Page 60 of Falling Stars

“Except you have to make sure it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals like BPA or phthalates.”

Jesus, this is a minefield. “How would I know something like that?”

“Look at the labels.” She suggests the brand she got for Ella, and I track it down.

“Great. Thank you.” I’m about to head down the aisle when her next words stop me.

“Don’t forget the nipples.”

I hold up the package of bottles to double-check. “But these already have nipples.”

“Since Leo is just starting out, you might need to get a few different types to make sure he gets one he’ll latch onto. Babies can be picky.”

Damn, this is tougher than I thought it would be. “Leo’s gonna latch like a champ. Just you watch.” I get momentarily distracted, wondering what Baylee’s tits look like. They’re probably a really nice handful. Plump and bouncy.

“Oh, and make sure the nipples don’t contain those chemicals, which are tied to neurological problems.”

Hard record scratch. “This is fucking terrifying, Paige. I don’t know if I’m qualified to shop for babies.”

“Most of the products are safer than when we were little, but it doesn’t hurt to double-check.”

Leaning down, I grab several different packages to study them. “I must say, there is quite the variety of nipples.” I find one that catches my eye. “This one is attached to a bottle that looks like a boob.” I hold up my hand to measure it. “This could easily pass for Baylee’s. It’s about the right size.”

Beau snorts next to me, and I give him the stink-eye. “Don’t you be looking at her tits. You got me?”

He smirks. “No need to piss a circle around Baylee, bro. She’s all yours. I’m gonna go get some socks.”

Paige chuckles in my ear. “Maybe keep the receipt. If something doesn’t work for Leo, you might be able to exchange it for another item he needs.”

“Good idea.” I scan the rest of the aisle. “What about a bottle warmer? And here’s something that sterilizes them. Does she need that too?”

“Those are great, but they’re not mandatory.”

“But they’ll make her life easier?” Because Bay is dealing with a lot right now.

“Yeah, they’re useful.”

By the time I’m done talking to Paige, my cart is full. “Thanks, sister, you’re the best. Do you guys need anything? I can send Beau home with any provisions.”

“We’re good. Austin is feeling better, but Gabe is turning green now. I’m going to make them some homemade soup.”

“I’m sure they’ll appreciate it. Holler if I can help in any way.”

We get off the phone, and then I grab my ice packs and snacks before I track down my brother, who’s chatting up a pretty woman by the home goods area. Which reminds me. Baylee said we needed kitchen towels. I grab a stack and, as I turn the corner, I run into my old football coach.

“Why if it isn’t Maverick Walker.” Coach Taggert grins. “How are you, son? That was a nasty tackle you took last December. Glad to see you up and about.”

We shake hands, and I realize how much better my equilibrium is today. My pain level is down too. “Good to see you, Coach.”

“How long will you be in town? ’Cause I’ve got a new group of kids I’d love for you to chat with if you have the time.”

“You put up with me for four years. I’ll always have time to help your program.”

He chuckles and pats me on the back. “You were a pain in the ass, but ya turned out okay after all.”

I try not to wince from the spasm in my shoulder. “Just text me a day and time, and I’ll be there.”

After I give Coach my number, I track down Beau again. He’s shoving a piece of paper in his pocket and saying bye to thepretty girl. When she sees me, she does a double-take. “Oh my God. Are you that NFL guy?”

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