NOAH
EARLIER
“Hey, Tyler,”I say, searching for him around the gym.
“What’s up, man?”
“I gotta see my parole officer next week. Is it okay if I take a half-day Tuesday?”
“Yeah, no problem. Just let Smith know.”
“Will do. Thanks, man.”
After Katie’s and my risky rendezvous in the back, I haven’t stopped smiling. Though we were together just an hour ago, I already miss the fuck outta her and can’t wait to see her again.
“What’re your plans this weekend?” Gemma asks as we pack up.
“Fuckin’…” Tyler responds before I can.
“Babe!” Gemma scolds him. “As happy as I am they’refinallytogether, I don’t need that image in my brain!”
I chuckle, shaking my head. “We’re watching a movie with Owen tonight, then I’m gonna help her with the house tomorrow and Sunday. Hoping to help more so she can get done sooner.”
“But still fuckin’.” Tyler laughs, dodging a hit from Gemma.
“Well, I did tell her to get pregnant soon so our kids can be the same age,” Gemma muses, and my heart races at the thought of Katie carrying our baby. After she told me about her miscarriage, we’ve grown closer than ever, and I love that she trusted me with that information. I’m not sure my sister knows, so I don’t say anything.
“You’re gonna scare the shit outta him now,” Tyler tells her. “Good thing I got you that big box of condoms.” He smirks.
“You didn’t!” Gemma’s eyes widen.
Tyler shrugs, then looks at me. “You’re getting a free preview of the pregnancy hormones. You sure you wanna go through this?”
“Alright, time for me to go.” I snicker. “You two have a good weekend.”
Gemma hugs me before I leave, and I wave at Tyler before walking out to my truck.
Just as I start the engine, my phone rings, and Brittany’s name pops up on the screen. Considering she’s gone out of her way to confront Katie at work, now’s a good time to make it crystal clear that I’m not interested in her that way.
“Hey,” I answer.
“Noah? Oh thank God. I’ve called ten people already, and no one’s answered. I’m so sorry to bother you, but I can’t find anyone else to help me.” Her strained tone concerns me.
“What’s the matter?”
“Anthony and I were about ten minutes from Mobile when my SUV started shaking. I pulled over and realized my tire is completely flat. I forgot to get a replacement spare the last time this happened, and now we’re stranded. I called a tow truck, but they can’t come for two hours, and it’s almost pitch black out, so I don’t want to wait out here with my son. Is there any chance you’d come and pick us up? I’ll pay you gas money and for your time,” she rushes her words out, and I can tell she’s freaking out.
“Not necessary. I just left work, so I can head that way now. What road are you on?”
After Brittany gives me directions, I call Katie and let her know I’ll be late.
“She can’t call a tow truck? Or someone else?” she asks, and I know she’s not any happier about this than I am.
“She said she tried but was given a two-hour window, and she doesn’t want to sit out there in the dark. No one else answered, I guess. She’s with Anthony and doesn’t have a spare,” I explain.
Katie releases a sigh.
“Alright well, just please be careful. Text me when you’re on the way back.”