Page 19 of Love Unexpected

Chapter 18

Emma

Two excruciatingly long months drag on at a snail’s pace. Each day blends into the next, which is likely because I spend my time binge-watching one show after another from the comfort of my own bed. The universe finally aligned, and someone had an opening in their schedule to fix my heat. I have a suspicion that Noah pulled some strings to get me out of his brother’s bachelor pad quicker. Regardless of how it happened, I’m grateful to be in my own space again.

Since leaving the hospital, Marcus has become my best friend, stopping by almost every evening with dinner. I thought there might be a little bit of distance between us after he learned the baby wasn't his nephew, but to my surprise, our bond has only deepened. Marcus’s attention has been a welcome distraction in my life right now. His friendship is the only thing keeping me from falling apart completely.

Returning to work will be good for me, I need to keep my mind busy and I’m looking forward to the distraction. However, I’m not looking forward to seeing Noah again. The thought fills me with dread. My heart is still mending, and I know the minute I see him, all the old wounds will reopen.

I hurry through a quick shower and throw on my coziest sweats and a hoodie, ready for a relaxed evening. Tonight is movie night at Marcus’s house since I am still couch-less, and I've been looking forward to it all day.

Barging in through the front door, thanks to the spare key he gave me, I enthusiastically announce my arrival. “I’m here! I’ve got popcorn for both of us and ginger ale for me!”

“It’s about time! Throw that popcorn in the microwave and come sit.” Marcus presses play on the remote once I settle in beside him on the couch.

Only fifteen minutes into our romantic comedy, the unexpected sound of the door swinging open jolts me upright. Noah walks through the house unannounced, carrying his favorite—a bottle of whiskey. He’s wearing a large grin on his face until he spots me, and his smile instantly disappears.

“Oh, I didn’t realize you had company. I can come back another time. It’s good to see you, Emma.” His gaze lingers on me, pausing briefly on my growing belly. I pull the blanket up to cover myself given the sensitive topic, and I feel a blush creeping up my neck.

“No! You should stay. This is your brother’s house, I’m the one that should go. I'm going to finish this movie in my bed,” I insist, my voice a bit more forceful than I intended. I start to get up from my spot on the couch, taking slightly longer than normal, my body reminding me of its limits.

Marcus's voice cuts through the awkward tension, making me stop. “SIT,” he commands, his tone leaving no room for argument. “Both of you.”

Noah and I exchange a look, and an undeniable tension crackles in the air between us. What was just a fun, light-hearted atmosphere has now shifted into something awkward. Noah's eyes hold a storm of emotions I can't read, making me feel uncertain.

“Seriously,” Marcus presses, “y’all need to stop being so weird. Come watch this movie with us, brother. It’s hilarious.”

Reluctantly, Noah takes a seat on the middle of the sofa, Marcus and I on each end. Settling back on my end of the couch, I will myself to relax, but my heart refuses to calm down with Noah sitting so close.

“What’s the whiskey for?” Marcus eyes the bottle skeptically.

“Oh, right. I figured we could celebrate because Mr. Adachi sent over the signed contract. The project is official and will kick off this week!” Noah's excitement is palpable.

“Hell yeah! We definitely have to celebrate that!” Marcus shouts, springing up from the couch. “Let me grab us some shot glasses,” he calls over his shoulder as he strides towards the kitchen.

I watch him go, devastated he left Noah and I alone. We haven’t been in the same room together since my stay in the hospital two months ago.

“Well. That is awesome news, Noah. I am so happy for you,” I say genuinely.

But his expression shifts, growing serious. “It wouldn’t be happening if it weren’t for you. I haven’t forgotten that.” His gaze drops to the floor, a hint of vulnerability breaking through. Marcus comes back into the room with the shot glasses, saving us from the awkward silence.

Marcus takes the bottle of whiskey from Noah and pours three shots, seemingly forgetting I can’t drink. Handing each of us a glass, he cheers, “to Mr. Adachi and his unlimited bank accounts.”

We laugh and raise our glasses in unison. “To Mr. Adachi,” we repeat together. Marcus knocks back his shot. Just as I’m about to set mine down to the table, Noah reaches over and grabs it from my hand. Winking at me, he downs it in one swift motion, his eyes never leaving mine. My heart flutters. I've missed him so much. With a satisfied grin, he takes his own shot and, to my surprise, says, “One more round!” He promptly pours two more glasses, handing one over to Marcus.

After a third round of drinks, Marcus resumes the movie and we watch in comfortable silence. That is, until we get to the most awkward sex scene. No one says a word or moves a muscle. It feels about as uncomfortable as watching a movie with your parents.

Unexpectedly, Marcus bursts out laughing hysterically. ”Okay can y'all make this anymore awkward for me?” He asks in between laughter. “And y'all tried to convince me you two didn't fuck,” he continues, chuckling. His amusement only amplifies my embarrassment.

"Marcus!" I shout, my cheeks blazing with heat. I reach for the pillow separating me and Noah, and hurl it at Marcus. It misses and smacks the open water bottle out of Noah’s hand into his chest. Horrified, I watch as the cold water splashes his face and drenches his shirt.

"Oh my God, I am so sorry! Let me get you a towel." I jump up from the couch. This time I’m able to move quick on my feet.

"Nice aim," Noah says sarcastically, glancing down at his shirt clinging to his chest. "This is a bit too soaked for just a towel."

With a playful smirk, he unbuttons his shirt, revealing his smooth, beautiful skin, and tosses the shirt aside. He settles back on the couch and covers himself up with part of the blanket I was using, completely unfazed. Glancing out of the corner of his eye, he catches me ogling him.

"Now are we ever going to finish this movie or what?" he teases. The mixture of embarrassment and attraction leaves me speechless. Luckily, I don't have to think of a reply as Marcus presses play on the remote.

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