Page 48 of Drive Me Crazy

"C'mon Boo Baby, Unc is gettin' you outta here." She takes my hand, blowing them kisses.

"Wait a minute, I want a proper goodbye." Mack steps toward a little hand to halt her.

She shakes her finger. "Uh-un lady, I am not getting' pregnant."

We're stunned before erupting into laughter. "Imma pray for y'all."

"Have a wonderful day, Baby." Boone kisses the top of her head. "Thanks, man. You two be good."

"Hit me up and give me the details. Be careful." I lean in, kissing Mack. "Love you."

"I love you too." Boone cocks his head, coming at me with puckered lips.

I grab Rumor's hand, jerking her toward the door. "Let's roll, your dad's trying to get me pregnant now!"

"Bye, y'all!" Rumor waves as we head out the door.

I hold the door open while she climbs into the back of the cab and into her car seat. Rumor will forever be my baby; I'm going to be a mess when she gets too old for her Uncle to fix everything.

She's gently pulled away since Boone's been back and I can't lie, it breaks my heart a little. I raised her with all the love I would have for one of my own, I just wasn't prepared to give her up.

"Alright, I have to swing by the apartment for some clothes and then we'll hit up the store for some candy you can share with your friends today." I hold out my hand for her to slap it.

As I pull out of the driveway, my phone rings. I yank it out, checking it at the stoplight. It's Em.

"Hey, Em."

"I'm so sorry but I forgot I have an appointment today and need to leave. There's no one here yet for our guest, they don't show up for another hour. What should I do?" Emerson's voice quivers.

I glance at Rumor, knowing I've already decided to go. "Hey, Boo. Unc needs to take care of someone, you okay with that?"

"Yup, let's do this!" She gives me a thumbs up.

"We're on the way."

"I didn't realize you have Rumor, are you sure?" Emerson lowers her voice.

I flip on my turn signal and make the turn. "Yeah, but I have to come in the back, the windows aren't tinted, and I refuse to take the chance."

"I'll be waiting. Thanks, Bub."