Page 8 of Hugo
“Oh, God.” I tuck the phone next to my ear and use my elbow to push through the doors. My hands are busy carrying shopping bags. “She said she wouldn’t arrive until later.”
“It’s fine,” Hugo says. He lowers his voice a little. My mom’s clearly in the same room and he doesn’t want her to hear. “Although, I was hoping to have you all to myself for a while. Before the party.”
“Me too.”
I manage to get my car keys out of my purse. The alarm beeps as I press the key fob. The trunk opens on command. I unload all the presents and then straighten my back.
It’s been a busy day. But it’s going to be worth it.
Our baby girl, Clara, might only be turning one year old today, but that doesn’t mean we can’t spoil her.
“And you’re looking after yourself?” Hugo asks. “I don’t know why you had to go and pick the stuff up yourself. That’s what assistants are for.”
“Yes.” I roll my eyes. Hugo’s concern for my health is touching, but a little over the top. “Besides, I’m only a few months pregnant. I’m perfectly capable of making a trip to the shops.”
“And you wanted ice cream?”
“Yes,” I admit.
“But we have ice cream here!” Hugo laughs.
“Does it have chocolate chips and cookie dough in it?”
I hear the freezer open. A draw being pulled out. “No,” he says. “It’s strawberry swirl.”
“I rest my case.”
“Ok,” he says. “I love you. I can’t wait to see you. Drive safe.”
“I love you too.”
I put the phone back in my bag and get in the car. I turn the ignition. The stereo starts playing. I pull out the tub of ice cream I just bought and find the spoon I brought from home. No point in waiting until later to quench my cravings.
The first bite is delicious. The second is heaven.
I close my eyes and lean my head against the seat rest. My tummy isn’t that big yet, but I put my fingers over it and imagine the little baby growing inside me.
The last year and a half has been the best time of my life. I can’t believe how lucky I am to have found a man like Hugo.
I remember what it was like to stand in front of all my loved ones. My huge bump covered in a beautiful, handmade white gown. The man of my dreams standing before me with a ring in his hand and a smile on his face, and the only thing between us was a pastor telling us we’re married.
Soon we'll be bringing another little human into this crazy, mixed-up world. And I can’t wait. As long as I have my man by my side, I can do anything. He’s the best thing that ever happened to me.