Page 28 of The Ranger
“Thank you, Jesus.It’s like all my prayers are being answered,” I say instead.
There’s a pause, which surprises me.Getting a bite out of Cole is rare.Most of my quips seem to miss the mark.He has this rock-solid confidence, so things bounce off him.
I’m envious secretly.
“If you need anything—”
“I don’t.You can skip this week.You don’t need to be at every single appointment.”I grab a fork from the cutlery drawer and take a seat at our lunchroom table.
“Yes.I do.”Cole says firmly.
I let out a sigh.Mostly at the boring chicken salad, but I don’t clarify.
“Fine.Just so you know, I’m a healthy, independent woman who can fend for herself.You aren’t my husband, so carry on with your undercover whatever.”
Was that a growl?
“Scarlett, can you just for once be normal and...polite or something?”
“No,” I shovel the dumb lettuce into my mouth and chew loudly.
This timehesighs.
“Can’t wait to meet our kid,” he grumps.“Gotta go.See you Thursday.”
His mood cheers me up, so I end the call, smiling.
Then I stare at the phone, knowing I won’t see him until Thursday, and my mood falters.
I hate that I care.
Three days and two hours.
I mean, he’s just a habit.The annoying Ranger has shown up at my house with supplements and food, things for the baby and excuses about doing something to the house or its bedroom almost every day for four months.
I’d be sad in the same way if I didn’t see Cassy for a few days.
No, you wouldn’t.
Jenna pushes the door open.“Um, I think you better come see this.I don’t think a toner is going to fix it this time.”
Fuck.
