Page 6 of When Love And Destiny Collide

"This can’t be happening," I mutter, turning to leave.

"Wait," he calls after me. "Where are you going?"

"I'm going home," I say, my voice rigid. The heat creeping up my neck and spreading across my face is enough to keep me from looking back at him.

I'm thankful to God in heaven when he doesn't stop me.

Once inside my house—hishouse, I pull out my phone and call Loren, one of my best friends.

“Hi, Lily,” Loren’s soothing voice immediately calms my nerves.

“Thank goodness you're still awake," I blurt out. "You're not going to believe what happened!”

As I recount today's events, she bursts into laughter while I fight the rising urge to cry.

“I can’t believe you’re laughing!” I protest. “Were you even listening?”

"I was listening," she replies, still chuckling. "Uncle Noah might not look like Dad on the outside, but inside, he's just like him."

"I find that really hard to believe. He was rude, obnoxious, and arrogant."

"Whoa," she says, her laughter fading. "That's not Noah at all."

“You’re supposed to be my bestie!” I retort. “You’re supposed to be on my side!”

Her tone turns comforting. “Lily, you know I love you, and if it comes down to it, I’ll always have your back.”

“What should I do?” I ask, feeling overwhelmed. “He’s my landlord!”

"I think you should march back to the house and talk to him," Loren suggests.

"Yeah, no," I reply. "I’m not doing that."

"You’re going to have to face him eventually. Like you said, he’s your landlord."

“Ugh, don’t remind me!”

“It’s going to be okay, I promise,” Loren reassures me, though her words do little to ease my anxiety.

“Okay,” I agree, though I’m far from convinced. “How are you holding up? Still feeling sick?”

“Carrying twins is tougher than I ever imagined," she sighs. "I'm hungry all the time, but the thought of eating makes me ill. I'm tired, cranky and bloated."

“Are you managing to enjoy your vacation despite the morning sickness?” I ask, concerned.

“I’m going to enjoy every second of it,” she says. I can hear the smile in her voice.

"I wish I was there to take care of you," I say.

"You wish you were here because you wish you weren't there."

"True," I admit. "I'm not gonna lie. I wish I were anywhere but here."

"Take a deep breath, go to bed, and call me in the morning."

"Yes, Dr. Baldwin," I chuckle softly. "I love you, Loren. Have a good night."

"Love you too. Talk to you tomorrow."

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