Page 64 of Draft Pick

"He's not professional yet," I said. "I still have time."

But did I? Allowing Cason back into my life involved more than just being a cute little family. He wasn't like most college guys — he had a real shot at becoming an NFL star. The thought made me intensely uncomfortable. I didn't like the idea of people knowing my business, leering at my kids, making snap judgments based on the social proof of a photograph blasted online.

I couldn't solve that issue today, so that was going in the pile for tomorrow.

We sat there for a while longer, people-watching and chatting about less weighty matters. Darby's humor and energy were infectious, and for a brief moment, I could forget about the complexities of my situation.

As we packed up to leave, I felt a twinge of nervous excitement about the ultrasound. With Darby's reluctant blessing and Cason's involvement, things were starting to feel more real. More daunting, yet somehow more right.

And it still scared me as much as it felt like a step in the right direction.

I thoughtthe time might drag, but between classes and work, the morning of my ultrasound came more quickly than I imagined.

I awoke to the familiar buzz of my phone, signaling a flurry of messages from my friends in our group chat. They all knew what today was, and their excitement was contagious.

Darby: Just so you know, we do have a pool going on, and money is on the table. I'm Team Blue, and I'm fully committed to teaching my little nephew how to properly armpit burp and charm unsuspecting old ladies into giving him a quarter from their handbags. #teamblue #bestauntie #spoilingismygame

Sloane: Team Pink over here. And a quarter? What is this 1925? It's dolla-dolla-bills, girl or nothing. Also, I'm committed to always being her shopping buddy. #teampink #brandnamebaby #anythingforher

Lark: Got my psychic hat on. It's a girl, I feel it in my bones... or maybe that's just the cold. Either way, exciting! Good luck, Star! #teampink #happyandhealthy #tenfingerstentoes

Evie: Definitely team blue. Myabuelasays that anytime you're craving a lot of salty things, it's a boy and girl, you've been eating chips like the end of the world is around the corner. #teamblue #saltygirl #littleprince

The group chat from the girls made me smile, but Cason's quick good morning text created a flurry of butterflies in my stomach.

Cason: Super stoked for today. Couldn't sleep last night. Practice is going to be rough, but I don't care. It's all about the bean.

I reread Cason's message at least ten times before climbing from bed and showering, humming beneath my breath to dispel some of the anxiety and excitement wringing me into a pretzel of emotions.

I dressed carefully, choosing a loose-fitting dress with a light cardigan that was easy to maneuver but still made me feel somewhat pretty.

Cason had offered to pick me up, but I declined and said to meet me at the ultrasound clinic. I wasn't quite ready to play house as if everything had been decided between us because it hadn't.

Yes, I had deep feelings for Cason — but I was carrying his kid, and hormones couldn't be trusted — and I wanted to make sure I was making the right decision for the right reasons.

Also, every time he touched me, I couldn't stop thinking of how amazing it'd been to be in his arms — and that wasn't a good way to keep my head straight.

So, driving solo was the best answer today.

When I pulled into the parking lot, I saw him standing beside his truck, looking fly as always in jeans, a casual henley that clung to his biceps, and that heart-stopping smile that should probably be illegal. He had that ruggedly handsome model attractiveness yet exuded an approachable charm that was undeniable. Charisma was a powerful thing.

"Ready for this?" he asked as I exited my car to join him.

I nodded, fidgeting with the hem of my dress. "As ready as I'll ever be."

But his gaze warmed as he looked me up and down as if memorizing every detail, and I wished he'd pull me in his arms and seal his lips to mine. "You're fucking gorgeous, Starlie," he murmured as if he couldn't help himself. "I don't know if I'm allowed to say that, but you're, like, glowy and shit. I can barely stop staring."

Right back, atcha, buddy.

"Thank you," I said with a blush, my breath hitching in my throat as his hand found mine, his grip firm yet gentle. It was a small gesture, but it meant everything in that moment. The anxiety riding me only seconds prior dissipated like mist in the sunshine, leaving only excitement behind.

We walked into the clinic, a small building with a welcoming façade. Inside, the waiting room was calm and soothing, with soft colors and comfortable chairs. I checked in, and I could feel the eyes of other patients on us, probably assuming we were a happy couple.

When my name was called, my heart skipped a beat. Cason stood up with me, his presence a solid reassurance. The ultrasound room was dimly lit, the machine looming like a sentinel in the corner.

The technician looked up as we entered, "Starlie Morris?" She confirmed, checking her patient list. When I nodded, she smiled and directed me to the examination table, saying to Cason, "And you can sit right beside her."

I climbed on the table and levered myself down, the sound of the thin paper protector crinkling beneath me.

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