Page 54 of Interception

Okay, he got me. A laugh escapes me as he tucks me into his chest, his warmth warming my back as he drapes his hand over my stomach. This is the way we fall asleep at night, it’s super corny, and I love it.

“I love you, beautiful, farts and all.”

“Let’s never speak of this again.”

* * *

My OBGYN says I could go into labor anytime now. She thinks it’s best for me to have a planned C-section, so we don’t have any surprises or problems. She gave us stats on so many scenarios that it was all a bit overwhelming. Coop and I talked it over, and as much as I’d prefer not to have surgery, I want to do what I feel is right for the babies.

Coop has backed me on every decision throughout my pregnancy, but at this point, I can tell he’s worried about the birth. I’m focused on the two little lives I have to bring safely into the world. He’s got the added burden of worrying about me.

We’re meeting up with Faith and Hunter tonight for dinner, and after talking it over with Coop, I’m going to ask Faith if she’ll be there with us. I don’t want to be on my own while they sew me back up like Frankenstein’s monster, and I’m adamant that Coop stays with the babies once they’re out. They need to be the priority, and if Faith is there to hold my hand, he won’t feel so torn between the twins and me.

Faith has always been my rock, and it only seems fitting that her husband is Coop’s steadfast friend. I’m sure he’ll come to the hospital and sit in the waiting room in case Faith or Coop need him.

I’m struggling at this late stage to find any clothes that fit. Stretchy pants are my savior, and I’m way past cute maternity tops. These boys are big and heavy. I’ve taken to wearing Coop’s jerseys and shirts, and even they are getting a little snug.

The nursery is finished, and there are two cribs ready and waiting for some babies. When I can’t sleep at night due to the worst heartburn, I go into the room and sit in the rocking chair in the corner. Staring at the cribs, I still find it hard to picture what life is going to look like for us in a few weeks.

Faith and Hunter are already at the restaurant when we arrive, and my bestie is off her feet and hugging me as best she can. Side hugs have become a thing now. No one can reach me from the front anymore.

“Oh my God! You’ve gotten bigger this week.” She cups my belly, dipping down to say hello. “Hey, boys, it’s Auntie Faith. I got you some cute clothes today and lots of books.”

“Don’t say bigger, Faith. Zee will knock you out if you say that again,” Coop interjects.

“I mean it in a good way! You look amazing, Zee. Like actually glowing. Pregnancy suits you.”

“Yeah, yeah. Tell that to my bladder and my esophagus at three in the morning.”

Hunter stands to give me another side hug. “Hey, Zee. Babies giving you a tough time?”

“Yes.”

“They already take after their dad, then.” He shoves Coop’s shoulder, and they do their bromance hug before we all take our seats at the table. Damn, I don’t think I can get close enough to eat my dinner. I’m officially over pregnancy in a big way.

Coop sidles up beside me, draping his arm across the back of my chair. “You okay, beautiful?”

“I won’t be able to reach my plate.”

“I can fix that. The way I see it, you have two options.”

“And they are?” He has that little hint of mischief in his voice, so I know he’s about to make a joke of some kind.

“Option one, we balance the plate on your stomach. You have your own built-in table.”

“That makes me want to stab a fork in your hand. Next option.”

“You can sit back, relax, and I’ll feed you like Cleopatra. You’re my queen, and you know I like to meet all of your needs.”

“Better.” I want to lean over and kiss him for being so sweet, but I’m afraid I’ll tip over. “Come here and kiss me, champ.”

“Your wish is my command.”

“Y’all are so cute,” Faith says as she snuggles close to Hunter. “When are you going to tie the knot?”

I kick her under the table. I can still move my ankles. “I’m going to need you to shut up, Faith.”

“What? You’re having babies. You live together. You’re in love and about to be a little family of four. Why do I get a kick in the shin for asking? It’s going to happen eventually. Why not now?”

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