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“Mads—”
“—No. Please, don’t make this all about me. Remember, I know what’s going on up here.” I tap my finger gently to his head.
He smiles then lightly kisses my forehead. I know he’ll be worrying like I am. He knew something was coming—a change of sorts. His lips stay close to my head as he speaks. “Babe, I’ll be fine. There’s nothing I can do except be there when you need me. Just like always.”
“I know,” I whisper, completely understanding that he’s helpless in this situation. “Just don’t bury it. Don’t tell me you’re okay when secretly, you’re probably standing at the edge.”
When we look at one another, we both know that’s exactly where he is.
Rubbing his face with his hand, he lifts his arm from around me, leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees. He brushes his hands through his hair as he exhales.
The world sits on his shoulders, yet he’s no longer alone. I can share the load where others can’t. I watch him, grateful that he’s about to talk about whatever he’s thinking.
“When I met you,” he says, “it didn’t matter how close to the edge my demons dragged me.” My arm curls around him, and he looks at the gesture, his lip pulling in one corner as he half smiles. “I knew you’d be my parachute. I knew that no matter how hard they pushed, or how great the fall would be, you’d be the one tosave me.” Turning his head, he looks back to me, his hands linked together in front of him. “Mads I…” He trails off.
“Hey,” I whisper, leaning forward, pushing the palm of my hand to his chest.
He turns his body to me, and I feel his heart suddenly racing under my touch.
“We’re in this together, okay?” I feel my eyes swell as our gazes lock.
“I know, I just… I want you to know that, as long as you keep loving me and accepting my life, I’ll keep fighting for it.” Green eyes dance between mine.
“Dean,” my voice all but cracks.
He pulls me in close again. “We will get through all of this,” he whispers into my hair.
I can’t help but wonder if he’s strictly talking about the baby or implying something more to do with the club? Just when I think he’s going to say more, a nurse calls my name to go through.
Dean stands and holds out his hand for me.
He’s here, and no matter what happens next, no matter where we’re taken, I have to trust that we’ll get through.
Chapter Seven
MADISON
Pre-eclampsia was confirmed four days later. That was two weeks ago. I’ve been told it affects about five percent of pregnant women, and if left untreated, can be life threatening. I’ve definitely had more abdominal pain, and I’m very aware that my fingers appear more swollen than normal.
The doctor explained the causes and what I can do to help, but short-term, it appears that getting enough rest and exercising regularly will help the most.
Parking my car, I hear my phone ping from my bag.
VP: Sorry I was gone early this morning, babe. Went straight to the clubhouse after my run. Not sure what time I’ll be home, but I’ll message you later. Text me if you need me x
It’s been hard not to let my mind race with everything that could go wrong. So far, I’ve managed to keep a positive frame of mind because together, Dean and I have remained strong.
He checks in at least twice a day to make sure me and his ‘baby girl’ are okay. I love how sure he is that it’s a girl, to the point I’ve questioned whether he’s secretly checked the tiny piece of paper still in his wallet. I still don’tneedto know, but he won’t let me near it. He keeps that and the pictures on him at all times.
The thought that I gave him that happiness makes me smile.
Happiness or not though, the increased calls and more frequent late nights haven’t gone unnoticed, plus his comment in the hospital. I know something’s happening with the club. He hasn’t told me anything yet, and I won’t ask because I don’t want to add to his stress, but something’s up. Whatever business they’re getting into, it’s no doubt dangerous. I just hope he keeps talking to me.
I put my phone back in my bag and climb out of the car. The pain around my ribs doesn’t go unnoticed as I close the door behind me. Standing straight, I hold my bump. Deep breath.
I walk up to the offices in the school and open my email once sat at my desk.
“Tea?” Eva shouts from down the hall.
