Page 6 of Alien Dragon's Bride

She slumped down in her chair. How could her father read her so easily? But she dared not tell him of all the extra work she was taking on or he’d make her quit at least half the jobs.

“Didn’t think so,” he huffed. “And you’ve got dark circles under your eyes again. Have you had trouble sleeping?”

“A bit. I’m just worried about you.” She leaned forward and squeezed his hand.

“Bah…don’t worry about me.” He winked. “I’m in the best hospital in the state.”

For less than twenty-four hours, then he’d be back in the tiny medical center in their small town.

“I ran into Cynthia today. Did you know she got a new job?”

“Good for her, maybe she can put in a word for you and you can stop waitressing.” His cough returned.

Her mouth dried. She couldn’t tell him about being a surrogate. How would he react if he knew she was considering it? Sure, it was great for others but somehow she thought he’d feel it was too personal especially since she’d never been pregnant before. Or maybe she was being old-fashioned. What was wrong with loaning out her womb for a couple in need and bringing life into the world?

“Visiting hours will be over in five minutes,” the intercom interrupted her thoughts.

“Give me your word that you’ll follow up with Cynthia—never know where a change for the better might come from.” He pulled her down for a hug and kissed her cheek. “And I want to see proof of your college class registration next time. I’m not asking much. Start with one course then we’ll build on more.”

Tears stung her eyes but she forced a chuckle and squeezed him back. Might as well wait to tell him about the surrogacy. Besides the company could refuse to allow her to participate anyway and she would have riled up her dad for nothing. But she’d do whatever it took to get accepted then worry about how to tell her dad later. First, get the surrogacy company to pay half up-front so she could keep her dad here, then tell him what she’d done in a few months. She could quit her house-cleaning jobs or at least reduce them enough to be able to take a college class and have a life outside of work.

Her voice shaky despite her best efforts to steady her words. “I won’t let you down, promise.”

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