Page 74 of Robert

He gathered her to him, crushing her against his chest, his body shuddering. For several minutes, they remained that way as the emotions swamped them completely.

*****

“Are you okay?” Cat asked anxiously when she noticed her sister-in-law rubbing her stomach.

“Why?” They were outdoors having a barbecue, something her husband had put together with his sister’s help along with several friends to celebrate her birthday. She loved the man, but had told him pointblank that she would have preferred spending the time with him. Just a quiet dinner for two and cake.

They were having a son, and she was busy seeing to the design of a jungle themed nursery. The nausea had been replaced by swollen ankles and weird ass cravings.

“You haven’t touched your steak, and you look tired.”

“Why thank you, honey. Will you stop being a damn doctor for a few minutes? Or did your brother sent you over to keep an eye on me?” She swung her gaze over to where he was, chatting with several friends.

The party was being at her place because of the large backyard that was conducive to grilling and the scent of steak, burgers and hot dogs permeated the air.

“I am a doctor,” Cat grinned at her. They had become close because she realized how much the woman made her brother happy. In all the years she knew him, she had never seen him so relaxed and contented. “And yes, he did. He wants you to sit and elevate your legs.” She stared at Sonya’s ankles. “They are swollen.”

She lowered herself onto the chaise lounge and had to admit that it was a relief as her back was also hurting.

“There, satisfied?” She grumbled.

“Why don’t I get you some cake?” Cat suggested.

“Now you are talking. Go.”

“So very bossy.”

“I’m pregnant and since I am the one carrying this precious cargo, I get to call the shots.” She placed a hand over her stomach and felt a jolt when the baby kicked.

“Was that…?”

“Yes.” She laughed as Cat sat down and placed her hand over hers.

“My nephew.” She blinked away tears. “I cannot wait to meet you, darling.”

“Cake. Now.”

“Coming right up.”

Robert cut off the man abruptly and made his way over to her.

“Hey.”

“Hey.” She snuggled against him as he pulled her into his arms.

“Everything okay?”

“Your guard dog is doing an excellent job.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” he said airily, kissing the top of her head.

“Yeah, right,” she snorted. “I sent her to get cake.”

Easing back, he studied her exquisite face. One that he adored beyond comprehension. “Did you really want cake or was that a ploy to get rid of her?”

“Both. Thanks for the party.”

“Even though you would have preferred something less.”

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