Page 139 of The Even Odder Couple

“Aww.” Emi sighs. “We really miss you too.”

Ugh.I don’t want to get all misty-eyed again, so I rush to change the subject. “What’s going on with the house?” Even as I ask this, my insides twist. This subject is hardly any better. In fact, it’s probably worse.

“That’s another reason we wanted to talk to you,” Emi says.

“And why we’re still awake.” Nash frowns. “Even though we should be in bed right now.”

Emi flicks her eyes to him. “Because it’s not an easy decision.”

“We got into a kind of bidding war type of situation,” he says. “Multiple offers on the table.”

“And that’s good, right?” I ask. “It means you’ve got options?”

Nash nods. “We do.” Now they both look at one another, tilting heads. Communication without speaking.

I chew the inside of my cheek. “And?”

“And.” Nash keeps his focus on Emi. “My beautiful wife is having trouble pulling the trigger.”

“I’m just not sure it’s the right time to sell,” she says.

“Wait. What?” My heart leaps into my throat. “You’re … keeping the house?”

They both turn toward the screen. “Emi’s afraid we might not be ready to make things permanent in DC,” Nash says. “But I toldherI was ready the minute I found out she was moving. Working remotely is great.” He reaches for her hand. “And I’ll go anywhere. Live anywhere. As long as we’re together.”

“My husband’s devotion is duly noted,” Emi says. “And he knows I feel the same way. But if we keep the house in Apple Valley, just a little longer …” She takes a beat. “You could live there, right?”

Nash glances at Emi again, and my stomach plummets. They’re the kind of people who’d hold onto a property they don’t need just to make things easier for the friend who’s already living there.

That’s me. I’m the friend.

I swallow hard. “Please don’t keep the house on my account.”

“Oh no,” Emi adds quickly. “You’d be doingusthe favor. Giving us a more time to figure out next steps.”

I sigh and shake my head. I’ve been way too obvious about how much I miss them and how much I love their home, but I can’t let my friends sacrifice for me. I’m strong enough for a fresh start, and I’m not afraid of change. I’ll find another plan. Aspontaneousplan.

And I’ve got Spencer on my side.

“What’s to figure out, Em?” I scoot higher up on the hospital bed. “You’ve got your dream job at the Smithsonian. You’ve got your dream husband.”

“YEAH, she does,” Nash quips.

“You’ve both been so happy there,” I say. “Why would you even consider leaving?”

Emi bumps Nash. “Can we tell her?”

He bumps her back. “Absolutely.”

She breaks into a grin. Her face is glowing. “We’re having a baby.”

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