Page 56 of Over Time Advantage

I sit down between her and my suitcase on the guest bed at Tanner’s house and rub her back. “I know, sweetie, but it’s time.” I smile hopefully. “And you have so much to look forward to.”

The past month has been crazy, and it has little to do with my burgeoning relationship with Jett, though it’s moving along at a rapid, scary pace. I sneak away at least two nights a week to spend them with him at his house or mine. Because of Pierce and Harper, we’ve rarely left our houses. The reality is, if we go to dinner at a regular Philly restaurant, we’d likely be photographed. We’ve mutually agreed that keeping things lowkey for now is best for all.

It’s more than okay with me to stay in. He has an enormous home theater. Cuddling up with him to watch a movie is more appealing to me than going to a fancy restaurant. He also has a beautiful backyard. Though the pool is closed because it’s winter, he keeps his hot tub open year-round. A glass of good wine and a topless Jett in the hot tub has quickly become my happy place.

It’s cute how excited he gets to tell me all about whatever bottle of wine we’re drinking. I’m afraid to ask how much they cost. I know it’s all high end, but he’s passionate about it, and I’m passionate about him.

And I’m learning a lot about wines. I’ve learned that certain fruits are associated with specific wines. He likes Napa cabs with notes of blackberry, blueberry, and cherries. It adorably frustrates him that I can’t taste the fruits or don’t realize peach, pineapple, and pear flavors belong in white wines, not reds. Of course I mess with him over it all the time.

Our sex life is booming, and the conversation continues to flow effortlessly. Even on the nights we’re not physically together, we’re on the phone for hours talking.

We have a real connection. I know it’s early, but it feels special. I’m doing my best to temper my expectations, but he’s making it hard with all the effort he’s putting in.

He showers me with sexy lingerie and gets off on me modeling it for him. I’ve opened his eyes to a little BDSM, and he’s taken to it like white on rice, always up for anything I want.

He’s responsive and available to me. He’s never once not immediately returned a text I sent him. He calls all the time and is doing everything he can to alleviate my concerns about his job. I couldn’t possibly ask for more from him.

As for the craziness, it turns out Bailey is pregnant. Harper is going to be a big sister. While I’m coming to terms with the fact that I’m not going to be the one to give it to her, I’m happy for her because she’ll finally have a sibling.

We only realized Bailey is pregnant last night, which came as a surprise to everyone, including them. Tanner was already planning to propose to her, but he moved the proposal up to about two seconds after they found out about the pregnancy. Bailey had the wherewithal to look to me for approval before accepting. It was so considerate of her. Of course I gave my blessing. Just another person I know will love my kid unconditionally.

As a family, we sat Harper down and told her about Bailey and Tanner getting married. We decided to hold off on the big sister news until Bailey sees a doctor. The wedding was already going to be a shock to my little girl.

Harper immediately looked to me for a cue on how to respond. I told her how lucky she’s going to be to have a bonus mom like Bailey. Bailey burst into tears at the term. She also begged me to be a bridesmaid in their wedding, which will now take place in just a few weeks.

Harper smiles excitedly. “When are we going dress shopping for the wedding?”

“Soon, baby.” I run my fingers through her hair. “Make sure you help Bails move her stuff into Daddy’s room. She’s doing better, but she’s not all better. She needs your big muscles.”

Technically, tonight should be my night with Harper, but our custody agreement hasn’t exactly been in effect over the past few months. I think the three of them need a night alone together. It’s best for Harper’s adjustment to what will be her new normal. Kam is moving out today too.

Bailey walks into my bedroom and smiles at me. “Do you want to stay for dinner?”

I shake my head. “No, it’s time for me to go. I want you three to have a special night together. Thanks though.”

Her eyes fill with tears as she nods. “Okay.” She pulls me into her arms. “I’ll miss you.”

I let out a laugh as I return her sweet embrace. “I live five minutes away, and I’ll still see you every morning for PT. You’re not getting rid of me that easily.”

She nods again. “I know. Have you thought about Sulley’s offer?”

Sulley was here yesterday. Our two-on-two match was a blast. When it was over, Sulley mentioned the Beavers basketball team needs a trainer and asked if I’d be interested in the job. Harper was standing there and burst with excitement at the prospect.

I told Sulley I’d think about it. I want my daughter to be proud of my job, but this would be a huge career shift for me.

I nod. “I have. I’m not sure Sulley has the authority to make the offer, but if one of Reagan Daulton’s underlings reaches out, I’ll seriously consider making the change.”

Reagan is the team owner, a gorgeous blonde with more brains than money. And she has a lot of money.

She winks. “I have a feeling she’ll call.”

I narrow my eyes at her. “What did you do?”

She shrugs innocently as she bites back a smile. “Who me?”

Reagan owns the Anacondas too. She’s been very helpful to Bailey in her recovery, even having the team cover most of her equipment and therapy needs. I know she and Bailey communicate regularly. I have no doubt Bailey already called her to put in a good word on my behalf.

Tanner knocks on the door and pokes his head inside. “Are we ready?”