Page 47 of Trials of a One Night Stand
I can’t help but smile. “Lottie wants to be a surrogate auntie.”
The keys drop from Nathaniel’s hand and clatter against the wood floor. “Does that mean you’re considering keeping the baby?”
I haven’t told him what I’ve been thinking because it didn’t seem like something to discuss over the phone or via a text. He’s acted supportive, but what I say next might change that. Even though I know I have so many choices, this might be my only shot at motherhood despite advances in science, and I don’t want to look back at my choice with regret. I’ve pushed myself so hard career-wise, but this is a decision I’m making for me—and me alone.
I square my shoulders as if I’m about to cross-examine a hostile witness. “I want to have this baby.”
If I thought his smile earlier was nice, the one that forms on his face blinds me. “Wonderful.”
My pulse stutters. “Really?”
He leaves the keys on the floor, comes closer to me, and takes my hands in his. “This is the best news ever. I’m so happy.”
“You want this baby?”
“More than I knew, but I didn’t want to sway you. I wanted the decision to be yours.”
“So you’re—”
He squeezes my hand and then brushes his lips over mine. “I’m all in.”
My mouth gapes at the same time as my heart slams against my rib cage. I don’t know what to say. I’m happy that the baby will have a father, but what does this mean for Nathaniel and me? Co-parenting or more? Though his unexpected kiss was gentle but nice. I can’t deny the chemistry between us, but we still don’t know each other. Now, our child will connect us, not only for eighteen years but for the rest of our lives.
“Neither of us anticipated this to happen, but we have time to figure it out. And I want to be with you every step of the way if that’s okay.”
Again, not what I imagined him saying. Still, I find myself nodding. I know how hard it was for Steffi to do it all on her own. Her parents both worked, so they couldn’t always be there for appointments. I have Lottie and Trace, but I’m relieved Nathaniel is on board.
“Great.” He lets go of me and snatches the keys. “Make yourself at home.”
I make a decent amount of money, but I’ve only lived in apartments and Colton’s place. They’ve been nice, but not luxurious like this house.
As I scan the room, a large painting of a gorgeous man with blond hair hanging above the fireplace catches my attention. “Is that portrait of one of the men who live here?”
“Roddy.”
Tall, multicolored glass-blown candlestick holders grace the ends of the mantel. I take a closer look at the painting. Roddy’s chiseled cheekbones, full lips, and lush eyelashes are to die for. “He looks like a movie star or model.”
“He’ll love hearing that.” The lines around Nathaniel’s eyes deepen, making him even more handsome. “The portrait was Mano’s anniversary present to Roddy. There’s a bit of a story behind the painting, but we need to get you settled so we can go.”
This is the first I’ve heard of leaving the house. “Go where?”
“Next door for dinner.”
An alarm blares in my head, warning me to stay right where I am. “I’m not sure—”
“It’s good to meet the neighbors.” He doesn’t miss a beat. In fact, his grin has brightened. “You’ll like them.”
“But we’re not supposed to be seen in public.”
“Don’t worry, we’re not eating with just anyone.”
Sorry, but I’m still not convinced. “You know them?”
He nods. “My brother and sister-in-law. Roddy is her best friend.”
“I’ve been wondering about the connection.”
“Wonder no more.” Nathaniel motions to the kitchen and family room combination. “Look around while I get your luggage. We have about thirty minutes before we go over.”
