Page 56 of Wild Tangled Hearts

Dina: Hey Bella! I had the baby. It’s a boy! Eight pounds, two ounces. It was a grueling twenty-four hours, but so worth it. You won’t believe how adorable he is! ????

I smile at the news. Dina and I share countless childhood adventures and memories. The thought of her becoming a mom warms my heart. I quickly reply.

Bella: Oh wow! Congratulations! That’s amazing. I’m so happy for you. Can’t wait to meet him.

Dina: Thank you! ?? I know it’s short notice, but do you want to come visit? And, if it’s not too much trouble, could you bring me a bean burrito from Del Taco? Hospital food is awful, and I’m craving something real!

I can’t help but chuckle at Dina’s request. But I only have the energy to do one thing tonight: go out with Jess for our girls’ night or visit Dina at the hospital.

Reader’s Choice:

What should Bella do next?

Girls’ night can wait. Rush to the hospital for some baby snuggles? Turn to this page.

Time to drown out thoughts of Sebastian with Jess and tequila.Make some questionable decisions tonight and visit Dina tomorrow. Turn to this page.

Chapter25

Sebastian

LOST AND FOUND

The hospital room is bathed in soft sunlight as I sit beside Dina, cradling her newborn in my arms. His tiny hands clutch at my finger, and I can’t help but smile as I gaze at him.

“Isn’t he amazing?” Dina says, her voice oozing with love.

“He is.” I grin at her and nod. We’ve been friends since we were kids. Getting married and having babies was something we’d spend hours talking about. And I’m so happy that she’s found her happily ever after. “What are you going to call him?”

“Jason and I are still debating. He likes Axel or Jagger, but I prefer Peter, after my dad.” She rolls her eyes, and continues, “But, apparently it’s too boring, and my husband thinks our son should be named after an aging rockstar.”

“Whatever you call him, he’ll be a charmer. Look at those long eyelashes and those chubby cheeks.” I lean closer and inhale his baby scent, then place him back in Dina’s arms. “I’m so happy for you. You're living your dream life.”

Her smile widens as she looks at her son and nods. “I’m just happy he’s here and healthy.” She glances at me. “What about you? I’ve been a terrible friend. I know nothing about what’s happening in your life.”

A small frown tugs at my lips. It’s been three weeks since I last saw Sebastian. The calls, texts, and flowers continued, but there’s been no effort on his part to bridge the physical gap between us. It’s left me with a gnawing sense of uncertainty, a longing for something more substantial than words on a screen.

It’s time to move on.

“You’ve had more important things to worry about than me.” I place a hand on her shoulder and gently squeeze.

“Any new romances brewing?” she asks.

“Well, I thought there was something, but it turns out my love life is as boring as…”

“As hospital cafeteria food?” Dina interrupts with a laugh.

I nod, chuckling. “Exactly! I guess I’ll stick with my romance novels for now.”

Dina gives me a sympathetic look. “You deserve someone amazing. Don’t settle for less.”

“I might not have found my prince charming, but I’ve got the best friends in the world.” I smile, grateful for her and Jess.

Dina yawns and stretches, looking tired. “I think I could use a nap.”

“Of course. Get some rest,” I say, giving her a gentle hug.

Leaving the room, I navigate the corridor. Hospital layouts can be a maze, and I find myself in an unfamiliar wing.

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