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“I swear I’m fine. I’ll cook something for tonight if you can get away and come back.”
“I’ll be there. I’ll text you when I’m on my way. I have to go.”
“Ok. Thanks again for always being here for me.” I end the call.
“What kind of trouble is she having? Why didn’t you tell me you had a girlfriend?” He asks, taking a few steps back. His shoulders are now relaxed.
“We haven’t been together long enough to meet the family. The drama isn’t anything I can’t handle.”
“I’m here for you if you need anything.”
“I know.”
This lie is going to cost me. I’ve never lied to Viktor before Ava. I’ve never kept anything from him. But just like him, I feel a sense of responsibility to protect Ava and my nephew. I can’t explain it. There is something about her that brings out the protector in me. I’m not in love with her. It is something else entirely. What started as my vow to my brother has turned into a brother protecting his sister. Insane, considering we aren’t related, and she isn’t from the clan. But at the end of the day, it is not about blood or the clan. Me protecting her is about doing the right thing. She needs me more than me telling Viktor the truth. Because Ava is right. I’m not sure she would be any safer if Viktor learned I am helping Ava to keep a secret that can change everything as we know it.
Chapter Twenty Six
Ava
I’m laying in bed, super uncomfortable, thinking about life. It doesn’t matter what position I lay; I can’t sleep. The clock reads midnight. Despite the fact I am exhausted, it doesn't seem to matter. I find myself wanting a thick chocolate milkshake and fries from the diner. I lay there, contemplating what to do. I can’t really get dressed and get it myself without someone freaking out. Oliver would probably kill me and I don’t want to bother Marco if he is not on duty tonight. I debate about my options. As I think about options, the craving gets stronger. It’s annoying me.
“Listen here, little cabbage of mine. It’s late. You don’t need the sugar.” I say to the belly as I rub it. But it only encourages him and he starts moving.“Fine. I guess we will have to call your uncle after all. He did say I could call him for anything. This will be fun.”
I get up and walk over to my phone. I feel bad when I look at the time again. He is probably sleeping. But he said I could call him at any time if I needed something. No time like the present to test it. I dial. He answers on the fourth ring. There is music in the background.
“Hey, you ok?” There is panic in his voice.
“Hi Oliver, take a breath.” I can’t help laughing.“I need a small flavor. Of course, you can say no.”
“Anything.” His voice is calmer.
“Where are you? It’s loud.”
“Sorry. Gotham.”
“Oh, if you are busy, don’t worry.”
“I’m not. What do you need?”
“Here is the thing. Your nephew has given me cravings. I didn’t think it would be a good idea for me to get it at this time of night without you getting mad.” He chuckles.
“What does he want?” I hear the humor in his voice.
“Thick chocolate milkshake and fries from the diner.”
“Of course you do. I’m glad you didn’t go. Thank you for calling. I’ll call you when I’m close.” He says, laughing.
“Thanks.”
“You’re welcome. See you soon.”
“Ok.” I end the call, excited about the food to come. These days that’s about the only thing that makes me happy.
?
I can’t believe how quickly time passes. I’m in my third trimester, and it feels like it was just yesterday I was taking a pregnancy test. I’m excited but nervous. I don’t have anyone to teach me how to be a good mother, but I’m going to try my very best. I can do this. I look at the weather to figure out what to wear. I am supposed to meet Max for lunch. He has been bugging me for a week. We have been hanging out more. I find I like hanging out with him. Between him and Lisa my life feels normal.
“Ava, Max is here,” Lisa yells.
