13. Stella

13

STELLA

A few days later I'm back at work, standing in front of my boss as she tries not to glance at my protruding belly.

"I'm sorry, Stella, but your contract won't be extended after next week."

I was expecting this. No one wants the liability of a heavily pregnant woman working for them.

In a job like this, you need to be physically able to carry out tasks like rolling someone over in bed, helping them to the toilet, and giving them a wash down if they're unable to clean themselves. It's why I was good at it. With my large frame, care work suits me.

Jillian has the decency to look sorry for me. But I don't need her pity. I need a job.

"I'll give you a good reference." She pulls something out of her pocket. "And here's a bonus."

She holds out a hundred dollar bill and thrusts it into my hand. "Something for you and the little one. "

The gesture is unexpected, and I sink into the chair. "Thank you."

Tears threaten my eyes, and I blink them away quickly. My hormones are all over the place, and anything makes me well up these days.

"We'll make next Friday your last shift."

"Of course."

Jillian walks away, and I'm left in the quiet of the nurses' station. I lift up my t-shirt and unzip the fanny pack I've taken to wearing and stuff the hundred dollar bill inside. I push down the other bills, mentally counting them in my head and hoping it will be enough for when the baby comes.

The door swishes open and I look up, expecting Terry here for his cleaning shift.

My heart catches in my throat as Will strides through the doors.

His hair is ruffled and stubble lines his chin. He's in his riding leathers and looks like he just slid off the bike.

Our eyes lock, and my breath hitches. He's as breathtaking as I remember—maybe more so seeing him in the flesh.

"I found you." He crosses to the desk. "I've looked all over for you, Stella. I went to see Cleo, but I just missed you, and then she didn't know where you were…"

He breaks off and runs his hand through his hair.

"How did you find me?"

"Cleo gave me the number you called her on last week. Don't be mad at her. I think she wanted some peace; I've been pestering her to give me any news of you. And now I've finally found you."

I've wanted to see Will for so long, to hear his voice, and now that he's in front of me I'm in shock.

I stand up slowly and his eyes run down my body, lingering on my swollen breasts until they land on my belly.

His eyes widen with shock. "You're pregnant?"