Page 70 of Vincent
"Much." She placed her head on his chest and simply inhaled his scent.
"I promised David to take him to the batting cage this afternoon."
"I will take him and you sit your pretty butt down and watch us men do our thing."
"That's completely sexist."
"That's me exercising my right as your husband and the father of the baby you're carrying." He tipped her chin up. "And I'm going to be exercising another right."
"Which is?"
"To declare that this workday is over for you."
"But-"
"Ah, perfect timing. Your assistant is back; she can finish up here."
"You're a bully." She pouted.
"And proud of it." He looked up as Mrs. Bennett bustled in and stopped short just inside the doorway.
"I'm sorry to interrupt-"
"No, your timing is wonderful. My wife is knocking off for the day. Can you finish up here?"
"Of course." The woman nodded, shifting the package from one hand to the next. "I've been telling her that it's time for her to take it easy."
"I'll see that she does."
"I'm right here."
Without sparing her a glance, Vincent continued. "While I take her out to the vehicle, will you do me the favor of cutting some slices of the sample cake she made?"
"Gladly, Mr. Vincent. Enough for that adorable son of yours, too."
"Thank you." Before she could protest, he had already scooped her into his arms and was heading out the doorway, to Mrs. Bennett's delight.
"I can walk."
"Be quiet," he murmured, kissing her on the lips to stop any further comment.
*****
"You're worried."
"I'm not worried." He stopped when she paused and took a breath. The doctors had advised her that walking would certainly help. "I'm just concerned. You've been here for the past twelve hours."
"First babies have their own agendas. And they take their time." She stopped again to take a deep breath.
"Another contraction? Think we should go back in?"
"No." She shook her head. "It's not time yet. And my water still hasn't broken."
He was about to say something, but clamped his lips shut. He certainly did not want to appear as if he was worried, even though he bloody well was. He had told his mother and sister to keep David occupied, and he would keep them updated.
When she stopped again and leaned on him, he made a decision.
"Back to bed," he said firmly. "I don't care what the doctors say, you're safer there. I-" The rest died in his throat when she clutched at his arm. "Darling, what is it?"
