Page 107 of Only Ever You

After the call ends, I head into the bedroom and strip out of my clothes. It’s still early, and there are no signs of a baby bump yet, but I run my hand over my stomach.

I’ve got so much to think about.

* * *

Despite my best efforts, I have yet another sleepless night.

I have to make a decision and soon if only to get a good night’s sleep.

And at the usual time, there’s a knock on the door.

I don’t bother rushing. He’ll wait.

And I must look a sight from his raised eyebrows when I open the door.

“Are you okay?”

I shrug. “I couldn’t sleep.”

He holds up his offerings and smiles. “Then I’m extra glad I brought you your pick-me-up this morning.”

“You’re so thoughtful.” I scrub my face with my hands before reaching out to take the coffee and food.

“I’ll do this every morning if it makes you happy.” He hands them over before leaning in to drop a kiss on my cheek.

“Why do you keep saying all the right things?”

“Come for dinner tonight, and I’ll say some more.”

He turns to leave, and I shove the pastry bag in the same hand as my coffee so I can grab hold of his arm. “Deacon, wait.”

“What is it?”

“Don’t make me wait for dinner. Come in and talk to me.”

There’s hope in his eyes, and it makes me smile to see it. He might have been on my doorstep every day with breakfast, but he’s been patient and he’s opened up to me.

He’s sincere.

“Are you sure?”

“Please?”

He follows me in and when I take a seat on the couch, I pat the cushion beside me before placing the coffee cup and the paper bag on the coffee table.

“Pippa, I know I just asked, but are you sure about this? Have something to eat and a nap, and maybe …”

I shake my head. “No. I need to say some things.”

He reaches out, his hand brushing mine before he frowns and pulls back.

“Deacon. I love you. I never stopped.”

His face lights up.

“But my issue is I’m not sure if I can trust you—not when you let me down so badly.”

His Adam’s apple bobs, and he nods. “I understand.”

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