Page 153 of Angel

I read through threads about hormonal shifts, backaches, and pregnancy cravings, including the golden advice to be present for the mother.

With a few ideas churning, I started the engine and drove toward Nashville as my emotions flipped from explosive elation to cold dread.

One second I was flying on the wonder of her carrying my child, and the next I was drowning in worry about Roxy and the baby’s health, resolving never to leave her alone to it.

When I got into Nashville, I stopped by a Trader Joe’s and stocked up on food, going overboard on fresh fruits and vegetables, plus easy meals in case Roxy’s ban on me extended a few weeks.

Heading to a commercial rental lot, I secured a rugged, fully equipped, state-of-the-art camper van.

After swinging by my house for more clothes and supplies, I returned to Leiper’s Fork by sunset, towing the massive trailer behind my Defender.

I parked the rig right at the edge of Roxy’s gravel driveway, where I wouldn’t obscure her car from leaving but would have a full view of her home.

Her windows seemed curtained up, but I spotted a shift in the material as she peeked at me from her sanctuary.

I eased out of my ride and made sure to salute with a hello in her direction as I moved the shopping bags to her portico and knocked.

Walking away, I studied the entrance from my temporary home as she came to the door and stared down at the bounty I left her.

She shook her head, took the food, and flashed an annoyed glance at the RV before disappearing back inside.

I then settled in for the long haul, starting with making a meal for myself.

I pulled a folding table and chairs into the forecourt beside the camper, then began grilling my sausages and buttering my buns for a burger-and-beer dinner.

That’s when the front door opened, and my lips smirked.

I turned my back and stepped into the RV to get a bowl of salad.

Footsteps rattled on the metal stairs, then a fist banged on the open door.

‘Can I help you, beautiful? Hungry?’ I drawled.

I caught a snort of irritation from her as I swiveled around.

Grabbing my beer for a sip, I leaned with casual nonchalance against the aluminum jamb of the rig’s tidy kitchen.

I plastered on a lazy, confident smile even as my eyes raked her with hunger.

I struggled to hide the fact that I was so in love with her, finding it a hardship to breathe just being this close.

She wore a distressed denim jumpsuit and a floral wool sweater, her curves and the growing swell of her tummy filling out the fabric.

She’d never looked sexier, more sensual, and more adorable than she was now.

My cock throbbed as an arc of desire hit with a vengeance.

‘What the hell, Angel? I told you -.’

‘Not going anywhere, Rox,’ I interjected, crossing my arms over my chest. ‘Like I said, I’m here to stay.’

Roxy glared at me, her face flushed with annoyance as she cursed under her breath. ‘Damn you. Seems I can’t stop you.’

I raised the beer in my hand to her and gave her a smirk.

‘I’m a force to be reckoned with, so watch your six, woman. I’m going to win your heart back,’ I rasped.

With a final curse, she spun on her heel, marched straight back to her porch, and slammed the front door shut.