hard, okay? I don’t feel different. If it wasn’t for my doctor doing a test before every birth control appointment, we wouldn’t even know.”
“What you need is a list. You always feel better with a list.” She pulls out the phone and goes to her Notes app. “So, pros for staying with Lori in New York.”
“He’s hot—” I start but the answers begin pouring out. “And funny and cool and sexy and kind, which I never imagined he would be. He’s loyal and hardworking, another surprise. He’s generous and loving. And he’s so easygoing. I mean honestly, if it wasn’t for all the drama I brought to the table, he’d have none in his life.” I blush. “Don’t add that. Just put down that I like him. Put a lot.”
“Jesus, you’re broken,” she mumbles as she taps it in. “I’m putting down he’s successful. It’s all-encompassing for his richness and no money worries.”
“Fine.”
“Your kid would have two parents who are present.”
“Right.” I hadn’t given that any thought at all which I think speaks to how not ready I am for this moment. Anyone cocky enough to think they can single parent easily is delusional.
“And if you stay, you get to see me and your friends.”
“Plus, finding a job in the city isn’t that hard. I’m sure Stan’s trying to blackball me but someone would hire me. Eventually.”
“He’s not. He thinks you’ll come crawling back and begging for your job.” She presses her lips together fighting a smirk.
“Really?” The information sends a series of lifeline-style thoughts coursing through my mind. I could go back. I could work for Stan if it meant having a job. I’ve sold my soul once. I’d sell it again for my baby.
“Yeah, he already told me if I get the chance to talk to you about it this weekend, he’d be grateful. I think it’s why he gave me the days off for the wedding.” Sukii shrugs.
“Wow.” A half laugh of disbelief leaves my lips.
“Anyway, moving on because I will get fired if we keep talking about this. Cons?”
“Cost of having a baby in the US.” It’s the first and most distressing problem I have. “It’s free in Canada. And I already have a job in Vancouver waiting for me. I’ll be independent and have medical for my baby.”
“So I’ll just put cheaper and lonely.” She rolls her eyes and taps in the line.
“Hey, girls.” Nat and Bev come in our direction, waving.
“That’s not a strong or convincing list, just saying,” Sukii comments quickly before turning to the girls. “Hey.”
“This place is nuts, huh?” Nat waves a hand back at the mansion. “Lori’s so weird. Like what teenaged boy buys a manor home on Martha’s?” She laughs, shaking her head.
“After seeing that apartment mansion, we should have expected this,” Bev says. “Does anyone know how many houses he has?”
“Nope.” Nat’s eyes flicker to mine.
“Not a clue. I had no idea this existed. He said he had a place we could stay. I thought he meant he rented an Airbnb, not owned the island.”
We all giggle at the idea of it in comparison to the reality.
“Did you see the gardens over there?” Bev points to the far right-hand side of the property. “The cooks have farmers growing all the food for the house. They sell what doesn’t get eaten at a farmers’ market.”
“That’s crazy. Anyway, are you getting excited?” Sukii asks Nat.
“Yeah, I’m feeling better today, so that’s huge.” Nat hugs herself. “How are you feeling?” Her eyes flicker to me in a knowing way. Bev’s lips press into a line.
“Oh my God, you both know?” I accidentally say aloud.
“We do.” Bev gives me a worried stare. “I got suspicious when Lori told me you were destroyed over leaving but still doing it. I assumed you were pregnant with your ex and had to break things off with him. But you showed up at his house. It’s his, isn’t it?”
I nod but say nothing.
“I was with Sami when Matt called her after your brother phoned. Matt isn’t aware I know and thankfully Brady is in the dark. He’s the loose lips that sinks ships around here.”
“He kept Sami’s pregnancy a secret from Matt for a while,” Bev defends Brady, which I’ve never heard before.
“He did.” Nat’s cheeks flush and I’m sure there’s more to that story than I know.
“Sukii!” Cap calls from the balcony. “We’re gonna play some water polo, you guys in?”
“Hell yes!” Bev turns and marches back to the house.
“I’m good.” Nat waves him off.
“Me