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“Did you have fun tonight?” I ask.
“Definitely. I feel like you didn’t have any fun though.”
“Why’s that?”
She looks over at me through the dark cab. “You barely said two sentences tonight. Normally, you’re Chatty Cathy in a group setting.”
I was hoping she wouldn’t notice. I don’t have a good excuse. I can’t fucking say I was too busy having dirty thoughts about her reading the spicy scenes.
“I was a little distracted tonight. I’ve got a lot on my mind.”
“Anything you want to share with me?”
Not unless I want to ruin our friendship. “What do you think about trying to teach London sign language?”
“I think we’d have to learn it first.”
“Smart-ass.” I reach across the bench seat and tickle Kylie. It only makes her laugh harder.
“In all seriousness, I think it’s a great idea. We could learn it together. There are tons of instructional videos out there. Gwen probably has some good recommendations.”
“I’ll text her when we get home.”
“Did Charlie make you want to learn?”
I shrug. “Sort of. I realized that my own understanding of other cultures and languages is sorely lacking, and I’d like to fix that.”
“It would be good. Pine Creek Falls is diverse for a small town, but it’s still small,” Kylie says.
“True. Oh, were you able to find a new OB?”
“Yes! They’re in Caulfield. My appointment is next Thursday.”
“Perfect. I don’t have any clients scheduled that day.” I open the door to my truck, illuminating her frowning face.
“Why would having clients scheduled make a difference?”
“Uh, well, I sort of figured I’d come with you. But I stupidly didn’t ask if that would be okay. I’m sorry, Ladybug.”
“You want to go to my OB appointment with me?”
“Of course I do. It’s a new doctor, and I want you to feel supported. What if they’re an asshole or don’t take your concerns seriously like that one did at the hospital?”
Kylie gapes at me. Then her eyes fill with tears. “Really?”
In a panic, I flip up the middle console and pull Kylie onto my lap. I can’t stand to see her cry, especially knowing I’m the cause. “I don’t have to go with you, Ladybug. If you want privacy, I’d totally understand.”
Her face in my neck muffles her words. “No. I want you to go.”
I start rubbing her back in what I hope are soothing circles. “Okay, then what are the tears for?”
She hiccups. “Because you’re the best man I’ve ever known. I’m so freaking grateful for you, Gray. I don’t know what I would do without you.”
“You’d handle your shit without a misstep, but since I am here, I want to be there for you in any way you’ll let me.”
“You mean it?” She pulls away, tear tracks marring her face.
“With my whole heart.” I cup her cheeks, wiping her tears with my thumbs. Her eyes fall shut as she leans into my hold.
