Page 30 of When Love Is Unexpected

"Of course I do," I say. "It was one of the best weddings I've ever been to. Watching the two of you exchange your wedding vows was so touching. There wasn't a dry eye in the room."

"Thank you," she says.

"Is he excited about the baby?"

"Oh my gosh, yes! He talks to my belly every day. He helped Holly write a little jingle that she sings to the baby every night. It's part of her bedtime routine. She says her prayers and then sings this little song to her brother or sister. It's so cute."

"That's great, Loren. I'm so happy for you."

"I'm happy for me, too," she says. "What about you? You're in the States to attend your sister's wedding, right?"

"Yes," I say, "that's next weekend. But I also came to see Laila. I miss her."

"You two belong together," she says. "And I know what you're going to say, 'She's taken,' but I don't think she and Eric will end up together."

"They broke up," I say.

"They did? When?"

"The day before I got here."

"Sam, you need to let her know how you feel."

"She's moving to Boston in three months," I say. "She has a one-track mind, and her residency is the only thing that matters to her right now. I would only be in her way."

"She was heartbroken when you left," she says. "You matter to her. I've never seen my sister like that before."

"If she doesn't feel the same way," I say. "I'll lose her friendship. I'm not willing to put that on the line—never."

She gives me a slight smile.

"I'm glad you're staying here," she says, changing the subject. "This is your home."

"I appreciate that, Loren. You've been such a wonderful friend to me."

"We're family," she says, reaching for my hand. "Have you seen Laila?"

"Yes," I say. "She should be here soon.

"Is she going to San Diego with you?"

"Yes," I say. "We leave on Saturday."

"Take advantage of this time," she says. "Figure out exactly where you're both at. You hear me?"

I nod but decide to change the subject, "Do you have names picked out for the baby?"

"Yes," she says, her face lighting up, "If it's a girl, her name is Elizabeth."

"Elizabeth is your middle name, right?"

"Yes," she says, "Elizabeth is my paternal grandmother's name. If it's a boy, his name is Peter, after Aaron's dad."

When the doorbell rings, I get up to answer it.

"It's probably Laila," I say.

"Loren!" Laila's squeal fills the room as soon as I open the door.

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