Page 72 of The Broken Keys

“There’s nothing wrong with that.” I reach over and rub her thigh. “But when you’re ready, I’m here.”

“Thanks.” She sinks further into the couch.

We sit in silence. The distance between us is like we’re miles away even though we’re only a few feet apart.

My phone buzzes. The grocery delivery is fifteen minutes out.

“I’m gonna put the food away when it gets here.” I place my phone on her coffee table. “You just rest.”

“Okay.”

The documentary switches to a show about penguins. Livianna pulls the blanket tighter around herself.

I need to be here for her and not let the fear of losing her again get in the way, even as my gut twists with the sense that this isn’t just about us.

Whatever she’s fighting feels bigger than trepidation and heavier than doubt. And the way it settles between us tells me one thing I’m not ready to face.

This situation isn’t over. Not by a long shot.

Chapter Fifteen

LIVIANNA/LILY

Now

Triple The Threat & One Extra Thump

There’s no rewind button when living happens in real time.

“Callum?” I sit up. “You don’t have to stay here with me. I’m fine now.”

He gazes at me from the other end of the couch, his expression unreadable. “You passed out on your floor an hour ago.”

“I know, but I’m better. You can go if you need to.”

“I don’t need to go anywhere.” He shifts slightly, settling deeper into the cushions. “Unless you want me to leave.”

“No, I just don’t want you to feel obligated.”

“That’s far from how I feel. I wanna be here.” The sincerity in his voice makes my chest tight.

Upstairs, three pregnancy tests sit on my bathroom counter. Three pieces of plastic that hold answers I’m terrified to read.

And here rests Callum, the man who thinks we’re takingsteps to build a future together, completely unaware that everything could change in the blink of an eye.

My phone buzzes on the coffee table. I reach for it, grateful for the distraction.

Ella:How are you feeling? You sounded sick this morning.

I type back.

Me:Better. Just needed rest. Working from home today has helped.

Another text comes through before I can set the phone down. This one from Marcus Chen’s assistant.

Joanna:Mr. Chen would like to confirm the contract signing for Thursday at two o’clock. Please advise.

Me:Confirmed. Looking forward to it.