Page 43 of Lani

Vinny kisses my shoulder, our eyes glued to the screen. I can’t really make anything out, but the sound of the heartbeat is enough for me.

“Trey, can you record the heartbeat for me?” I ask.

He takes out his phone and records for a minute. Vinny rubs my tummy. I feel like I could burst. I never dreamed that I could be this happy.

The doctor writes me out a prescription for some prenatal meds and hands us some papers with information we may need.

“I’m not sure if it’s a good idea for you to come on the raid tomorrow,” Trey tells me once we’re in the truck.

“Why don’t you want me to?” My first thought is to be angry that he would suggest something like that. I take his hand and hold it as he pulls away.

He looks over at me and his eyes go to my belly. “I just can’t bear the thought of something happening to you.”

“I really want to go. We’ve put so much effort into getting it ready. Do you think we could find a solution?” I offer, and he smiles.

“Baby, you are too fucking sweet. I want you out of harm’s way. I want extra protection with you. I want Danny to stay with you guys until it’s safe. Deal?” Trey asks me and Vinny both.

“I like that idea. I’ll be careful and I’ll stay put until one of you come get me.” I can understand the need to make sure I’m safe.

They make sure I feel so safe that I forgot that Freddy even existed. California feels like it’s such a long time ago, a different part of my life even.

Everyone in Raleigh, Texas has left me alone or they’re just intimidated by the guys. Not even fans approach me anymore and that’s what I wanted.

What I have wanted for so long is happening before my very eyes. Next week I’m going to look at places for lease to put in a clothes store.

There are a lot of boutique stores, but not a lot of them carry plus size clothes and everyone should be able to feel pretty. I’d like to have someone in the store to help alter clothes if needed.

I look out of the window, watching the small town of Raleigh pass by. “I’m excited to tell people.”

Vinny grins. “The girls will be so excited.”

“Our baby and Michaela can grow up together.” I’m excited at the idea of them growing up, to see them playing together.

I rest my head on Vinny’s shoulder. I couldn’t stop the smile on my face even if I tried.

Freddy

She’s pregnant? She can’t be. She’s meant to be mine! I punch the wall outside of the clinic, where she’s sitting with those stupid fuckers who’ve kidnapped her!

They’ve taken her from me. They both use her and abuse her!

That is the only way she could have let them touch her. She knows she’s mine. That’s the only reason, isn’t it?

I stand in the alley as they push her along to get in the truck. Why are they touching her so much?

They’re going regret it. I will have her and she’ll be thankful that I’ve taken her away from those devil men.

I’m waiting and watching to find the right moment to make my move and take her with me.

The truck door closes with her inside. I’m so close but so far away.

I will have her.

Soon, my darling.

* * *

Vinny

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