Page 98 of Born to Scar

“Can you tell people yet?”

She nods. “I’m out of the first trimester, so it’s about time anyway.”

“Well, let’s go.” I pull at her to follow.

“Now?”

“Yeah, now. What better time?” This is the first baby in our group, and it feels fitting. New life. New beginnings.

It was confirmed through an invasive and painful exam that I can’t have babies. It doesn’t seem to bother Jay or Cam, but it bothers me. I never wanted kids, but I also never loved anyone as I love them. I thought I would be able to change my mind if I wanted to, if they wanted to. But just like Jenny, he took that from me, too.

“Lain and Kia have some exciting news, since we have everyone here,” I yell over the chatter, silencing the bar.

“Well, I was going to let it roll until people started to notice. But Indy noticed before there was anything to notice. I’m pregnant.” Her radiant smile illuminates the room. “So, that’s why Kia’s been an ass to everyone.”

Laughter fills the air around the bar. Mik slams his fist on the bar three times. Everyone else does the same.

“Fuck yeah, Kia,” Jared yells over the slamming fists.

My gaze finds his. He smirks, shooting me a wink.

EPILOGUE

ONE YEAR LATER

JARED

“Hey, Dad.”

“Jared?” His voice cracks, saying my name. There’s so much hope there.

“Yeah. It’s me.”

“I’ve missed you, buddy.”

“I’ve, uh, missed you too. That’s why I’m calling. I’d like to see you, if that’s okay?” I rush through my words as the question ends in a whisper.

He’s quiet for a moment, but it’s screaming so loudly at me. I’ve taken too long. He’s done with me. I should’ve known this is how it would end up. I can’t believe I thought this was a good idea⁠—

“Of course, that’s okay. I would love that. I’ve, uh, moved since the last time we spoke. So, if you wanted to come here, I could make us dinner.” I snort a laugh. “Yeah, okay. Order us dinner,” he corrects.

“You still haven’t learned to cook?” I tease.

“It’s been…a work in progress.”

“Why don’t you come to my house? I want you to meet my family.” He’s quiet again, for longer than before.

“You have a family?” He sounds sad, like he’s missed something big.

“Yeah, but it’s not like that, not yet anyway. There are plans, but we have to figure some things out first. You’ll understand more once you meet…uh, them.”

“I can’t wait to meet them.” There’s no judgment, shock, fear, or anything other than excitement in his voice. Maybe this will be good. Better than good.

“I’m so excited! I can’t wait to meet him!” Indy exclaims.

She’s already said she’s ready to hug the man who saved me. Or as she actually put it: “from that awful bitch.” She’s been planning this dinner all week, steak and shrimp scampi with homemade noodles.

“Are you sure you want me here?” Mik asks.