Page 259 of The Baby Bargain

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He leans back in his chair. His shoulders fall from his ears. His jaw softens. "No offense, Chase, but what's that have to do with me?"

"I want to be better. For her."

"Ariel or the kid?"

"Both."

"She's a girl?"

"Too early to say."

"Fuck." He shakes his head in disbelief. "Chase Keating is gonna be a father." His eyes meet mine. His lips curl into a smile. "It suits you."

"Yeah?"

"A lot."

"You don't…" Fuck, I don't know how to say this. I channel Ariel. Go for bluntness. "You don't hate me?"

"Never hated you."

"The other shop—"

"Not like you were hanging out with me at Inked Hearts."

"But if I—"

His eyes fill with understanding. "You like managing Inked Love?"

"I do." I really fucking do.

"It's a promotion."

"But—"

"It doesn't have to mean you're giving up on me."

"I'm not." I run my hand through my hair. "Fuck, this is hard."

"Why do I think I'm in therapy?"

I can't help but chuckle.

"Not gonna get easier when you have a kid."

"I know."

"But you'll be good at it."

"I hope so."

He nodsyou will. "You need the extra money now."

"It's only a little more."

"Still. Gotta save up for private school." His lips curl into a half smile. He's relaxed. Easy.

How is that possible?

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