How can someone like Harper not have any friends? The cute and cheery woman I met and instantly liked. How can there be no one else in her life?
I’m not sure if she wants my input or not, but I can’t ignore her comment. “First of all, people are missing out on not knowing you. One hundred percent. And you can always talk to me. I’m here for you.”
Her sigh lasts several seconds. “I don’t want to bug you with my lame life.”
I turn around and sit on the window seat. “It’s not lame.”
“Maybe not, I don’t know. I’m just lonely, that’s all.”
She’s lonely. Why do I want to hop on the next airplane and comfort her?
She’s the mother of your unborn child, that’s why. And because you take care of the people in your life. Exactly like you did with your brother.
“How can I help?” The words rush out of my mouth, but they feel right.
My rigid schedule doesn’t allow a lot of time to see my friends. We’re all busy with training and meets, but I know they’re there if I need them. The thought of not having anyone around feels wrong. I want to be there for Harper.
The sex didn’t make us automatic friends, yet it was incredibly intimate. But I did enjoy the time I spent with her before we went to my hotel room, and we’ve gotten to know each other a lot better ever since she turned up on my doorstep.
There have been lots of conversations and messages. We’ve both invited the other one into our lives, showing a sliver of who we are behind the façade we might uphold in public. Actually, I can’t remember the last time I’ve talked this much with anyone. It’s her, all her.
“I shouldn’t have said anything. Sorry. Ignore me.” Her voice sounds defeated.
Shit.
I clear my throat. “Harper, I really meant it. I’m here for you. We’re in this together, and I’m not going to walk away. You hear me?”
“Yes.” Almost a whisper.
I nod to myself. “I’m here for you and the baby. It’s our baby.”
We’re both quiet.
Fuck it. “I know we talked about this before, but do you really want to stay in New York? I’m not trying to be rude, I swear, but if you don’t have anyone there . . .”
I give her some time to absorb my question. The implication.
Naturally, I’d feel better having her close by. Having both of them close by.
Taking care of them from across the country seems like a major pain in the ass. Could I even be a good dad if I’m separated by almost three thousand miles?
“I could help you find a job over here.” I’m not sure if I’m pushing too much, but I have to try. If she tells me to back off, I will. “You said you have a communication degree and you last worked in accounting, right? That’s a good start to search.”
No one can blame me for wanting to have my baby close by, right? Especially if I also enjoy the mom’s company.
A sniffle comes from the other end of the line.
Oh fuck.
“Harper.” I scrape a hand down my face. I’m such an asshole. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you cry.”
“You didn’t say anything I didn’t already know. I’m just emotional. These hormones are driving me insane. I’ve cried more in the last three weeks than in the last year, and that was including a divorce and getting fired. To be honest, I’m not sure about anything at the moment. But thank you for asking. For caring.”
She’s right. I do care.
“I meant every word I said. I’m here for you. I want to help and hate you’re going through this by yourself.”
“Thanks, Ryan.” She pauses. “This actually helps. Talking to you, I mean.”