Page 30 of With Every Breath

“I’ll get everything set up as we discussed, and I look forward to seeing you and your husband next week.” He held out his hand for us to shake, and handed me the bag of food he’d packed up for us.

“Perfect. Thank you.” I took the bag, and we headed back out to Madi’s car.

When we reached the florist shop, I did exactly what I said I’d do. Madi picked the flowers, and I signed for them. She’d found some jewel-toned roses that she claimed would be perfect, so I agreed. I kinda just wanted to go back to the condo and snuggle up on the couch with Dex. My relaxing day off had turned out rather not so relaxing.

“Can we be done now?” I begged as we pulled away from the flower shop.

“I think we are done. All you have to do is pick up your dress when it’s ready, and show up. How many people said they were coming?” She turned into the parking lot of our condo.

“With my parents and their friends, we’re at around two fifty.” I sighed. “It’ll be a decent sized crowd.”

“It’ll be nice,” Madi assured me as she turned off the engine. “Now tell me what’s really bothering you.”

“Nothing.” I turned away. I was a terrible liar, and Madi could read me like a book.

“Don’t tell me nothing. You have that look, so spill.”

“We want kids, and I don’t know if I can have them.” I chewed my lip. “I mean, it’s possible, but the chemo could have messed me up pretty bad.”

“Have you talked to your doctor about this?” Madi’s voice lowered, and she placed her hand on my knee.

“Yeah, and she recommended a specialist. It’s just, I’ve been seeing specialists for one thing or another all my life. I want to do this for us, for him, without needing special treatment.”

“Needing extra help doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you. Lots of women need help with this.” She leaned into my side. “You’re not broken, Bay.”

“I know. I told Dex this morning that I want us to try on our own for a bit. He said he was fine with it, but I could tell he was disappointed. I just want to give him a son.” My voice shook as I attempted to rein in my emotions.

“Dex loves you, and he’s the most patient person I know. Look at how long he waited just to date you. He loves you more than anything, Bay. He’ll do it your way because of that.” She laughed lightly.

“But what if we can’t do it on our own?” I rested my head on top of hers.

“Then you’ll get help. I know you, and I know you don’t give up. I’ve seen the fight in you. You’ll be a mom someday, and while you’re waiting… you can have a lot of fun.” She snickered.

“Oh, we already are.” I joined in her laughter and in that moment, the tension disappeared. “Hey, Mads?” I lifted my head. “I’m glad you’re my best friend.”

“Good, because you’re stuck with me. Now, go feed your man all those leftovers, and work on that baby.” She gave me a stern look, causing us both to burst into laughter.

“Yes ma’am.” I saluted her as I climbed out of the car, all worry melted away.

Chapter 14

Bailey

“So what did you end up deciding on?” Dex shoveled another bite of potatoes into his mouth. He’d just walked in a few minutes after me, and I’d handed over the leftovers from our tasting.

“Does it really matter?” I laughed. “You seem to like all the choices.”

“I need energy. Someone has been insatiable lately.” He glanced up as he pulled the box with the steak closer. “Protein. I need protein.” He sighed.

“I haven’t been that bad, have I?” I grinned and bit my lip innocently. “It’s been fun.” I scooted closer, and placed my palm on his thigh. “I thought you enjoyed this side of me,” I whispered in his ear, letting my breath tickle the hairs.

“I do.” He swallowed and coughed at the same time. “You’re just wearing me out.” He turned and kissed me lightly. “Let me finish this, and I’ll take care of whatever you have brewing.” He winked as he blindly stabbed at a bite of steak.

“I guess I’ll get ready for bed.” I stood, and reached for the hem of my shirt. “Won’t need this.” I lifted it over my head and tossed it to the floor before walking around the table. When I reached the hall, I kicked my shoes off. Before stepping out of sight, I shoved my shorts over my hips, kicking them in Dex’s direction.

“This isn’t fair.” Dex groaned.

“I don’t play fair,” I called out as I slipped out of view. I unsnapped my bra, and held out my arm, dangling the garment from my fingertips. “Too bad you can’t help with this.” I jiggled it, hoping he was watching before letting it join the other items on the floor.

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