Chapter 193

I set the compress on the side and lay down beside her. “I’m right here. I’m not going anywhere,” I assure her while I comb my fingers through her hair. Shayla shifts closer and lays her head on my chest, nestling herself into me. I wrap my arm around her, pulling her closer against me, and I press my lips to her forehead.

“I love you, baby.” She whispers with a breathy sigh. I close my eyes and bite my lip.

“I love you, too, sweetheart,” I tell her, and her lips quirk ever so slightly.

“Say it again, baby.” She moans, nuzzling my neck. I smile, shaking my head.

“I love you, baby,” I whisper, kissing her nose, and she smiles content before she falls asleep. I don’t know what made me say those words to her, but it felt—right. It didn’t feel forced or false, which left me somewhat bewildered. I thought I was just telling her what she needed to hear in an attempt to comfort her, but what if, deep down, I actually meant it?

I feel the baby’s movements