Page 72 of Second Goal

“I am. Happier than I’ve ever been. And it’s terrifying. I keep expecting something bad to happen. But then I look at you, and I know everything is going to be fine.”

“I love you.” I stroke her cheek. “And I’m not the only one. You have a family now.”

Kiley glances over at the large house and takes in a deep breath. “Do we really have to tell them today?”

“Yes,” I tell her, kissing her before getting out of the car.

Because today is about new beginnings. About creating something that can’t be broken. It’s about celebrating her life. A life that for one paralyzing moment, I thought I’d lost.

“I’d much rather spend my birthday in bed,” she says, wrapping her arms around my neck and pressing her body against mine.

I groan, my cock turning to steel at the temptation. “Trust me, sweetheart, tonight I’ll make all your birthday wishes come true,” I say, grinning down at her. “But it’s not fair to keep you all to myself today.”

She frowns, not looking convinced. And I know she thinks Brynne and Kane forgot about her birthday. But in order to pull off what’s waiting for us inside, and keep it a secret, I needed them both to keep their distance this week.

“Today we celebrate not just your birthday, but the life of our child, and our family.”

“Our family?” She blinks up at me.

I grin down at her. “You may not have a ring on your finger yet. But that’s what we are. You. Me.” I place my hand on her stomach. “This baby.”

“Family,” she says softly, and I see the acceptance there.

Pride fills me as I look at her and see my own emotions reflected in her eyes. A love that matches my own. And it gives me the courage to do what I’ve been planning for the last three weeks.

I take her hand and lead her toward the house, toward our own, slightly broken, happily ever after.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Kiley

“Everything will be okay,”Blake says softly against the shell of my ear. “Trust me.”

But the knots in my stomach warn me not to expect a joyful reaction from my brother. I’d thought I’d made some progress with Kane the last couple of months. But both Brynne and he have been awkward with me this past week, avoiding my calls, and being short with me when they have answered.

And today, of all days, I’d thought one of them would have at least sent me a text. I’ve never made a big deal about my birthday, but even if they forgot about it, they knew I was going to see Lucy. I’d hoped that at least Brynne would have called me.

I’m not sure if they’re angry with me, but the last thing I want is to cause any more tension. And I have a feeling that our news will cause just that. No matter how positive Blake seems to be, I’m nervous.

They love you, my heart beats, despite my insecurities. And I know it’s true. But my hormones have made me a giant blob of emotions lately.

When Blake rings the doorbell and no one answers, I say quickly, “See, they’re not here.”

He tugs me to his chest, and chuckles, kissing my temple. “You’re not getting out of this.”

I groan. “All I’ve ever done is disappoint Kane, and I can’t imagine what he’s going to think of me when I tell him I’m knocked up by his best friend.”

“If he’s upset, that’s on him.” Blake smiles down at me, unfazed by my grumbling. “But I think you’ll be surprised by how he’ll react.”

I sigh. “Always an optimist. Why are you so intent on telling him today?”

“Because I’m happy, Kiley.” He holds my gaze. “You’re mine and I want everyone to know it. I know you’re worried about what Kane’s going to think, but this baby isn’t a mistake, it’s a new start. For both of us.”

“I know, but—”

He kisses me, silencing my protest. “Trust me.”

“I do.”

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