Page 58 of Solid Ground

She squeals when I show her how my bump is growing. I hate that she’s not here and sharing this with me, but at least we can talk via video.

“So, how’s life with the sexy Declan?” Caitlin tilts her head and smiles.

“Amazing.” I sigh.

“I know you. You’re waiting for that bubble to burst, right?”

I hesitate. She’s right. I’m sure I’d be fooling myself if I thought whole thing I have going with Declan would last forever. His past reputation doesn’t support the idea of himsticking around for long—although this is the first time a child’s been involved. “I guess.”

“Whatever happens, I’m here. You know that, right?”

I nod. “I know.”

“So, what are you up to now?”

“Declan’s got a movie premiere tonight. Nothing huge, but I’m going with him.”

Her eyes widen. “Lucky bitch.”

I laugh. “It’s pretty crazy. I only just found out that he has an assistant. He doesn’t do much because Declan does his own thing, but he organised a gown and for my makeup and hair to be done before we go tonight.”

“Exciting!”

“It is. I’m feeling pretty good now—the morning sickness seems to have passed. Until now I’ve been crawling into bed early because I’m so tired. But I’m looking forward to tonight. What are you doing?”

She lets out a big sigh. “Brandon’s at a training camp this weekend, but he’s back on Monday. I hate it when he goes away. Apart from the other players’ wives, I don’t really know anyone here yet.”

“It’ll happen.”

“I missyou.”

“I miss you too.”

“Zoe, are you ready for hair and makeup?” Declan calls from the living room.

“I’ve got to go and become a princess.”

Caitlin laughs. “Have fun. Get loads of photos and send them to me.”

“Will do.” I blow her a kiss and close my laptop.

I’m not used to being fussed over. The only time I’ve ever had my makeup done was when I posed for a headshot for my company website.

By the time I get downstairs, I’m nervous, but Declan greets me with a smile and leads me into the living room.

They’ve taken over my work desk—which I told Declan was the best place to use for this, and set up a mirror against the wall so I can see what’s happening.

“Zoe, this is Tatum and Maxine. They’re here to do your hair and makeup.”

I take a deep breath and sit down before they get to work. Declan takes up a position in a chair so he can watch proceedings.

And when it’s all done, I look at myself in the mirror and smile.

“You look beautiful,” Declan says. “Not that you don’t all the time.”

I laugh. “Thank you for this.”

“I’m enjoying being able to pamper my girl. Go and get your gown on. I’ll be there in a minute to zip you up.”

---