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“Of course, but that’s what small towns are like. Have you told your maw yet?”
My stomach tightens. “Nope.”
He frowns. “Just as well I’m not a judgemental guy or I might have something to say about that. As you said, the bump is only going to get bigger. You won’t be able to hide it forever.”
“Well, it’s a good thing you’re not a judgemental guy because I wouldn’t want you sticking your nose in and telling me how to handle my mum.”
He smirks and holds up his hands in defeat. “Noted! Although I think I’ve found my topic for next week’s call: family!” He winks.
“Oh, yeah? Bring it on! So long as you’re prepared to answer some tough questions about your family.”
“Ha! It’ll clearly be a more contentious topic than travel, but since we’ve got five getting-to-know-you calls under our belts, I reckon we’re ready for some more challenging subjects.”
“Agreed. And for the week after that, we could go even more controversial, like . . . former partners!” I wince. “Oh, wait, it has to be something we can talk about in an hour, doesn’t it? That might be difficult for you, as by all accounts you’ve slept with more women than I’ve read books—and I’m a voracious reader.”
Aidan chuckles and runs a hand through his hair. “You know, Grace, on first impressions, you’re a sweet lass, a yoga teacher who’s in touch with nature and full of love for all around her. Now I’ve got to know you better, though, I’ve discovered you can be feisty when you want to.”
We lock eyes, and there’s a mischievous glint in Aidan’s gaze. To my great annoyance, my heart rate quickens.
He’s the first to look away, towards the corner of his screen. “Our hour’s almost up.”
“Same time next week?”
“Aye, or we could continue talking? I’m game for bending the rules if you are.”
The rules he’s referring to are ones I came up with before our first call. I told Aidan I was happy to speak to him once a week for an hour max. I think it’s important for us to have clearly defined boundaries.
“No, let’s stick to what we agreed, yeah?”
Aidan’s smile falters—just for a moment, but infuriatingly, that fleeting glimpse of vulnerability tugs at my heartstrings.
“Having said that,” I add, unable to help myself, “my next scan is coming up. If you and Ally have bookings you can’t get out of, that’s fine. Plus, I know it’s a long way to travel for an appointment, so there’s no obligation, but if you like, next week, instead of a video call, we could meet in London? You can see the baby on the monitor, and we should be able to find out whether it’s a boy or a girl.”
“Really?” Aidan sits up straighter, his grin back to full force. “I’d love that!”
I’m touched by his eagerness. I just hope I don’t regret this.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
GRACE
Grace
Where are you?
After going by myself to my last scan, I was looking forward to having Aidan with me today. But he’s nowhere to be seen, and once again, I’m the only expectant mother in the busy waiting area who hasn’t brought along someone for support.
Aidan
Not far! Count to 1000, and I’ll be there.
Grace
I’m not counting to 1000! Anyway, I’m pretty sure I’m next. They’ll be calling me any minute.
Aidan
All right, I’ll count for you. 1, 2, 3 . . . actually, scrap that, here I am!
