d be going home today, but her labs are still not where they should be. They’ll keep her for at least another day.”

He nodded. “But she’s going to be okay.”

“Yes,” I said. “Baby’s strong. Measuring right. No more bleeding, but she’s still high-risk.”

“She’s not the first high-risk pregnancy,” he said. “It’s going to be fine. I know it.”

“Thanks.”

I sat there for a while after he left, staring at my phone. Finally, I dialed Michael’s number, my heart pounding. It went to voicemail, and I almost hung up, but then I heard the voices of my nieces on the recording, giggling and shouting, “Leave a message for Daddy!”

I smiled despite myself. I missed them. I hated that I hadn’t seen them in months. When the beep sounded, I took a deep breath.

“Hey, Michael. It’s Jared. I, uh… I know it’s been a while. But I could use some help. If you’ve got the time, give me a call back. Thanks.”

I hung up, my hands trembling. It was the first time I’d ever admitted out loud that I needed help. And as scary as it was, it also felt like a weight had been lifted.