Page 61 of Torqued

“Oh, shit!” I cover my face, mortally humiliated. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t know. Rush!”

“I forgot.” He shrugs, and we burst with laughter. I’m talking about tears and all.

I hug him close to me. “In his defense, he has been in a few wrecks, y’all.”

The group of family and friends laugh, sharing a light-hearted moment about one of their own. It’s then I realize I’m now one of them too. Why am I worried about having a baby with this man?

Rush is everything to me, and as I look around at the people who love him as much as I do, I know if anything were to never happen, they’d be alright. Rush and our child will be slight if I’m not here to make sure they are.

The day is like a whirlwind of love and laughter, one that I’m happy to be a part of for once. I’ve met a hundred or more people, including the senator. Yeah, Creed’s dad was a senator.

Rush and I spend the night cuddling on the couch watching old B rated movies. Sunday is dinner with his parents, and that evening he takes me to the airport.

“I wish you’d let me drive you back, I hate this airport love junk.” He complains, trudging through the place as miserable as possible.

“What’s airport love?” I giggle, as his brows work like he’s thinking about it.

He shrugs, turning up the corner of his top lip. “Like it’s not permanent or something. Star-crossed lovers or love by night.”

“Well, that’s sounds nasty.” I wrinkle my nose.

He hauls me to him, holding me tightly. “I don’t know if I can let you go.”

“I’m not sure I can go.” I love this man; I need to make this right—all of it for us.

“Flight 355 to Raleigh-RDU International Airport.”

“Ugh, they want you.” He lays his forehead against mine. “Please promise we’ll figure this out, and you’ll never leave me again.”

“Rush, I have a lot to figure out. Give me a little time. I promise I’ll figure it out.” Here, in his arms, surrounded with his love, is the only place I want to be, but there’s so much more to consider.

He releases his breath, pressing his lips to mine. “I love you, Spencer.”

“I love you, Rush.” I return his kiss and pull away. “I’ll text when I get in.”

“I’ll be waiting. I love you.” Rush looks as though he could kick rocks. I look back one time, and he’s still standing there like a lost boy. My heart clenches for this man; I need his love like I need air.

That’s why I have to find a way for this to work and for Rush not to get hurt. Now, how to do it without anyone calling my bluff before I can get the goods on them.

“I need a brilliant plan, and possibly a baby stroller.” My stomach flips, rolling with all of the information. I lay my hand across my belly, praying I can make it home.

“If you’re a kid and not stress, this is going to be a long year.” I breathe in my nose and out of my mouth. Making a mental checklist for tomorrow and everything I need to do.

After a long flight home, only because I’m seriously green. I fall into bed, exhausted and suffering from a migraine. I drag my cell from the nightstand and text my favorite person and possible baby daddy.

Spencer: Home. Tired. Sleep.

Rush: I’m sorry.

Spencer: No apologizes.

Spencer: I had the time of my life.

Rush: I miss you.

Spencer: I miss you.

Rush: Get some rest.