Page 145 of Pretend You Love Me

“Tell him what?” Juno asks, her brow is furrowed.

I shake my head. “He figured it out.”

“Figured what out, Brooklyn?” James says, his eyes are like lasers locked on me.

I scan all their faces for a moment and then sigh, “I’m pregnant.”

Elijust covers his mouth with his hand. James’ eyes grow about six times their normal size. Keene and Juno are exchanging excited glances. James looks at Elizabeth and says, “Did you know?”

“Zadie and I figured it out.” She’s looking at me, not him.

“And you didn’t tell me?” His voice is sharp.

She turns to him. “No, James, it’s not my body. It’s not my secret to tell.”

“Who else knew?” He’s pissed. He hates being in the dark about anything.

“Declan and I figured it out a few weeks ago.” Will says.Olivia looks at Will with surprise.

“Is that why you invited him? James asks.

“He needed to know,” Will says.

No one says anything for a moment, and then James says, “You’re sure it’s his?”

“Positive.”

“Does he know it’s his?”he asks.

“Not yet. We didn’t get that far.”

James just nods slowly and then rubs his forehead.

Zadie steps forward and gives me a side hug. I whisper to her. “Thank you for not crushing my boobs. They are so sore. Hugging feels like an act of war.”

She laughs. “Been there, done that. I haven’t forgotten. That will get better soon.”

“Really? Thank god.”

Eliwalks over. “We’re here to support you in any way you need.”

I nod. “I’m planning to do this. I want this baby.”

Juno smiles. “This is the best news. You’re going to be an amazing mom.”

“We’re all here to help,” Elizabeth says.

They all nod in agreement, and my eyes start to water. I wipe them quickly.

“I need to go,” I nod toward the window.

Declan walks me to the door and helps me get into my coat. “Whatever happens, we have your back.”

He puts my hat on my head and wraps a scarf around my neck.

“Thanks.” I whisper and then head out the door.

The cold immediately takes my breath away. I'd much rather have this conversation in front of a fireplace, but that’s not where he’s decided to stand.