Page 94 of Even Ground

“She’s already found her voice.” Delaney chuckles. “Give me a second, she’ll want some food. I’ll put you on speaker.”

There’s a rustling noise in the background, and a clunk which I assume is her setting the phone down.

“Remember how hungry Melly was? Addison’s even worse and she’s only a few hours old.”

I laugh. “I remember all the sleepless nights we did together when Melly was born.”

Delaney lets out a loud sigh. “I’m not looking forward to those again. Josh is so excited about everything, though, so he’ll probably be up to get her before I can.”

“Make him do the work. He half made the baby.”

“He’ll take good care of us. Not sure about the cooking, but he can do everything else.” She chuckles. “Tell me what’s going on with you. It’s nearly the end of term. What are you doing for the holidays?”

“Going to see Mum as usual.”

“Give her my love. I’ll send you a ton more photos of Addison because I know you’ll both want to see them.”

“Send me all of the photos.”

Delaney yawns. “Excuse me. I think she’s sucking all the energy out of me.”

“I remember what you were like with Amelia.”

“Breastfeeding is exhausting.” She sighs. “Anyway, this one has fallen asleep with my boob in her mouth. I’m going to try and get some sleep for myself until she wants more food.”

I laugh. “I hope you get some rest.”

“Tomorrow, Josh’s mum will help out. I’m so glad to have them. I miss you and your mum, though.”

“We miss you too. Go get some rest.”

Once the call’s disconnected, I drop the phone on the table and flop onto the couch.

I couldn’t be any happier for Delaney, but it leaves me feeling a little empty. I’ve never been a woman who thought she needed a man to complete her, and I still don’t feel that way, but it would be nice to find one who would just love me as I am.

I know we’re good friends now, but I still wonder if that person is Reece.

21

Reece

Delaney looks up as I walk into their living room. Josh bought her a rocking chair, and she sits in the corner of the room, nursing the baby and smiling a hazy, contented smile.

“This is no excuse for you to look at my boobs,” she says.

I shrug. “Would I do that to you?”

“Yes.” She laughs.

“She’s got you there.” Josh walks into the room from the kitchen and places a mug beside Delaney’s chair.

“You’re so good to me.”

He pecks her on the lips. “Anything to take care of my babies.”

I fake a gag, and he glares at me.

“Reece.” Amelia runs into the room. “Did you see the baby?”

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