I rolled into his chest, his arms wrapping around my body as I buried my face into his neck, breathing in his scent. He was right, I was right where I wanted to be, wrapped in the comfort of his arms on this silent night.
Epilogue
Two Years Later
Cass
Iglanced down at mywatch, it was a little after one. I figured Brody would be here soon as I placed the last book that was in the box on the shelf. My back was killing me. I was so done with being pregnant. Jessica was helping a couple customers out front, so I was going to head to the back and have a break when I heard the front bell jingle.
“Cass, there you are.” May came strolling in the store, carrying her bag of knitting. “I have something for you, dear.” She plopped the bag on the counter and pulled out a beautifully knit afghan in an array of colors.
“May, this is beautiful. Thank you.”
“I can’t stay and chat, dear, but I wanted to drop this off to you while you were still here. That little bundle will be arriving any day now,” she said resting her hand on my belly. As if in response to her, the baby gave a pretty good kick. May let out a laugh.
“I was just going to go have some tea, do you want to join me, May?”
“I can’t, dear. I have a date with my ladies for a knitting class. You should give it a try again.”
I let out a small giggle. “I’ll stick to my writing.”
“Alright, dear, it’s never too late to change your mind.” She waved and headed out the door. I looked down at the blanket in my hands and smiled to myself.
“You okay out here, Jessica?”
“Of course, go on and take a rest.”
“Would you like some tea?” I asked.
“Yes, please.”
I waddled into the back room, put the kettle on, and sat down at the table.
“Cass!” I heard the back door open and Brody’s deep voice call my name.
“In here.”
Brody came strolling into the shop, carrying a small box.
“Hey gorgeous.” He sat the box on the table and leaned down and gave me a kiss, placing his hand on my belly. “How are you feeling?”
“Tired. I’m ready to be done with this. Whatever you do, don't get me pregnant again, okay?” I smiled, kissing him again. “What's in the box?”
“Why don't you open it, it's for you.”
Brody pulled his pocket knife out and cut through the tape, sliding the box over to me. I opened the flaps, and inside sat a few paperback copies of my newest release from my publisher with a simple note. I picked up the piece of paper and read it aloud. “Cass, congrats on hitting the top ten!” Tears flooded my eyes.
“Congrats, babe, she called just as I got home. I knew you would want me to bring this down.”
“I owe it all to you,” I said, taking his hand in mine.
“Nope, you're the one with the talent.”
I heard Jessica call my name from out front. “Coming,” I called.
Brody took my hand and helped me up from where I was sitting and followed me out front, carrying the small box of books. Ray stood on the other side of the counter.
“Ray,” I smiled, “how are things?”