Page 49 of Branded Hearts

“Anyway, Liv, where did you even find this place? It’s bloody amazing!” Isla eagerly interjects, changing the subject.

“I know, right?” Liv’s eyes light up. “I found it online at the last minute. Couldn’t believe our luck!”

“It’s perfect, secluded awayandthere is a river! We can go swimming!” Isla says, wrapping her arm around Xav, all giddy.

“Exactly! Now, let’s get settled in. Who’s up for a drink?”

Imogen, Michael, Harrison, and Amelia all chorus their agreement, eager for a drink. With the decision made, we begin to unload our bags from the cars and make our way inside.

As we head inside, I spot Amelia out of the corner of my eye. Her hair’s all windswept, and she’s tucking loose strands behind her ears. While she’s caught up in conversation, I take a moment to really look at her. It’s March, so it’s still warm. She’s wearing denim shorts and a loose white t-shirt tucked in, with ‘AC DC - The Razor’s Edge’ written on it.

AC/DC, huh? Didn’t peg her for a fan.

The band’s a favourite of mine. Growing up, Dad would always blast their music on an old vinyl record player—we still have it. I can almost hear the riffs and feel the nostalgia. I smile to myself, amused by the unexpected connection.

Liv starts unloading the esky and filling the fridge, offering me a beer. I take it, nodding my thanks. The banter continues around me until Imogen calls out, “Alright, what’s everyone else having?”

“Beer for me, thanks,” Harrison replies.

“Same here,” Michael adds.

“I’ll have a cider, please,” Amelia requests politely.

“Isla, what about you? Cider?” Imogen asks.

“No, thanks. I’m not drinking,” Isla responds with a nervous smile.

“You’re not drinking? But I thought you liked cider,” Imogen says, surprised. “Have one drink with me.”

“She said no, Midge,” Xav interjects, his tone firm but gentle.

Suddenly, recognition dawns on Imogen’s face. Her eyes widen, and a gasp escapes her lips. Amelia, standing beside me, picks up on Imogen’s reaction and mirrors it, her hand flying to her mouth in disbelief.

“No way!” Imogen exclaims, her voice filled with excitement.

Isla, now smiling knowingly, nods gently.

“No freaking way!” Imogen squeals, unable to contain her joy. “Are you pregnant?”

Isla nods again, her gaze meeting Xavier’s. He smiles back at her, eyes shimmering with happiness.

“Surprise!” she announces, her hands stretched out in a gesture of excitement, and the room erupts in cheers and laughter. Harrison whistles loudly before clapping Xav on the back. Imogen steps forward, her voice laced with emotion.

“Congratulations! OMG!” she says, wrapping Isla into a tight hug before stepping back, tears glistening in her eyes.

“Hey, what about me? I took part in the conception, too.Multipletimes, must I add,” Xavier says, loud enough for only Isla to hear, but we all catch on to it. Isla blushes, feigning embarrassment.

“Xav!” she says, playfully swatting his arm.

“Didn’t realise you’d become such a softie now,” Imogen teases before wrapping him in for a hug, standing on her tiptoes to reach him.

“I’ve said it before, but I just can’t wait to be an auntie and spoil the little cutie,” my sister says, giving Isla’s small bump a gentle rub

“This definitely calls for a celebration!”she calls out.

“Absolutely,” Amelia agrees, grinning from ear to ear as she gives Isla and Xav a hug. “Congrats, you two!” Her warmth is evident in her words.

“Cheers to the newest member of the gang,” Michael toasts, the group echoing his excitement.

---