Total pages in book: 122
Estimated words: 116031 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 580(@200wpm)___ 464(@250wpm)___ 387(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 116031 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 580(@200wpm)___ 464(@250wpm)___ 387(@300wpm)
Laird and Tommy approach her from behind, carrying steaming cups of coffee.
Smiling awkwardly between us, I realize what is about to happen too late to stop it. The nurse says, “I was referring to Mrs. Faris, the patient’s wife.”
Pins dropping come to mind when everyone turns to stare at me. “Thank you,” I say, my tone trembling.
The awkward tension couldn’t be thicker. She slips out of the room like she’s escaping. As soon as the door closes, nothing changes. We stand there in silence.
Laird comes to stand behind Nikki, fortifying their twin powers together. Although I want to laugh at my inside joke, I can’t. They aren’t doing a them-against-me thing. They also couldn’t be nicer, more supportive, or more welcoming. But standing here, I understand how Shane could feel like a third wheel.
Tommy sets his coffee down on the table and pulls his phone out like he’s ready to call the police. “Are you and Shane married?”
The question doesn’t throw me into a panic, and I’m not made to feel intimidated in any way. I also know this probably wasn’t how Shane wanted them to find out either. I won’t lie, and I can’t avoid a direct question. “We are married.”
The words feel strange, not in a bad way, but in a getting-to-know-you way. I’m sure one day they’ll roll off my tongue without a second thought.
I’m smiling to myself when I look up to find their mouths open. Nikki asks, “Do his parents know? Do yours?”
The question doesn’t sting as much as it would have not too long ago. Because of Shane, I’m healing. “No. No one does, except the people in this room.”
“And you shared the news with us first?”
“Shane loves you, but he also trusts you.”
I’m not sure what tips her over, but red blotches cover her chest and throat when tears fill her eyes. “Cate, oh my God.” She throws her arms around, hugging me so tight. “Welcome to the family.”
Maybe it’s the words or the sentiment, the baby news, or that I’ve just admitted I’m married to Shane Faris—not because of a mistake but because I love him and want to be. I finally let myself cry all the joy I’ve been holding inside since I got the test results back. Dropping my head to her shoulder, I embrace her. Now that they know one of our secrets, I can’t wait to share the other news.
Laird nudges Nikki, and says, “Welcome to the family, Cate.” It’s a hug fest all around. I hug him and then Tommy because I can see the sincerity in their demeanors. Shane would want them to know, and the support has replaced any awkward tension.
“Oops, I lied. Accidentally,” I say, realizing someone outside the room knows. “My best friend Luna knows because I told her when I found out Shane and I were married.” My head wobbles as I explain, “This was before Shane knew, though, and before we were dating. It was when we still thought it was a mistake. Not for real, like it is now.”
I spoke too soon or said too much because their eyes have widened as they stare at me rambling. Laird asks, “How did Shane not know you were married?”
“Well—”
“Hello, folks.” The doctor walks in and looks around the room. “I have to say it’s quite the honor to meet you.” The comment doesn’t seem to faze them as much as mine did. “And to operate on the great Shane Faris.”
“How is he?” I ask, my feet glued to the spot where I stand, too nervous to crowd the family out.
“Great. He did well and is in recovery.” Turning to me, he says, “When you get back to Los Angeles, he’ll need to get in with a local doctor regarding follow-ups, physical therapy, and recuperation.”
“We have someone we’re working with,” I say. The others redirect their attention to me. “He already has an appointment set up for next week.”
“Great. Get with the nurses, and we can get the files sent over.” He rocks back on his heels, smiling and looking relaxed. That’s a good thing. That means the surgery was a success, so I’ll take that reaction. “This isn’t a surgery we normally require an overnight stay for unless you think it might be best. Otherwise, he’ll be ready for discharge in the next two hours.”
Tommy says, “Thanks, Doc.” His eyes go to the twins. “If we can leave by three a.m., we’ll have a better chance of getting out undetected and can have him in his own bed by seven. I’ll call to get the plane ready.”
Nikki says, “Thank you, Doctor. We appreciate you taking care of him.”
“My pleasure.” He holds out a clipboard. “Do you mind signing an autograph for my daughter? She’s a huge fan of yours.”
“Not at all. What’s her name?”