Page 64 of Strike Zone

“It’s a gift, and you secretly love it.”

Seconds span out for eons as we wait with bated breath. I reach out and clutch his hand, my knuckles turning white, suddenly so aware that this is something we’ll share for the rest of our lives. No matter what happens or whether we find a way to be an us—we’re having a baby together.

“You’re going to be proud parents of a beautiful baby girl.”

“Oh my God.” With his other hand, Linc runs his fingers over my stomach in the same swirling pattern of the ultrasound doppler. “That’s our baby girl in there, Diana.” I’ve never seen him emotional, but his eyes are glassy with unshed tears.

“A girl.” I’m in shock.

“Damn.” Linc lifts his fingers which are now covered in ultrasound gel. “Didn’t think that through.”

“So, pretty much like everything else you do,” I jest.

“And yet amazing things come from my questionable judgment.” His gaze burns into me, unlike any man before him, and just for a moment, I wish I could see myself through his eyes. I wish I knew how he sees me now in the midst of all this.

“I can’t argue with you there.” This is as close to a tender moment with Linc as I’ve let myself have. Anything more is too overwhelming.

“Everything looks great. Make an appointment to see me in three weeks. If you have any concerns in the meantime, feel free to call.” The OB busies herself printing our pictures.

“Thank you.”

“I’ll leave you to get organized, and see you both again soon.” The second she leaves the room, I set about cleaning the gel off my stomach. When I’m done, Linc reaches over and pulls my top down for me before caressing his hand over the small swell of my belly.

“There’s really a baby in there. Our daughter.”

“Yep. Does it weird you out?”

His eyes widen as he drags his gaze from my stomach to my face. “No. I’m in awe of you right now.”

“Really?”

“You’re growing a human. The most amazing thing I’ll manage today is jaywalking in Manhattan without being run over by an irate taxi driver.”

“True. I guess I’m pretty kickass. I deserve a three-course lunch for sure.”

“Anywhere you want, beautiful.”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Shoot.” He offers his hand to steady me as I get up.

“Why didn’t you correct the doctor when she assumed we’re together?”

“Because it’s none of her business. And I figured if you wanted her to know, you’d tell her.”

“I should have. Sorry.” My stomach bottoms out, dropping into my boots. It was wrong of me to let her think Linc is my boyfriend. It’s strange that with all my accomplishments and my career flying in the face of social expectations for women, I still don’t want to be seen as an easy lay or labeled a Jezebel.

“You don’t have to apologize, Diana. I’m here for you, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation of our relationship… whatever this is we’re doing.”

“All the same, you didn’t have to play it up by asking about the safety of us having sex.”

“Who said I was playing up?” I wait for a sly wink or mischievous grin, but his expression remains serious.

“What?”

“You said you’re really horny.”

“We’re not dating, Linc. Just because you’re the father, I don’t expect you to be my sex slave while I turn into the Goodyear blimp.”

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