Page 87 of Ready or Not

“Thanks, Pat,” he says, hanging up. “He says we should bring her in if any are three minutes apart. He seems to think we might be missing timing some of them.”

“They’re practically impossible to miss,” Holt says dubiously.

“I’m actually good with going to the hospital.” Vale pats my arm. “Help me up.”

“I’ll grab the bags and get them in the truck.” Bishop moves to leave the room.

“No, let’s take the SUV. I’ll have one of the guys bring it over from the garage at the command center,” I say, helping Vale sit up.

Bishop nods. “Tell them to hurry. I’m going to need to grab the backup car seat that’s still in the box from the guest bedroom, but I’ll just toss it in. We can install it later.”

Garza comes over, sitting next to her feet. “Is there anything else you want me to grab?”

“Nope, I just want the epidural as soon as it’s an option.” Vale nods enthusiastically. “Like immediately.”

“We’ll make sure they understand.” Holt leans over to kiss her forehead.

My heart tries to race out of my chest.

Holy shit.

I can’t believe how quickly the time has come. I need to covertly grab her push present, just in case it truly is the real deal.

Frantic energy fills the air as we make it down the stairs.

Kate and Ranger are in the midst of some bizarre standoff in the kitchen.

“I can make a sandwich without an audience.” Kate rolls her eyes, slamming the lid on the jar of mayonnaise.

“As I’ve already said, I don’t trust you. You might have Hargrove and Merryweather fooled, but their affection toward you makes them biased. I am not.” Ranger shrugs, leaning back against the counter. “If you’re trustworthy, then convince me. Otherwise, I’ll be watching their backs.”

Vale and I come to a stop at the end of the island. I’m not sure why, but Kate has always rubbed me the wrong way. I don’t think it’s a bad thing to have Ranger gauging her intentions.

“We’re heading to the hospital,” I explain.

“Good,” Ranger says, studying Vale. “I felt confident I could deliver your baby via a C-section in an emergency, but stitching you back up might be beyond my capabilities.”

Kate looks at Ranger with utter distaste. “I told you he’s a lunatic.”

“I’m excellent at removing body parts. Putting them back together, not so much.” Ranger chuckles. “Let me grab my coat. I’ll follow you to ensure you arrive safely. Grab your sandwich, Kate. You’ll be taking it to go.”

“Thank you,” I say, continuing to guide Vale toward the door.

“I’m pretty sure he was just kidding.” Vale hobbles along at my side. “I don’t know why everyone gives him such a bad rap.”

I pat her arm and lower back. It’s much better if she continues not to fear him. He seems to find it amusing. Also, it’s easier to have them coexist when she’s not completely terrified.

“The SUV is ready to go.” Bishop sticks his head in the door from the garage.

Vale glances between him and back toward the bathroom we just passed. “I think I better stop one more time.”

“That’s no problem,” I assure her, carefully turning us the opposite direction. We make it back to the restroom, and I don’t release her as we meander inside.

Turning back, I close the door.

“What are you doing?” she asks with wide eyes.

“I’m keeping you company.” I move her hand to my shoulder and squat down to help her pull her panties down.

---