Total pages in book: 103
Estimated words: 104766 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 524(@200wpm)___ 419(@250wpm)___ 349(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 104766 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 524(@200wpm)___ 419(@250wpm)___ 349(@300wpm)
But we can't ignore the complexities of our situation.
Grady's interference and the colossal fuck up created all stands between us. It’s a barrier I'm not sure how to overcome.
And then there's the practicality of it all. How will we make this work when we live so far apart?
As I toss and turn, my mind dances between desire and uncertainty.
It's more than just physical attraction. It's a longing to connect on a deeper level, to bridge the gap. I want to be there for Tess, not just as the father of her child, but as someone who cares about her well-being and happiness.
Is that strange?
The moonlight shifts, casting patterns on the walls, and I find myself lost in thought. I know it won't be easy. We're navigating uncharted territory, trying to find a way through the mess. But I'm more determined than ever to see where this path leads.
With a sigh, I close my eyes, the image of Tess's smile still vivid in my mind. The pull between us is undeniable, and as I drift into a fitful sleep, I can't help but hope that somehow, against all odds, we'll find a way to be together. Not just in the other bedroom but in a way that encompasses all the complexities of our feelings and the future we might share.
Do not go into her room.
Let her sleep.
But she wasn’t tired when we came to bed—she had that nap.
I can check on her. That’s not a crime.
And if she isn’t sleeping or tired, we can talk some more. Lord knows we have years’ worth of stuff to discuss.
I stand before her bedroom door, heart hammering against my rib cage.
Should I even be doing this? What if she wants her space?
I need to know how she's feeling, if she's okay, and if there's a chance for us to bridge the gap that's formed between us. They don’t call me the Sensitive Colter for nothing…
With a quiet exhale, I gently knock on her door. "Tess?"
“Hmm?”
She’s awake, and the television flows like a night-light.
I nudge the door open, revealing Tess in a loose-fitting shirt that accentuates her very small baby bump. Her hair is slightly tousled, and her eyes hold a mixture of surprise and curiosity.
"Drew? Is everything okay?" Her voice is soft, tinged with a hint of vulnerability.
"Yeah. Yes. Everything is fine. I just, I couldn't sleep," I admit, my gaze locking onto hers. "And I thought...maybe we could talk? As long as you’re not too tired."
The room is bathed by the television light, casting a cozy atmosphere that's a stark contrast to the tension that's been swirling around us.
I wish like hell I had something funny to say.
“No, I had that nap, remember?” Still, she yawns, which is a good sign, considering it’s so late.
She pats the mattress. “Don’t be shy. Sit.”
I sit, sprawling out when she makes room for me.
“On a scale of one to ten, how tired are you?” she asks.
“Why are you asking me? You’re the one who’s pregnant and going through it. All I have to deal with is trolls and my family. You have…the physical side of it.”
“So is that like, a four?” She laughs.
“More like a five, but sure. Or a six. What about you?”
“Twelve.” She laughs again, her head resting on the pillow and her hand resting on her stomach.
"Tess," I start, my voice a whisper, "I know this is going to sound weird, but can I...touch your, you know—bump?"
Tess looks up, surprise and uncertainty flickering in her eyes before a warm smile graces her lips.
"Yes, of course. I mean, it’s your baby too."
Maybe, but it’s not my body, and I’m terrified to touch her.
But her permission is all I need as I settle myself, and my eyes locked onto her stomach. Whoa—a tiny life growing within her, and I reach out, my fingers hovering over her belly for a moment before making contact with her tee shirt.
Awe and wonder course through me.
I feel the warmth of her body beneath my fingertips, the soft curve of her belly beneath my touch. This is wild; a connection unlike anything I've ever experienced, a tangible reminder of the life blossoming inside her.
Her and me.
Crazy.
Unbelievable.
Unexpected.
Scary as fuck.
Tess's breath catches when my hand makes contact, and I glance up to meet her gaze. Her eyes shine with a mix of emotions—vulnerability, gratitude, and something more I can't quite define. It's as if this simple touch has opened a door, allowing us to share in this intimate moment together.
Here I go overthinking things.
One step at a time, bro.
"It's amazing," I murmur, my voice barely above a whisper. "I can’t wrap my brain around it, honestly. Can you feel it kick?"
“Uh, no, it’s way too soon for that. And I don’t know if I’m out of the woods yet. It’s pretty early, you know?”