Page 61 of Heartbeats & Highways

Virgil’s brow furrowed at my remark. “Did you just imply that I don’t know how babies are made?”

I couldn’t hold in my giggle.

“She’s teasing me,” Virgil said to his brothers with a grin.

“Yeah, I see that,” Roman added with a laugh.

Homer remained steadfastly stoic.

My smile slipped and I sobered.

“How far along are you?” Roman asked.

“I’m not sure. I think about five weeks. Savage is going to take me to the doctor to find out.”

“Five weeks,” Homer repeated.

I saw them put the puzzle pieces together, their expressions clearing in understanding when they realized the baby wasn’t Savage’s.

“Who’s the father?” Virgil asked.

Homer smacked his head. “Tact.”

“You’retellingmeto have tact? That’s rich.” Virgil rubbed the back of his head.

“You don’t owe us an explanation,” Roman said.

“I kind of do. I mean, I work for you and you guys have been good to me.” I took a deep breath. “I was married to—to not a nice man. He passed away and I got a chance at a fresh start, so I came to Waco. I met Savage. He got me this job. And now I . . .”

The three of them stared at me, shock permeating their faces.

Even Homer. But he was the first one to recover. “You can’t take the bus anymore.”

“I can’t?” I asked.

“No.” He shook his head. “If Savage can’t drive you to and from work while you’re studying to get your license, then you call one of us. We’ll pick you up or drop you off. Whatever.”

“But that’s ridiculous,” I said in exasperation.

“It’s my condition,” Homer growled. “If you want to keep working here, you accept the rides. No exceptions.”

I looked at Homer and bit my lip to stop myself from smiling.

His frown deepened which unfortunately made me break. A laugh escaped my mouth, and I hastily covered my lips with my hand.

“Are you laughing at me?” Homer demanded.

“I’m laughing because I just realized you’re not so scary after all,” I said, laughing again. “You’re a secret softie.”

Roman and Virgil joined in, their laughter ringing throughout the tattoo parlor.

“I agree with Homer. About you not taking the bus,” Roman said after he collected himself.

Virgil nodded in agreement.

“I’ll accept the rides,” I said when my giggles had run their course. “And thank you.”

The handle of the front door turned and then there was a knock after the door failed to open. “Hello? Are you guys open?”

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