Page 98 of What if It's Us

“For you? I think it takes the chanting you refused to do without Betty White by your side.”

I giggle but then wince and grab my stomach. “Ugh. Don’t make me laugh.”

“Okay. How about less jokes. More comfort,” Ledger suggests. He slides onto the couch behind me, gently guiding me to rest against him. One hand on my hip, the other strokes my hair slowly. “For what it’s worth, you’re doing an amazing job making our tiny human. Even when you look like you’re about to punch gravity in the face.”

“Mmm. You're good at this.” My eyes closed, I relish in the gentle respite my body is awarding me along with the tender touch of Ledger’s warm hands. I miss our physical contact. We haven’t been intimate since the night this baby was conceived and even though there is no physical way my body would allow me the luxury right now unless Ledger has some weird type of vomit kink, I miss him.

“You say that now. Just wait until I panic and try to swaddle my hockey stick.”

I snort softly into his chest and then we sit in silence for a long moment, his breathing and an occasional stomach grumble the only sounds in the room.

“You want me to google foods that don’t betray pregnant women?”

“Only if they taste like not throwing up.”

CHAPTER NINETEEN

LEDGER

Marlee has finally drifted off, her body slack against mine, her breathing slow and even. I can feel it through my t-shirt where her face is pressed against my chest. One hand rests low over her stomach, unconsciously protective, as she sleeps.

Even in her calmest state of mind, her brain knows to protect the most important part of her. If that isn’t magic, I don’t know what is.

My phone buzzes on the couch cushion next to me and when I glance down to see who the text is from, a sincere smile slides across my face.

Mom

Hey! How’s Marlee? Is she feeling any better? Do we get to meet her soon? You’re not going to keep her from us forever, are you?

Dad

Jesus Becca, you’re going to scare him away.

Mom

I’m just saying. I want Marlee to know how much she and the baby are loved already. And okay I might want to ask her about baby showers and all things pertaining to my future grandbaby. Eeeeeeek!!

Dad

Ignore her, son. But seriously, is Marlee feeling any better? I know it’s been a rough week. Just want you guys to know we’re thinking about you.

Me

Hey guys. She’s okay but had a rough morning. Hasn’t been able to keep much down. She’s currently asleep against my chest.

Mom

Swooooon. OMG I’m so glad you’re there to take care of her.

Dad

Have you asked her about moving in with you?

Me

Not yet. I was kind of hoping I could get her to feel better first so she doesn’t puke in response to my asking.

Mom

---