Page 143 of Chasing Sparks

Ash nods and skews his mouth to the side—always an adorable look for him. “I get that.”

But he doesn’t. He can’t. Ash doesn’t know the secrets I’m carrying, and I’m terrified to tell him.

I swipe at the tears gathering in my eyes. “No, you don’t.”

“Then talk to me. I’m here to help you. To protect you. I’ll do anything for you, but you have to open up and let me in.”

I run a finger along the side-view mirror, trying to collect my thoughts.

How do I broach this topic?I’m not ready—not by a million miles.

Ash tips my chin up, forcing me to meet his inquiring gaze. “I know things have been beyond fucked lately, but there’s something else, isn’t there?”

I nod, willing the tears back. It’s time to tell him.

“Beautiful, I can’t do all the talking here.”

As if on cue, a blast of wind cuts through me, and I shiver, gathering my robe tighter around me

“Shit, you’re freezing. Get in the truck.”

I smile and shake my head. “I’m going back inside.”

Ash huffs out a breath and smacks the steering wheel. “Yep, I guess I deserve that. I’m here if you change your mind.”

“You need coffee.”

“I do. And a shower. I’m a bit ripe.”

I shoot him a playful wink. “Lucky for you, I have both. Come inside.”

“Will you join me in the shower?” Just like that, Ash’s flirtatious side comes into play.

I really missed this side of him. Hell, I misseveryside of him.

“Can’t. I’ll be busy making you coffee.”

“If it comes down between you and coffee, you win every time.”

“Baby steps, Ash.”

I stop, realizing my Freudian slip.

But then it hits me—Ash has no reason to think I’m pregnant.

Although that will change in about ten minutes.

Ash grabs his phone and shoots me a dimpled grin. “I have to make a quick call, but I’ll be right in, okay?”

I smile and tap on the truck door. “Don’t keep me waiting.”

Ash grasps my fingers, bringing them to his lips. “Never.”

I stroll up the walkway, pulling in a lungful of crisp air.

Okay, Ori, you can do this. Ash obviously cares about you. Just take a deep breath, tell him about the baby, and reassure him he doesn’t need to do anything.

Easy, right?

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