Page 271 of Wild Card

“What kind of experience?” My damn cracking voice betrays me.

Harley quirks an eyebrow. “Really? That’s how you want to play this?”

“Play what?”

“Willow, we haven’t known each other long, but you’re one of us. You’re safe,” Rowan says kindly.

Jewls’ head snaps to her. “She’s safe? Really, Hollywood?”

“What? I want her to feel comfortable.”

“For God’s sake, this isn’t an intervention. She’s having a baby, not a breakdown.”

And there it is… reflexively, my hand goes to my stomach and a loud squeak escapes.

Grandma snorts and I shoot her a dirty look before clearing my throat and sitting taller. “Why would you think that?”

“We have a little experience in this area.” Ember’s gaze goes to my hand.

“You are skin and bones,” Jewls points out.

“I was stressed these last few weeks,” I defend a little too forcefully

“Yes, but your boobs are huge,” she counters. “And your skin is glowing. Your hair is different, too.”

“Perfect pregnancy hair, I miss it,” Harley agrees.

“I don’t have any familiarity in the particulars, but I’m an excellent observer. You turned green when I offered you barbeque chips, you teared up during your dress fitting, and you keep sneaking glances at Mav with such emotion it even touches my dark heart.” Shayla crosses her arms, waiting for my excuses.

“Barbeque chips are gross, wedding dress fittings are monumental experiences, and I love babies!”

Grandma full-out cackles this time. “Give up the ghost, girlie. You are a shit liar.”

I deflate, knowing she’s correct. I am a shit liar.

“I’m pregnant,” I confirm lowly. “Eleven weeks.”

The room erupts in cheers and I’m immersed in a mass of bodies, hugging and squealing.

Wolf and Mack join in, barking excitedly.

When they release me, Rowan has tears in her eyes. “I’m so happy for you!”

Something in her tone is off, and I’m not the only one who notices.

Jewls turns to her. “Okay, Hollywood, now it’s your turn.”

Rowan pales, her jaw dropping. “W-w-what?”

“We’ve been talking about Willow for a week and you didn’t think we’d notice the changes in you?”

“There are no changes!” She looks around and sinks back into the sofa. “This is all Ford’s fault!”

“Ummm, I’d normally agree, but it takes two,” Harley says gingerly.

“Yes, but I tried to reason with him. His new job, completing the house, my growing business—we needed to wait. But he disagreed, and he can be very persuasive.”

We all share a sigh of understanding. These guys aren’t just persuasive, they are unwavering.