Page 165 of Baby Surprise for my Brother's Best Friend

A beat passes.

I can’t quite speak.

“You deserve it.” He gives my hand a small squeeze. “After everything, you really do.”

He convinces me to get out of the apartment for a bit, just to swing by the office, grab a few things, feel normal again.

We drive in silence, the city blurring past. I watch the familiar skyline shift into unfamiliar streets.

I glance over at him. “This isn’t the way to the office.”

Denver just grins.

I frown. "If you're kidnapping me, I've been there and done that already."

He shakes his head. "Shut up, we're almost here, you goof."

A few turns later, we pull into a quiet gated community. Lush trees. Cobblestone roads. Everything feels too calm, too intentional.

A modern Mediterranean-style house perches on a hill. White stone walls. Warm terracotta roofing.

And standing at the front door, like he’s been waiting there for me forever, is Alessio. I don’t move. Not right away.

After Denver pulls up into the long driveway, I open the car door slowly, the air thick with something I can’t name.

My heart pounds like it’s trying to break free from my chest. I’m not sure if I want to cry, scream, or run into Alessio’s arms.

Denver leans casually over his seat. “Oh, and FYI, did you hear he broke Cash Carson’s nose?”

I whip my head around to stare at my brother. “What?”

He shrugs, far too pleased with himself. “Apparently, Alessio's fist met Carson's face. Guess he’s not great at turning the other cheek when someone disrespects you.”

I turn back toward the house, stunned.

Alessio lifts a hand in greeting, eyes locked on mine.

He’s not just standing in front of a house.

He’s offering me a future.

40

ALESSIO

I’ve never been good at waiting.

But this? This wait nearly breaks me.

I stand at the top of the steps, hands shoved deep in my pockets, watching Sophie step out of the car.

My heart pounds like it did the first time I kissed her, only now, it’s heavier, thick with everything I left unsaid and everything I still need to prove. Weighted with every moment I failed her. Every second I wasn’t there when she needed me. Every word I should’ve said but didn’t.

I wasn’t there to take her home from the hospital, and the guilt of that gnaws at me, consumed every minute I was away. I haven’t slept much over the last few days, worrying about her and the baby.

But the truth is, I needed time. Not to run, but to get it right this time.

I spent the last few days with my father, talking about what it means to do things on my own. To build something that’s mine. I told him I didn’t want his money or his backup. Just his blessing.

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