The Coaching Hours (How to Date a Douchebag #4)(84)

Did I tell you your mom reached out to me? You should have warned me! Not that I mind because I don’t—of course not. She called and was so sweet it made me cry (everything does lately, so that’s nothing new, haha). She asked a bunch of questions about myself, how I felt, and wanted to know when she could meet me. I’ve never been so relieved after a phone call in my entire life, Elliot, I almost passed out, holding my breath when I heard the sound of her voice. She introduced herself as Baby Gramma, LOL. Seriously, she was so funny and nice. So, thank you for giving her my number. I’d hug you right now if I could.

When do you come home? I hope the weather cooperates.

I worry about you each and every day.

Miss you so much (and that’s not just the hormones talking),

Your baby mama





Elliot,



I had lunch with your mom and sister, Beth, today. Did they tell you? God, I was so nervous. I may or may not have been sick in the bathroom before leaving the house (Spoiler alert: I vomited). Why do you suppose I was more panicked meeting your family than I was telling my dad? I wasn’t even as scared to tell you, but I freaked out when I arrived at the restaurant and it took forever for me to walk inside.

That’s weird, isn’t it?

We met halfway between your hometown and Iowa City, at a cute little diner. Your mom held me and we both cried before we sat down at the table. I ordered breakfast for lunch and a white soda to calm my stomach then just picked at my food—I WAS SO NERVOUS!!!!

Your sister rubbed my stomach a million times and must have called me ‘adorable Anabelle’ at least a dozen. Your mom tried to take a few selfies and I wonder if she sent them to you.

They brought me a couple gifts, which made me all emotional. A pretty cream-colored baby blanket and a onesie with little yellow ducks. It was so sweet, Elliot, and I think your mom would like to come with me to a few doctor’s appointments. They feel horrible that you’re so far away, but we all agree it’s the best place for you. It was reassuring to know they’re going to be in my life from now on, too.

The more pregnant I become, the more sentimental I am, wanting to be surrounded by people I love and care about. I crave it more than I crave hot chocolate with whipped cream! Madison and Rex and my parents, and now your mother and sister, too.

Speaking of my dad—he’s calling practice early tonight and coming jogging with Rex and me around campus, which we’ve been doing so I can stay in shape. Don’t worry, my doctor said exercise is the best thing for me. **wink** Anyway, Dad found out I’ve been going and offered to come along. I don’t know how far he’ll be able to jog without passing out, but he’s going to try.

He has a newfound respect for Rex and as odd as it is, they’ve become friends. I think he likes having another guy around the house when we drop by.

I’m counting down the days until your Christmas break.

Anabelle





Anabelle



“Thanks for coming over tonight and fixing this leak. Madison and I really appreciate it. You know how I hate calling my dad—he hates that I’m living here, and I don’t need him thinking it’s such a dump he makes me move home.”

Rex’s feet stick out from under our sink, handing me the wrench he used to tighten the pipes in the kitchen before hauling himself out and to his feet.

He has a black smudge on his face and I reach out to wipe it away with my thumb.

“How did you get so messy? That’s where we keep all the cleaning supplies—how can it be dirty under there?”

His fingers gently grab hold of my wrist, kissing at the sensitive skin there before releasing it. “Don’t worry about the mess, Donnelly. The sink is fixed and you can run the faucet without it leaking.”

Whoa. That’s the first time Rex has shown any type of physical affection for me, always keeping a safe, respectable distance.

“The plumbing shouldn’t give you any more problems, but if it does, I’m not leaving to head home for Christmas until tomorrow. You need me to do anything else, you call, okay? Change a light bulb or something? I’m your guy.”

I laugh. “That we can do ourselves. Normally I would have tightened that bolt, too, but with this bump getting bigger, I wasn’t taking any chances under the sink. I probably would have had to call the fire department to have them come save me.”

“You’re so fucking cute pregnant.” Gunderson surveys me while running the water, scrubbing his hands clean.

“You think so?” My long, dark hair is shiny from the prenatal vitamins, thick and lush, falling over my breasts in silky waves. Skin? Flawless.

“Yes, Anabelle.” He glances at me, absentmindedly wiping his hands dry on a towel. “You’re definitely one of those women who can pull off the sexy preggo look.”

Women.

Not girl. Not chick.

He sees me as a woman.

It’s been ages since anyone has told me I look sexy or complimented me on my appearance, and I miss it. It feels wonderful.

“Hey, Anabelle?”

I glance up at Rex, who’s leaning against my kitchen counter in jeans and an Iowa wrestling hoodie, head cocked to the side, looking young and hopeful. Adorkable, if I’m being honest.

“Yeah?”

“Have you ever thought about, you know…me.”