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Reticent

Page 68

by Tia Sirrah

“I’m looking forward to it.” Up to this point, Hunter and I haven’t let anyone else into our bubble. But with the short time we have until Liam is born, it’s time to expand our village.

“I guess it’s time I share you with my friends.”

My lips curl at the corners. “You can’t keep me hidden away forever.”

“They’re going to love you.” His thumb grazes my ankle. That small touch lights me up. We haven’t talked about our kiss last night. He left for work shortly after dropping me off and unloading my boxes. This is the first time we’ve seen each other since then.

“I think I’m all set.” I shift my leg until it’s out of his hold and turn so my legs are entirely in the car.

“I need to grab my wallet, and we’ll head out.”

“I’ll be here,” I say softly to his retreating back.

* * *

When Hunter and I arrive, about a quarter of our guests are there, and more are trickling in every minute. Skylar’s hosting our baby shower at her father’s art gallery. It’s chic and edgy, with its dark floors and eclectic pieces of art adorning its exposed brick walls. The baby shower decorations blend in well without overpowering the integrity of the space. She’s truly outdone herself.

I hug her. “It’s perfect, Sky-Sky.”

She gives me a wide smile. “Thank you for not going into labor before today. I know we cut things close.”

“Four more weeks to go,” Hunter says.

“So any day now,” Skylar says.

“Don’t jinx it,” I say, a twinge of anxiety tightening my shoulders. “As much as I can’t wait to meet Liam, there’s still so much to do. I’m going to need him to stay put until his due date.”

Hunter looks around. “Did the food make it okay?”

Skylar glances toward the kitchen area. “It did. It should be out any minute now.”

Hunter gestures. “I should go check things out.”

I stop him before he does by taking his arm. “I’m sure they have everything under control. We should mingle with our guests first.”

Hunter rubs my back. “You’re right.”

“And when you guys have a moment, I’ll have Dru take some pictures before we start the games. And I promise the games won’t suck.”

“Dru?” Hunter asks, cocking a brow at me.

“Uh-huh,” Skylar says, distracted by something or someone behind us. “The violinist just arrived.”

“Go. Do your thing,” I urge her.

She gives me another quick hug before leaving us.

Hunter turns to me. “You hired Dru?”

“I recommended him. He’s a great photographer.”

“I wish you hadn’t.” Careful irritation is what his tone conveys.

I frown. “Why not?”

“Because he wants you.” He’s reaching with that assumption.

“How do you even know that? You’ve met him once.”