Page 31 of When Love Is Unexpected

She runs inside as Loren gets up slowly from her chair.

"Oh my gosh!" Laila says. "You're huge!"

"Thanks," says a giggling Loren.

Laila is wearing blue jeans, a yellow belted top, and brown boots with heels. Her hair is in a sleek ponytail with loose curls cascading down her back. Today, she is wearing makeup.

"When did you get in?" Laila asks.

"A few hours ago," Loren says.

"Baby Baldwin is doing good?"

"Yes," says Loren. "Kicking me more and more every day. I don't think I'll make it for five more weeks."

"Of course you will," says Laila. "He's gotta finish baking. Keep him in there as long as possible."

"Yes, Dr. Linder," says Loren.

"Everyone's at the house. You want to go see them?"

"Yes, of course!" says Loren. “I have to go pick up Holly. She's at Christina's."

"Call and invite her over," Laila says, "The more, the merrier."

"It was so good to see you, Loren," I say, walking over to hug her before they leave.

"You're coming with us," says Laila. "You have to see Holly and give her the barrette you made her. Do you have it?"

"You made her a barrette?" asks Loren. "How sweet."

"I'll meet you there," I say.

"I have to go back to the house to get my purse," says Loren. "I'll be right back."

When Loren walks out, Laila shuts the door behind her.

"What's wrong?" she asks, looking back at me.

"Laila, this is a family gathering," I say. "I have no business being there."

"Sam, I want you there," she says. "Everyone does."

When she looks at me and smiles, my heart melts. I can't say no to this woman.

One word would have kept me from leaving. I would've never left if she had just said, "Stay."

Chapter 7

Laila

When Loren and I enter the house, every voice erupts with excitement. Mom starts crying, Dad starts laughing, and Loren's face lights up with joy.

"Mom, please don't cry," Loren says, hugging Mom. "We just saw each other last month. I'm here to stay. Don't make me cry."

"You're glowing, Peanut," Dad says as he hugs Loren and kisses her forehead.

"Thank you, Daddy," Loren says, smiling.

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