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Chapter 387
387 The Tangled Web I Weave
387 The Tangled Web I Weave (Winona)
The morning air is warm, streaming through the cottage windows and casting a soft glow on the open plan kitchen and living area. I've just settled Henry on a blanket on the floor, watching as he kicks his little legs and grabs at the toys suspended on the frame above him. I was going to wait for our first night here with Jayden. But seeing as he'll be delayed and the kids pleading got the better of me, we stayed here last night. I don't think I've slept so well since I left the USA.
The kids are running outside, their laughter carrying in on the breeze. Bobby's voice is louder, guiding Sarah and Abby as they try to lure the kitten into the garden for its morning romp.
My phone buzzes in my pocket, and Lisa's name pops up. I answer quickly, holding my voice steady as I watch Henry wave his fists around, his face scrunched in concentration. "Hey, Lisa," I say.
"So, guess what? I've booked my ticket. I'll be there in two days."
Relief floods through me. "Oh, thank god. I really need you here, Lisa."
"I figured as much. And besides, I need to see all this European mansion business up close. How are you holding up?"
I exhale, glancing over at Henry who's still chattering to himself. "It's been a lot. I mean, the kids have been great. The cottage is coming together. But everything else is... complicated."
Lisa's tone softens, though I can hear the spark of curiosity she's barely holding back. "You mean baby complicated?"
"Yes," I say quietly, my gaze drifting over to the kids as they dash by the open door, laughing. "Klara came by yesterday. She's actually... she's Viktor's mother, she's fully trained as a midwife. She also uses organic and holistic natural methods. She works locally as a doula." "Oh?" Lisa's interest piques. "Sounds like the universe sent you exactly what you need."
"It does feel that way," I admit, my voice catching slightly. "She brought a blood test kit, just a simple prick on the finger, but it... it confirmed it."
"Oh, babe. You're really pregnant then?"
"Yes," I whisper, feeling the weight of that word settle on my shoulders. "But Lisa, please... it needs to stay quiet for now. Don't tell anyone, not even Lance."
There's a pause, and I can almost hear her mind whirring. "You're worried about people talking, aren't you?"
It's more that if Lance knows he might try and line up dates and come asking questions before I get a chance to tell Jayden or even know myself. But Lisa doesn't know what happened with Lance.
She's been in love with him forever, but they have never gotten serious really. Lance is allergic to commitment. But still, I'm not sure how Lisa would take the news about Lance being a possibility.
387 The Tangled Web I Weave
1
I hesitate, swallowing down the fear rising in my throat "Yes. I'm waiting on blood test results that will also give me an idea of how far along I am. Once I know... I'll have a better idea if it's Jayden's." "Understood," she replies, her voice steady with reassurance. "I'll keep this zipped tighter than Fort Knox. And as soon as I'm there, you'll have someone to lean on, okay?"
A faint smile pulls at my lips. "Thank you, Lisa. I can't tell you how much I need that."
Even though I'm now essentially lying to her too, even if by omission.
Henry lets out a small whimper, and I look down to see him grasping for a toy just out of reach. I lean over, nudging it closer, and he gives a delighted squeal, waving it around as if he's conquered some great quest. "Henry sounds happy," Lisa says, her tone lightening. "I can't wait to see the kids."
"You'll have as much fun in this huge yard as they will. I don't really have a bedroom for you here yet. But you can stay at the estate and be treated like royalty if you want."
"I'm not even going to feel guilty about that."
I laugh. "I bet you don't."
Lisa's voice softens. "So, you're okay?"
"I'm trying to be," I say, forcing myself to keep my tone steady. "But the worry of losing this baby is constant."
"What did Klara say?"
"That we can do everything we can medically and alternate methods and hope it's enough. To look after
myself and to give this baby every chance in the world.""
"Sounds like good advice."
"I know. But not having Jayden here is a blessing and a curse. I hate keeping this from him."
"But, for your own mental health, it's the right thing to do now. Less stress on your mind and body is what you need."
"I'm so grateful for you, Lisa."
"Well, hold on, because I'll be there soon," she says, her voice warm and encouraging. "And we'll figure it all out together, okay?"
"I hope so."
"I gotta go pack. I'll text when I get on the plane. I have an overnight in Dubai."
"Can't wait. Take care and travel safely."
We disconnect the call.
scoop Henry up, pressing a kiss to his soft head. One day at a time, one hour at a time, one second at a time. I remind myself, as I carry Henry outside to join the others in the fresh air. Time feels like it's standing still. I need it to hurry up and give me the dates I need. I'm not even sure yet
387 The Tangled Web ! Weave
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Later I'll get my diary and work them out. I guess with my erratic periods the best thing I have to go by is hall pass week. But I did have a wild night with Jayden that week too. DNA profile is what I really need.