Page 83 of Solid Ground

I tilt my head. “You’regorgeous. And Josh obviously adores you.”

She grins. “Thank you.”

For a moment she pauses, and I take a sip of my coffee. “What’s the rest of the story?”

Delaney’s brows twitch. “Oh. There were photos of her going into Josh’s trailer. And a story that talked up his new romance. I wanted to trust him so badly, but there was still that uncertainty.”

My throat tightens. I don’t think for a moment that Declan would put our relationship in danger. He loves me and adores our daughter.

Delaney places her hand over mine. “Zoe. He loves you. If you don’t think you can handle it—tell him.”

I chew my bottom lip.

“I let a misunderstanding keep Josh and I apart for six years when all we needed to do was communicate. Don’t let that happen to you and Declan.”

“You’re right.” I run my hand down my cheek. “I’ll talk to him.”

Delaney gives me a small smile. “It’s not an easy life. But I’m always here to talk to, and so are the others. Anytime you need us, we’re here for you.”

I squeeze her arm. “Thank you. I’m so glad for you all.”

Swallowing hard, I then blow out a breath. “It’s just … I thought I knew where my life was headed, and this past year it’s all been turned upside down.”

She nods. “I remember that feeling from when Josh and I got back together. From the media interest to people saying snarky stuff online—it’s a lot to deal with. Plus, you had a baby not that long ago, and said goodbye to your work baby. You’re amazing, Zoe. Don’t ever forget that.”

“Declan and I haven’t had sex since Daisy,” I blurt out. “I just feel so bloated and …”

Her smile spreads. “He still thinks you’re the hottest thing on two legs. None of us miss the way he looks at you.”

“Really?”

She nods. “Like I said. Talk to him. He’s probably waiting on you to give him the green light.”

As if on cue, the baby monitor picks up Daisy’s wail, and I make a move to stand.

Delaney pulls me back down. “I’ll go and get her. You sit and take a break, Mamma. Gotta save that energy if you’re having sex with the delectable Declan later.” Shooting me a wink, she heads upstairs, returning moments later and rocking Daisy in her arms. “She’s so beautiful. My ovaries are aching already.”

I laugh. “Where’s Addison?”

“With her father. Josh is home with me today, but I wanted to check on you because it’s been a few days, and we’re a pretty useless village if we don’t keep in touch.”

I hold out my arms and take an unsettled Daisy from her.After unclipping my bra, I raise my top and put my baby to my breast where she latches on and feeds hungrily.

“I really appreciate everything you’re doing. I’m not sure how I would have coped alone.”

Delaney shakes her head. “Declan would have put everything on hold if you needed it. He spoke to Josh about his schedule to try and make it easier on you. That’s how I know he loves you.”

My heart swells. “He really does.”

She sits on the couch and picks up her coffee. “I’m here whenever you need me. You know that. When she’s old enough, I can even take her for a night to give you two time alone.” I must grimace as she laughs. “I’m not talking any time soon,” she continues.

“Thank you.”

“You’re always welcome.”

Delaney’s visitgave me a lot of food for thought.

I’m ready to have sex with Declan again—I know he’ll be gentle and loving. It’s my own insecurities coming into play and stopping me. And they’re amplified by his return to acting, especially in a role where he’ll have a love scene.

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