Page 33 of Through the Storm

Whistling.

Clapping.

A fulldamn, Katy, turn aroundmoment for every single item.

I don’t know how that man has so much enthusiasm. He’s like a never-ending fountain of happiness.

I’m exhausted.

Now we’re halfway down Main Street, him carrying five bags of clothes he insisted on getting for me. It’s lunch time on a Saturday, so it’s a little crowded and suddenly I’m hyper aware of my baby bump and the people around me. And of how Ben keeps slowing his stride to match mine. Of how his hand hovers near my lower back, ready to shield me if anyone gets too close.

I’ve never felt more spoiled or doted on.

It’s nice. Comforting.

Which is probably why the universe chooses this exact moment toruin everything.

“Katy?”

Oh no.

My college friends are standing clustered outside the coffee shop on the corner, iced lattes in hand, all messy hair and cute workout sets. Girls I used to train with. That I partied with. Girls who knew me when everything was still uncomplicated.

For a second, I consider pretending I didn’t hear them.

But it’s too late. So, I turn around, lift my chin up, and own my shit.

“Oh my God,” Geeta says, eyes dropping instantly to my stomach. “Wait. Are you…?”

Jess gasps. “You’re pregnant?”

The word lands louder than it should, like someone said it into a microphone.

I force a smile, not letting them see a single crack. I will not show an ounce of shame. “Yes, I am.”

There’s a beat. Then all three of them talk at once.

“That’s…wow.”

“I had no idea.”

And then they notice Ben. Ben, whose hand I just realized I’m crushing. He’s standing there, tall and solid, his fingers threaded tight with mine.

Silence stretches.

Their gazes slide to him and linger. Curious and assessing at the same time.

Lena squints. “Is that...?”

The question trails off, but it doesn’t need to finish.

Ben doesn’t hesitate. “Yeah,” he says easily, his hand settling against my back. “I’m the lucky dad. Ben. Nice to meet you ladies.”

The words are certain and proud. Protective. And they feel like a door slamming shut somewhere inside my chest.

“Oh,” Geeta blinks. “Wow. Um… nice to meet you too, Ben. I’m Geeta. I was Katy’s roommate.”

Jess tilts her head. “I’m Jess. Sorry, I just… didn’t realize you guys… reconnected.”