Page 89 of Don't Quit the Day Job

"Lila, I don't?—"

"I have to go. Bye," I say and hang up. I stare at the phone in my hand as it starts ringing again, but I don’t want to talk to Max again right now. I power off the phone and rub my thudding head. My eyes feel heavy and all of a sudden I feel nauseous.

Turn your phone on and call him out on everything, Lila. The little voice in my head shouts at me. Grow up and ask him straight out if he’s having a baby.

I know I should just ask him straight out. But I’m scared to hear his answer. I’m scared he’s going to tell me that he’s having a baby and can’t do whatever we’ve been doing. Jealousy swims in my stomach and my skin feels warm. I’m annoyed with myself that I’m acting like a baby. I’m annoyed that I don’t have the courage to learn the truth. But even more than anything else, I’m annoyed by how hurt I am by the whole thing.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Max

It's been two nights since I last spoke to Lila. She hasn't even responded to any of my text messages. I have no idea what I said or did to upset her, but I can barely focus during the day, wondering what she's doing.

"Hey, Max," Marie says as she hands me a slice of pizza.

"Yeah?"

"Thank you so much for everything you've done this week, booking all those doctor's appointments, going with me to them, helping me to break the news to Dad and my mom. I really appreciate it."

"I know. You've really got yourself into a bad position here, Marie, but like I told you, you're my sister and I love you."

"I know, and I know that Dad is mad at me, and probably you too now. I just want to say thank you. I know he wants me to give the baby up for adoption."

"And you're sure you don't want to do that?" I ask her. "I'm fully supportive of whatever decision you make."

"I want the baby. I know I'm young and I know it's not really the best option to be a single mom, but I have so much love to give and..."

"I know," I say. "So we'll figure it out. I just…I'm going to have to go back to work next week."

"I know. And we're going to go shopping for baby stuff tomorrow, right?"

"No, I have a bachelor party tomorrow to go to and I'll be hanging out with some friends. But maybe on Sunday?"

"Okay," she says. "Fine. I can figure some stuff out to do."

"Good," I say. "And we're going to see if we can't get you into a university here in The City. I've already spoken to a couple of friends who have kids and they’ve put me in contact with several different nanny agencies. So when the time comes, we'll have help."

"You really don't have to do that, Max. And you really don't have to buy me an apartment in this building. I really?—"

"Marie." I give her a look. "I love you, but we're both going to need our independence. But you are my little sister, so I'm going to have you close."

"But next door?"

"Let's just say they liked the offer that I made."

"You really are the best big brother."

"Well, I'm glad you think so. Now, if you don't mind, I need to make a call."

"Of course," she says. "Thanks again."

"You're welcome." I grab my phone and decide to call Lila instead of texting her. The phone rings but goes to voicemail and I let out a deep sigh. I decide to try again. She answers this time.

"Yes? Can I help you?"

"What's with the attitude, Lila?"

"Nothing. What's going on? Is this business related? Do you need me to get you a bagel and coffee? What do you want from me, Max?"

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