Page 62 of Blood

“Could be Shelby.”

“Maybe”—I shrug—“but she’s been busy lately. I’m not sure what’s going on with her.”

“Oh, she’s fine.” He grins.

I raise a brow.

“She has a man,” he explains, leading me to the car.

“Why do you know and I don’t?” I ask offended. She’s my best friend.

“Because I’m more observant. She’ll tell you when she’s ready.”

“Do I know him?”

“My lips are sealed,” Kaleb declares, miming zipping his lips and throwing away a key.

“I wish,” I huff, earning a laugh and a firm squeeze to the nape of my neck.

I fidget the entire way home. Having had enough, Kaleb grabs my hand.

“Everything is going to be fine. We’ll officially meet the baby, cement our positions as favorite aunt and uncle, eat, drink, and then head back to the cabin. We’re going to have a good evening.”

His words help me relax. Of course it’s going to be okay. It’s our family.

As soon as we park, I pull my hand from his, earning a hurt look.

Cringing, I step out of the car quickly.

“There are my babies,” Mom greets warmly. “I didn’t expect you to arrive together.”

My stomach drops, and I feel myself pale.

“I picked her up.” Kaleb saves us, settling his hand on the small of my back.

“You didn’t have to do that. Your dad or I could have swung by Shelby’s.”

Shelby’s?Oh, right, that’s where they think I’m staying.

“Is Shelby, okay? I worry about her, especially with her asking you to stay with her. Maybe she should move in with us permanently. That way, she won’t be alone.” Mom worries.

“Shelby’s fine, Mom.” Kaleb smiles, leaning in to kiss her cheek. “What food do I smell?”

Instantly distracted, Mom leads us into the kitchen, where most of the family waits.

“Baby,” I quietly squeal, my worries and insecurities about Kaleb and me forgotten.

“Wanna hold him?” Charlie offers.

I cradle him carefully, “He’s perfect. Look at that little nose.” I melt. “Kaleb, do you see him?”

“I see him,” he whispers. Stepping in close, he presses the front of his body against my side, his right arm wrapping around my shoulders as he peers down at our nephew. “He’s beautiful. Takes after his mother of course.”

“Of course,” I agree like it’s the most obvious statement ever.

Everyone chuckles.

“How are you doing?” Kaleb asks, moving around the kitchen to kiss Charlie’s cheek.