Page 212 of With Us

“I’m fine,” I assured her, once again holding my arms out. Only this time, a contraction hit. I clutched my stomach, gasping to get back the breath that had been knocked out of me.

“Cazzo, gattina. Sit.”

“I’m okay,” I said, inhaling deeply as it passed. I shifted a little, rubbing a tight spot on the side of my belly.

Just as Lou and Rachelle rushed in, surprisingly followed by Julie, Tina, and Luc, another contraction hit.

“Holy fuck, it’s the Faust thing all over,” Luc said, looking panicked.

“Language,” I gasped, “Uncle Luca!”

Chaos exploded around us, my concerned family meaning well as they fussed over me.

It was everything I’d ever wanted, and everything I’d never dared to dream of.

“Enough!” my husband shouted over everyone. “Dahlia, I don’t care if they aren’t regular. We’re going.”

“Fine, but you owe me. I’m thinking Faust sounds good. Will he do takeout?”

“For you?” Luc asked. “He’d set himself up in the hospital kitchen to cook. Sneak me some.”

“No.” I carefully bent in front of Adelaide, pulling her into my arms.

Big, pale green eyes looked at me. “I big sister?”

“Soon, baby. I love you so much. You’re going to be the best big sister in the world.”

“I know.”

She has her father’s confidence, that’s for sure.

With one last hug, I let her go. Standing, Theo practically dragged me from the room onto the elevator.

I tried to look innocent as I tilted my head and batted my lashes. “Hey, do you think we have time—”

“No.” He shook his head, muttering, “You really are out of your mind.”

“What? I was going to ask if we had time for me to grab a drink. I’m thirsty.”

He arched an eyebrow.

I smirked and shrugged. “It was worth a try.”

Wrapping his arm around me, he kissed my forehead. “I love you, my gattina. Thank you.”

“Don’t thank me until after you hear what I call you during labor. But I love you, too, my Theo.” Letting my husband hold me, I enjoyed the last few moments of quiet I’d likely be experiencing for a while.

Niall was more on edge than any of us, worried and fretting as he rushed us to the hospital. When we got there, he jumped from the SUV and opened the back door. He hovered as I climbed down.

“I’m okay,” I assured him. When I started to turn toward the hospital entrance, I found myself in a gentle hug.

“Good luck,” Niall whispered before releasing me just as quickly.

“Thanks,” I whispered back before once again being rushed by my husband.

However, as another contraction hit, I was grateful for his lack of patience.

The next few hours flew by in a rush. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it when I heard the tiny high-pitched cry.

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