Page 45 of Fierce Hearts

"So," Meredith said as she pulled back, wiping at her eyes. "My brother knocked you up at my wedding. That's one for the scrapbook."

I let out a startled laugh. "Only you would find humor in this situation."

"If I don't laugh, I'll cry. Or possibly commit murder." She gave me a watery smile. "Because I have no idea what else to do."

"Get in line." I reached for the takeout bag she'd brought. "I think I need food before we plot any homicides, and before I have this conversation with him."

"And wine." Meredith reached for the bottle, then stopped. "Wait, you can't drink."

"Another joy of pregnancy." I sighed. "More for you, I guess."

"The universe really has it out for you, huh?" Meredith said light-heartedly, and I sighed.

We needed to try to make light of it where we could, or it'd crush us.

We ate in silence, and I could feel Meredith trying to come up with ideas beside me. But by the time we were done, neither of us had any new answers for this mess.

"This sucks, Sof. I hate not being able to help," she muttered as she stared hard at the unopened wine bottle.

"Just listening and being there has helped more than you know," I said softly. "But I'm going to call Gray now, do this immediately. Like ripping off a band-aid.”

"I can wait until he arrives," she offered. "Make you a hot chocolate or something?"

I nodded, grateful for her presence, even if just for a little while longer.

The doorbell's sharp ring cut through the moment, and Meredith stood quickly. "I'll get it."

"No, wait." My tone was sharp, and Meredith hesitated as I checked my security feed.

My stomach plummeted at the sight.

Ernesto was on the front porch.

"It's my uncle."

"We can pretend we're not here. Maybe he'll leave?" Meredith whispered, but I shook my head.

My car was out front, he'd know I was here.

"Head out the back door, Mer. I don't want you involved in this, please," I said as I rose from the couch.

"Sof—"

"Please. I'll be fine. He's just wanting to talk about the engagement," I assured her. It was the most likely reason, although coming here unannounced was rubbing me the wrong way. Then again, the entire situation was unpleasant to say the least.

"I don't want to leave you with him," Meredith said as she gently grabbed my arms.

"I'll be fine, I promise." I held her gaze steady, wanting her to leave. I didn't want him to see her and know just how important she was to me.

Those green eyes were torn as she stared back at me, but then she nodded.

"Fine, but I'm not going far. Jackson said he was parking in the street, I'm going to go wait in the car with him. You call me or text me, keep me updated. I'm not leaving the area," she said firmly, and I nodded, knowing there was no point arguing. Especially not when my phone started ringing, Ernesto's name lighting up the screen and making my stomach knot.

I gave her a quick hug, waiting for her to head to the back door before I snatched up the takeout food containers and discarded them on my way to the front door.

I took a deep breath, forcing my expression into something neutral as I opened it. I couldn't let Ernesto see my fear.

"Sorry, I was having a nap, had a long day at work and just missed your call," I lied, "Please, come in."

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