Page 26 of Love or Tequila in Unexpected Places

His genuine excitement was a relief, washing over her like a wave. “It’s in two weeks,” she replied, feeling a bit of tension return to her shoulders. “I know you’re really busy so it’s okay if you can’t—”

“Allison. That’s perfect. I’ll make sure to clear my schedule,” he said, and she could hear the smile in his voice. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

She didn’t know why she paused whenever he said her name in that tone. It was just her name, after all. But the way he said it sent a little shiver down her spine, reminding her of that night together—the way he’d ordered her around, with an authority that had excited her. She felt a warmth blossom in her chest, and she thought she could practically melt at the sound.

It was a mixture of affection and something deeper, a connection that she hadn’t fully grasped yet. The memory of their intimate moments danced in her mind, and she felt hercheeks flush as she recalled the way he had looked at her, his gaze filled with intensity and desire.

Allison shook her head clear of the fantasies, thankful that he couldn’t see her. “Thanks, Angelo. I appreciate it.” For the first time, she felt a flicker of hope that maybe they could navigate this together after all.

Doubts seeped in immediately, settling like a lead weight in Allison’s stomach. “But what if something happens to the baby before then?” she blurted, fidgeting nervously with her fingers as if they might somehow distract her from the spiraling thoughts in her head.

“Everything will be just fine, baby—baby mama,” Angelo replied, stumbling over his words. The slip-up made Allison raise an eyebrow, considering that he’d almost called her “baby”.

No, he’s just busy and probably tired.Still, now Ihaveto tease him.

“Is that what you’ll be calling me, Mr. Taylor?” she asked, a playful lilt in her voice. “That’s a tad inappropriate, don’t you think?” Her words were serious, but the softness in her tone betrayed her amusement.

Angelo didn’t answer immediately. In the short moment it took him to come up with a response, Allison began second-guessing herself, her mind racing.

Was that too forward?

Was this a mistake?

I shouldn’t have teased him; that’s what’s inappropriate!

Oh, God, now he won’t want anything to do with me or this baby.

He’ll probably leave us both to fend for ourselves and I’ll raise my kid alone.

My child will grow up without a father, need therapy sessions that I won’t be able to afford because I’ll have to quit work.

And because they won’t go to therapy, they’ll probably get depressed, start drinking, and doing drugs!

Oh my God, my child will be an addict, and it’s all my fault!

Just when she thought she might actually hyperventilate from the weight of her worries, Angelo finally spoke. “I can call you anything you want, Ms. Lockwood.”

Oh. Oh, he’s teasing me back.

A smile broke through her panic, and she couldn’t help but laugh. “Oh really? Anything?”

“Absolutely,” he replied, a smile in his voice. “I could even start calling you ‘Queen of the Pregnant Kingdom’ if you’d like.”

Allison snorted, the tension releasing from her shoulders. “Now that’s just ridiculous, and you know it!” she said, feeling lighter.

“Fine, how about ‘Lady of the Lavish Lattes’ instead?” he quipped, clearly enjoying their playful banter.

“Okay, that one I can get behind,” she replied, feeling a sense of calm return.

Angelo was still slightly chuckling when he said, “Make sure to send me the details about the appointment, Allison.”

“Okay,” she replied, trying to sound casual, but her heart was still racing from their playful exchange.

“Perfect. I’ll see you then.”

With that, she hung up, still caught up in the warmth of their conversation. But as soon as the call ended, a wave of embarrassment washed over her.

I got so flustered that I couldn’t even say goodbye like a decent human being!

---