Page 93 of Pretend You Love Me

“Me too,” Eli agrees.

I huff.

“Someone died in that house. You have to report that.”

I bite my lip. I don’t want to start crying again.

“Let’s talk about something else.” I’m going to start crying if we continue talking about all of this.

“What should we talk about?” Eli says.

“How about how we’re going to be outnumbered by babies before we know it.”

I laugh.

“It feels that way,” I say. James and Elizabeth have one, and we’re adding two more this year.

“Not if I have anything to do with it,” Eli laughs. “No babies for me.”

Declan fist bumps him. “Yeah. me neither.”

“Yeah. That’s the last thing I need right now.”

“They are pretty fucking cute though.” Eli points over at Vivi, who is running circles around MarryMe, Elizabeth and James’ golden retriever. James gave Marryme to Elizabeth as a part of his marriage proposal, and her name just stuck.

The press secretary, Quinn, walks by with her toddler, Emily, who gives us a smile and wave.

“Oh, that’s hurting my ovaries,” I groan watching her pass.

Eli starts to chase Vivi and tickles her. She’s squealing and laughing. I smile as I watch all of them.

I spot Olivia and Will and walk over to them. I kiss Olivia on the cheek.

“I’m so happy for you guys.” I give Will a hug. I push aside all the worry and the stress I’ve been carrying. This is a happy day for them - for all of us.

Olivia is glowing.

“Your dress is beautiful.” She smiles as she looks down at it. It’s long and flowy, the softest shade of pink.

“Thank you.”

Will’s staring at Olivia like he could explode with happiness.

“It seems like we were just having your wedding here yesterday,” I say.

Liv smiles brightly. “I know. Time has flown by.”

Will takes my hand and pulls me to the side. “You okay?”

“I’m fine.” It’s his day. I don’t want to bring it down, and I am fine...or I will be fine.

“Kip has called me a few times checking in on you.”

I feel my eyes start to sting. Shit. I don’t need to start crying again.

“Sorry.” Will’s eyes look worried. “I wasn’t trying to upset you.”

I nod my head and take a shaky breath. “I know.”