Page 44 of Love Me Again

"I figured as much," Blake nods in understanding, leaning back in his chair. "Look, Shayla, I remember how alone I felt after I lost Demi. I don't want you to get the wrong impression of me because my intentions aren't wrongful, I promise you. I think having someone in your life who understands what you're going through, who is also a single parent, will be good for you." He explains, and I shift in my seat.

"I'm sorry. I'm a little confused. What are you saying, Blake?"

Blake chuckles a little and rubs his forehead, "I'm saying I'd like us to be friends. If you ever need any adviceon baby stuff or just to talk even. It can be very overwhelming as a new parent, especially if you're doing it alone, as I did."

I sigh, relieved. I thought he was asking me out for a minute. That would have been awkward.

"That's really kind of you to offer Blake, and as much as I'd like to be friends with you, I don't think it's wise for professional reasons."

Blake shakes his head, "Don't worry, I'm mature and grown enough to keep my personal and business life separate, I promise you." He chuckles a little. "I'm not asking you out or anything, don't worry. Once you have the baby, maybe we can go out for coffee sometimes, or you can join me in the parent-toddler classes. They are accommodating, and you're going to need all the support you can get, trust me." He goes on to explain as our food arrives and we eat. I listen as he tells me all about his struggles as a single parent, and I'm not going to lie, I was terrified. Blake advised me to sign up for Lamazeclasses, which I had no clue about. Ittruthfullyhit me hard how unprepared I was for this baby.

"Oh God, that's a lot of information to take in over lunch," I utter, setting my fork down, feeling extremelythunderstruck. Blake smiles at me and reaches over, squeezing my hand supportively.

"Hey, come on, you're going to boss this. If you need any advice about anything, just call me, and I'll help where I can, all right?"Blake assures me sweetly as I stare at him, feeling more lost than I ever have in my life.

As I sat there listening to him whileinternallyfreaking out, all I could think was—damn you, Tristan Cole Hoult.

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