Page 70 of Love and Memories

Travis’s eyes widened. “You can feel it?”

She looked up at him, and his childlike wonder probably mirrored her own. “I’ve never felt it before.”

Travis’s breaths deepened as a wide smile spread on his face. It was a look of pure joy.

“Do you want to feel it?” she asked.

His gaze lowered to her hand. “Can I?”

She took his hand in hers and pressed his fingertips to the spot where the baby was kicking. They stood stone still for a few seconds before she felt the movement and Travis’s breath hitched.

“That’s the baby?” he asked, struck with the same wonder she was still experiencing.

“It is!” Her breaths quickened as the baby moved again. “This is amazing!”

Travis pressed his fingers to the spot and stepped closer until his chest brushed her shoulder. “It’s moving a lot.”

Bella rested her hand over his and closed her eyes. The only thing she could think to do was pray and thank God for this amazing wonder. Her heart beat a quick rhythm as elation bubbled inside her.

“Bella, you’re doing so great. This baby has no idea, but it has the best mom.”

The wave of emotion hit her without warning. “Ope. I’m gonna cry.” The tears were already welling over before she finished the last word.

Travis pulled her in, and she rested her head against his chest. “It’s okay. You’re crying because you’re happy right?”

“Yes,” she wailed, pressing her face into his shirt to muffle her cries. “This is so embarrassing.”

“There isn’t even anyone around. You’re free to cry in peace,” he said.

Bella lifted her head and wiped her tears. “Ugh. I’m so tired of these hormones. I can’t go a day without crying.”

“It’s fine. It’s actually expected during pregnancy. I just read about it this week. Don’t worry.”

She shook her head and sniffed. He’d been reading books about pregnancy, and her heart couldn’t take it. “I’m going to sit in the truck.”

Travis handed her his keys. “I’ll grab you a coat and check out. Give me five minutes.”

“Take your time. I’ll just be filling your cup holders with tears.”

Travis took her hand as she started to walk off. “Hey, are you okay?”

She inhaled a deep breath and took stock of things she could measure. The baby was healthy, she was safe, she was ridiculously happy.

“Yeah. I’m great, actually.”

That earned her a smile from Travis, and he released her hand. “Five minutes.”

“Don’t rush,” she said as she started for the exit. As soon as she got to the truck, she’d check to make sure she wasn’t blowing snot bubbles or walking around with red, swollen eyes.

Bella wiped her eyes again as a tall man strode toward her. Something about his dark eyes, gaunt cheeks, and angular jaw had her steps slowing. The familiarity grew heavier as the man turned and disappeared down an aisle.

Her heart raced, spurring her into action. Her steps quickened as she turned down the aisle to follow the man. He’d stopped to look at shelves stacked with dog food. He was so focused on the bags of feed that he didn’t even turn to face her until she was right by his side.

“Excuse me. I’m sorry to bother you, but do I know you?” she asked.

The man’s mouth turned up into a friendly smile, and all familiarity disappeared. “I don’t think so.” He extended a hand for her to shake. “I’m Jeremy Dodd.”

He was right. They didn’t know each other. Why had she gotten that feeling?

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