Page 10 of Beards and Babies

As if she can hear my thoughts, that or she just remembered to remind me about it, Daphne stops walking. “Have you thought any more about what I said?”

Reluctantly, I nod.

“I still can’t believe you think I’m good enough, Daph,” I tell her honestly.

She rolls her eyes. “You don’t have to believe me. I have millions of followers who agree with me.”

Since finding out about my baby, I’ve been looking for work. I’m not going back to the bars and working those hours, especially pregnant. Selling my bar was the most freeing decision of my life. I’m a new Robin, and apparently, my custom clothes have become an Instagram favorite.

A very big part of me was reluctant to consider Daphne’s offer to share storefront space at her retail store, currently Whimsical Wedding Gown Boutique, and help me start my own brand on social media.

“How many pieces do you have ready, right now?”

“For sale or pictures?”

“I think people would love seeing every step of your creative process. The video platforms want to see you creating these masterpieces,” she says, gesturing to my homemade maternity dress. It’s purple and teal tie-dye and has pockets. Simple, functional and fun.

“Okay, I can do that. I took some pictures for reference, but I can get a lot better footage.”

Inspiration starts coming to me, and I’m excited to see the sunny yellow door of the big vacation house ahead. Walking is good for me, but currently, I just waddle as sweat drips down my legs. I swear it’s just sweat. I’ve never pissed myself. I did come close when Milo was telling jokes the other night, though.

“Cool, shoot them over, and I’ll edit them all pretty for you.”

“Aw, you’re so sweet. I need to figure out how to do all that, though.”

“True. I could come over later with Ben and Jerry and show you how.”

“I’ll take notes!” I exclaim, loving the idea.

She laughs. “Deal. I’ll text you. I have a shit ton to do first.”

“No problem. Let me know if you want to bail.” I wink, genuinely meaning it.

“I won’t bail!” she yells as she gets farther away.

Waving, I slowly hit the four large steps to get inside and soak in the air conditioning. I waste no time with the keys and hurry inside. Feeling exhausted from growing a tiny human, I head upstairs for a nap.

I’m really looking forward to girl’s night tonight. I should invite Meno. Without hesitation, I shoot her a text. Then plug in my phone to charge.

Tomorrow, on the other hand, is my baby shower, where lots of people will come to tell me how happy they are for me and still ask me who the father is.

Do you really not know?I can already hear the judgmental whispers.

Still, I’m grateful, and it will be a day to remember for the rest of my life. And soon, my child will be born.

Holy shit, I’m going to have to give birth. The thought is so truly terrifying I would normally go into a depression where I binge Netflix and order DoorDash until I feel like taking a shower.

But I can’t do that. I love my baby already, and no matter what happens, I’m always going to do my best by him or her.

The thought of my sweet child brings memories of Soren as I drift to sleep.

CHAPTERSIX

Soren

My stomach groans with hunger, but I was so fucking eager to get off the boat that I didn’t eat. It’s been a gruesome eight months and five days.

I’m confident the film will resonate with viewers and naturally get the exposure it needs to make a difference. Therefore, I still feel good about my decision to clear my calendar. I don’t have any other obligations, and I’m hoping Robin will help me fill my free time.

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