Page 170 of Huckleberry Hill
I stole a hand across my belly. “I didn’t think this was possible. If I thought it was, you know we would’ve used a condom.”
“Well, we’ve failed to use condoms every time so far,” he said. “I’ve never been so happy to be a failure at something.”
“You’re really not mad?”
“Why would I be mad?”
“Because you and I—we just—and infertility—and?—”
“Hey, it’s okay. You may have been infertile, but now you’re not.”
I sighed in relief. “A baby.”
He smiled. “A baby.”
The door to my room opened and Dr. Novak returned, only this time she brought my father. His boots were muddy, and he was still in his rain gear and his expression immediately softened when he saw me.
Dr. Novak quietly saw herself out and closed the door behind her.
“You’re okay,” he said, immediately coming to my bedside. “I’d hug you, but I’m wet.”
“Hug me,” I instructed. “But gently. My side is really sore.”
He enveloped me in his arms, and I pressed my head to his rain jacket lapel and closed my eyes.
Dad pulled back and released me. “So, what did the doctor say? She didn’t tell me anything. Only that you were healthy and your injuries will heal, but she wanted to keep you for a few hours for observation. Why would she want to keep you for a few hours if you’re okay?”
Declan rose from his chair. “Take my seat.”
“I don’t want to sit,” Dad said.
“You should probably sit,” I urged.
Dad looked between me and Declan. “What’s going on?”
“You should really sit,” I said. “Please?”
“Okay.” He shrugged and took Declan’s chair. “Now tell me what’s going on.”
I reached for Declan and he took my hand, bringing it to his lips.
“Hadley?” Dad pressed.
I gave him a nervous smile. “Congrats, Dad. You’re going to be a grandpa.”
Chapter Thirty-Nine
The Hospital
* * *
“Dad?” I asked. “Did you hear me?”
“I heard you,” he said, his brow wrinkling. “But how is that possible? I thought you couldn’t . . .”
“Well, apparently I can.” I glanced at Declan. “Declan and I are going to have a baby.”
Dad looked at Declan but didn’t say anything.
