Page 116 of Arranged Addiction

He sits forward and takes my hand in his, staring into my eyes. “No more lies.”

My heart skips in my chest. Even after everything, sometimes he can still scare me. Declan’s terrifying and beautiful in ways I’ll never get used to.

“I was going to tell you tomorrow… after I took another test, just to be sure.”

“Casey.”

“It can’t really come as a surprise, right? I mean, we haven’t exactly been careful.”

“Casey…”

“This is good. It’s really good. I mean, I think it’s amazing. And you totally agree, right?”

“Casey!”

I flinch and frown at him. “What?”

“Just tell me.”

I take a deep breath and blow it out. “I’m pregnant.”

He immediately pulls me into his arms and hammers my mouth with a kiss. His eyes are shining with pure excitement. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him like this before. Declan’s not the type of man who shows big emotions, but right now he’s practically brimming with joy.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy in my life. We’re going to have a family together. We’re having a fucking baby.”

“Easy there, big guy. It’s early days still, so don’t go calling your mom or anything, alright? Once we’re in the clear, you can scream it from the rooftops all you like.”

“That doesn’t matter.” He shifts over to my chair and tugs me into his arms. “I’ve got you. That’s what I care about.”

“Do you care enough to stop drinking during my pregnancy? You know, out of solidarity?”

“That’s something we can discuss.”

I laugh and lean into his chest. “God, you’d totally do it too.”

“You’d have to ask very nicely.”

“I always do. But it’s okay. Have your fun.”

“We should get back to the States. You need to see a doctor. We have to be extra careful with you now.”

I shake my head and lightly touch his cheek. “Let’s just enjoy this. The hard stuff’s on the way. But this is good right now.”

He doesn’t seem happy about that, but he kisses me and nods. “Whatever you want.”

“Ah, my favorite phrase. Now how about you order me a mocktail and take me up to your room?”

“Right away, Mrs. Whelan.”

“Oh, nice, I like that. Keep it up.”

“Is there a reward involved?”

“Just my undying love and affection.”

“Good enough for me.”