Page 15 of Stepping Into Tomorrow

She nodded, emotion clogging her throat. “I appreciate it. I know this can’t be easy for you either.”

Phillip’s eyes grew glassy before he cleared his throat. “I made a promise to him that I’d do what I could to help you both out. I’ll always be here if you need anything. And I’d like to stay in Eli’s life as an honorary uncle if you’re comfortable with that.”

She swallowed. “I know Eli could use a man to talk to. And I know you didn’t get much time with Robert, but I saw how much he loved you. You gave him what he needed most.”

“You are an amazing woman, Isabella. Truly exceptional,” Phillip said.

She shrugged and forced a laugh. “Someday I hope to find a straight man that thinks the same.” Although that will have to wait seeing as I may have much bigger things to worry about first—like a possible baby.

He gave her a wink. “You will.”

* * *

Isabella walked up the stairs to Tessa’s apartment on shaky legs. All she wanted to do was crawl into bed and sleep, just shut the whole world out for a little while. But she didn’t have that luxury. Her son was counting on her. And maybe one more. Her throat closed with the rising panic spiraling through her.

She shook her head, trying to rid the thoughts. It was girls’ night. One of her last before she moved. Tonight, she wanted to focus on enjoying time with Tessa.

Isabella stepped in front of her friend’s apartment and drew in a deep breath, forcing a smile she hoped was believable on her face before she knocked.

The rumble of Roy’s voice sounded behind the door. After quite the epic show in the tattoo shop last week, Tessa had left almost in tears and Roy had closed the shop to chase after her. Now, it seemed they were inseparable. She was a little jealous of her friends, but happy for them just the same.

Isabella knocked again. A girlish squeal came from behind the door before Tessa opened it.

Her friend’s smile was bright as the sparkle in her eyes. “Hey, chica, I just need to grab my bag.” Tessa’s eyes narrowed, brows marring with concern as she grabbed Isabella’s arm and pulled her into the apartment. “Are you okay?”

Guess my fake smile isn’t as convincing as I’d hoped.

Bella glanced at Roy who was eagerly devouring what looked like a grilled cheese sandwich by the counter.

“Just pretend I’m not here.” He turned his back on them, heading towards the fridge.

Tessa closed the door and focused on her. “Is it Eli?”

Bella shook her head. “No, Eli’s fine. Nothing’s wrong. I’m just tired. Haven’t been sleeping well.”

Because I can’t stop thinking about the what-if.

“You still feel like going out for drinks? We can stay in and order food, watch a sappy movie.”

Isabella grimaced. “I don’t think drinks are a great idea.”

“Is something wrong, or is it from the challenge of packing Robert’s things?”

Isabella chewed on her lip and dipped her head. Tessa was the one person she could tell and know she wouldn’t be judged. But admitting it out loud was almost as terrifying as thinking about it. “I’m late. Really late.”

“You’re . . . oh.” Tessa’s eyes widened to saucers. “Oh! Shit. Did you take a test?”

Bella shook her head. “I’ve been too chicken. But I made a doctor’s appointment for tomorrow. If it isn’t that, maybe something else is going on. Probably better to just get some bloodwork done.”

“Right . . . Would it be the guy from the wedding?”

Bella nodded. Tears burned her eyes. She sniffed. “It has to be. Nash is the only one I’ve been with—but we used a condom.”

Tessa pulled her into her arms. The physical support of her friend brought a wave of comfort to Isabella.

“Condoms aren’t bulletproof. But maybe it’s just stress?” Tessa offered.

Isabella shrugged and pulled away. “I’ve never been late other than when I was pregnant with Eli. Maybe. I’ll find out tomorrow.”

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