Page 10 of Curvy Girl and the Bad Boy Cowboy

"Can you feel it? The baby, I mean."

"Not yet. That comes later, usually around five months, they say."

He nods, absorbing this information. "I spent the morning reading pregnancy websites. I had no idea there was so much to know."

The image of Ethan hunched over his phone, researching pregnancy, brings an unexpected smile to my face.

"There is a lot," I agree. "I've been reading everything I can get my hands on."

This was always how it was with Ethan—when it was good, it was so easy. That's what made the hard parts so much harder.

"So, what now?" he finally asks.

"Now..." I take a deep breath. "We figure out how to co-parent. How to build a relationship that works for our child."

"And us?" His voice is tentative. "Is there any chance for us?"

I meet his gaze directly. "I can't jump back into something with you just because of the baby, Ethan. That would be a mistake for everyone involved."

He nods, trying to hide his disappointment.

"But," I continue, surprising myself, "I'm not saying never. I'm saying you need to show me—not tell me, show me—that you're serious about changing. About being someone I can count on."

Hope flickers across his face. "I can do that."

"It won't be easy."

"I know," he says. "But nothing worth having ever is, right?"

I can't help the small laugh that escapes me. "That's such a greeting card line."

"Doesn't make it less true," he counters with a hint of his usual grin.

I shake my head, trying not to let my guard down too quickly, even as something warm unfurls in my chest.

"You've got a long way to go before I trust you again."

"I know. But I'm going to try, Naomi. Really try."

The sincerity in his voice makes me want to believe him. But I've been here before—captivated by Ethan Covington's charm and promises.

"Start with the basics," I suggest. "Be consistent. Show up when you say you will. Follow through on your commitments."

"I can start right now," he says, sitting up straighter. "What do you need? Doctor's appointments? Help with anything?"

I consider his offer. "I have an ultrasound next Thursday at 2 PM. You can come, if you want."

"I'll be there," he says immediately. "What else?"

"Honestly? I could use some help with deliveries. The doctor said I shouldn't be lifting heavy flour bags anymore, but I haven't found anyone reliable to help on delivery days."

"Consider it done. When's the next one?"

"Monday morning, 6 AM."

His eyes widen slightly—Ethan Covington is not known for his early rising habits—but he nods firmly. "I'll be here."

A customer calls out to me from the counter, and I realize I've been on my break longer than intended.

---