Page 87 of The Merciless King

To think he wouldn’t...

God, I’m losing it.

Why on earth would Braxton Rossi want to have babies with me?

Take me with you.

I should have never said that to him today. I wanted him to say he would. His response wasn’t what I wanted to hear, and the emotions have lingered all day.

He’s leaving.

I don’t know when or why, and I know enough about this world and the men in it to not ask.

Clearing my throat, I ask, “When are you due?”

“Oh, it’s only in the early days. This will be my second child, so we’re incredibly happy.” Summer glances at Mack who looks proud as punch.

“They were childhood sweethearts.” Mia leans in. “Isn’t that romantic?”

I nod quickly. “Very.”

Yet all I feel is envy.

“Whereas I’m just about to burst.” Isabella, the very clearly pregnant woman announces.

“Decker.” Her partner, or maybe husband, says, and Braxton shakes his hand as I smile at them both.

“We’re here.” Another female’s voice calls out.

When I turn, Braxton steps in closer, placing his hand on my lower back, and we greet the two newcomers.

This man is as enormous as the others, including Braxton and Connor. Jeez, they look like they are soldiers.

Not my father’s soldiers.

They could be wearing US military uniforms and look in place. Yet they’re dressed in expensive civilian clothing and clearly all good friends.

The men do that man-handshake and the women hug.

I realize Braxton and I have joined a group of very close friends and suddenly wonder why Mia invited us.

“I hope we are not intruding this evening,” I say to Mia after being introduced to Nathan and Sienna.

“Not at all.” Mia smiles. “It’s a great opportunity to both see my friends and introduce you to everyone else.”

“God, I need to sit down,” Isabella says.

Decker leads her to a seat. “Water or juice?”

“I want champagne.” She pouts and I can’t help but like her. I would struggle not to drink the delicious golden bubbles myself for nine long months.

“Negative,” Decker says. “No one give her alcohol.”

“As if we would,” Sienna says, plonking down beside her friend.

“Don’t trust either of them.” Nathan shakes his head.

“One sip. I can have one sip,” Isabella groans.

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