Chapter 588
I’m still rattled long after Brook’s visit. I watched her through the window as she stomped to her sleek black Audi and peeled away, driving so fast and so recklessly I half–expected to hear the screech of tires and the crunch of metal a block away.
I hope I don’t come off as a terrible person for saying this, but if that had happened, it would have been for the best. Brook is a terrible person. She takes the whole ‘Mean girl‘ thing to a whole new level.
She was pissed. Furious, even. The same way Noah had been yesterday when I refused to bend to his command.
Had I really been that pathetic before? Otherwise, why would they expect me to bow so easily? Why would they expect me to surrender every time?
The truth is sharp and ugly: they were used to me being submissive, docile and pathetic. And now that I finally dared to push back, it rattled their feathers and pissed them off.
After Brook left, I forced myself to breathe, then fed my sweet girl before making something light for myself, and then took a much–needed nap. Honestly, pregnancy should come with a warning label: permanent exhaustion ahead… because I’m tired all the freaking time and all I want is to curl up and hibernate for the next few months.
I woke up five hours later, feeling refreshed and ready to face the world… And after a snack, I’ve just been lazing around, making the most of my temporary leave, before I have to go back to work next week.
The ringing of my phone pulls my attention from the mafia novel I’m reading. Putting my book down, I grab my phone and swipe the accept button.
“Hi, Lilly,” I say.
She’s been busy, so I haven’t seen her since the day of the surprise visit, though we have talked.
“Hi, bestie!” she chirps, her voice bright and fast. “What time are we meeting?”
I frown. “Meeting?”
“Yes.” She says it with a tone that already tells me I’ve messed up.
“For what?”
“You can’t be serious, Si.” She actually grits her teeth through the line. “Dinner. Saturday dinner. Have you forgotten?”
Right. When we are both free on Saturday, we always go out for dinner, then drinks afterwards. With everything that’s been happening, I totally forgot about our tradition.
“But we didn’t last weekend…” I try weakly.
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Chapter 588
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“That’s because I had to fly to China on Friday,” she snaps. “Our reps butchered a contract we’d been working on for weeks.”
Right. I’d forgotten about that too.
“I don’t really feel like going out,” I admit, sounding more like a sulking child than an adult. “And I don’t feel like driving.”
“You don’t have to drive; I’ll be your chauffeur. I’ll pick you up and drop you off.”
“But-”
“No buts. You need to get out of the house,” she cuts me off, decisive as always. “I’ll pick you up at six.”
Before I can say anything or come up with more reasons why I don’t feel like going out, she hangs up the phone.
I stare at the phone, exasperated. Knowing Lilly, if I’m not ready when she arrives, she’ll drag me out in my oversized sweatshirt and tights. With a sigh, I glance at the clock. An hour and a half. Enough time to shower and try to look presentable.
1
After a quick shower, I stand in front of my closet and groan. Full of clothes, yet nothing to wear. Why is it like that? A woman can own a whole boutique of clothes and still find nothing to wear. The funny thing is that it’s universal. Every woman on planet earth will complain that they have nothing to wear; even with a full closet.
Sighing for the hundredth time, I settle on a simple black dress. Nothing fancy, nothing flashy. This is one of those days I just don’t feel like dressing up.
I keep my makeup minimal: just foundation, concealer, and a touch of lip balm. Instead of heels, I slip into my black flats. Comfortable and effortless.
I’m fastening my purse when a car horn blares outside. Peeking through the curtains, I see Lilly’s car waiting at the curb. I give Blackie enough food and water, lock up, and step out.
The moment I reach her car, she gasps. “What are you wearing?”
“Uh, clothes?”
“Tell me that’s not the outfit you chose.” She says, her eyes practically pleading.
I glance down at myself, then at her. “What’s wrong with it?”
Her horrified look could win awards. “You can’t be serious.”
“I am. At least I’m not in tights.” I slide into the passenger seat.
“But what if we meet a cute guy?”
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I arch a brow at her.
“I’m pregnant, Lilly,” I remind her, rolling my eyes.
“And? What’s that got to do with anything?” She pulls into traffic, her hands casual but her driving just a little too reckless.
As much as Lilly is a great driver, she also has a wild streak. She’s been known to drive like the hounds of
hell are after her.
I just stare at her. Isn’t it obvious?
“Everything,” I reply flatly. “I’m no position to date anyone.”
“Si, your pregnancy doesn’t mean you don’t deserve happiness… And It shouldn’t stop you from finding happiness… If Noah doesn’t want to step up, then we’ll find someone who does.”
My eyes widen. “You’ve officially lost your mind.”
For the briefest moment my mind flashes to Noah. His sharp jaw, stormy eyes and perfect face. It’s ridiculous, really, that even after everything, he’s the first man my thoughts betray me with. But the image curdles as quickly as it comes, and I’m left with thoughts of his cruelty.
I shake myself from those thoughts and focus on Lilly.
She flashes me a grin. “I have not. It’s the perfect plan.”
“How’s that a perfect plan?” I ask. “It’s insane. I don’t need anyone stepping into the father role. I can raise my child on my own.”
Honestly, I love Lilly but sometimes she comes up with really crazy plans and ideas.
“Think about it, baby girl,” she insists. “My nephew needs a father. My cousin is too much of a coward to fill that role, but I guarantee you, we can find someone, who will.”
I gape at her, words failing me. She gives me a fleeting look and fuck! She’s dead serious about it. Doesn’t she know or see how absurd this is?
“I don’t even have time for romance,” I argue. “Between work and the baby, my hands will be full. I’m fine being on my own.”
Her voice is fierce, her grin mischievous. “You’re not searching, but you’re also not staying hidden.”
“No! I don’t want anything to do with your crazy plan.”
“You don’t have to do anything.” Lilly winks at me. “I’ll take care of everything.”
The glint in her eyes makes my stomach twist.
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The problem with Lilly is that once she gets something in her head, there’s no talking her out of it. Doesn’t matter if the idea is brilliant or downright ridiculous. She’ll chase it like it holds the secret to the
fountain of youth.
“Lilly-”
She cuts me off with a triumphant smile. “I think I already have the perfect match for you.”
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