“Hey, it’s me.”
Kristie’s mouth went dry. She reached for her bottle on the desk and took a quick swig.
“Kristie, you there?”
“I’m here, sorry.” Kristie sat back, absently rubbing her belly. “How are you getting on? Things going okay at camp?”
“Very much so. We’re wrapped up two days ago.”
“Two days ago?”
“I’m at Heathrow right now. We’ve just landed.”
Kristie thought she was mishearing him. He was already back?
“You’re back early.”
“I thought it would be best, seeing as the Christmas rush is going to make things tough with travel.” Tyler paused. “Can I see you tonight?”
“What?”
“I know the connection can be bad, but not like this. You heard me, Kristie.”
“But…” Kristie felt like her mind was playing tricks on her. “Why do you want to see me?”
“There’s something I’ve got to discuss with you. It’s about the baby.”
Kristie deflated. Of course it was about the baby. Why would it be anything else?
“Oh.”
“You okay?”
“I’m fine. It’s just been a long day.”
Tyler grunted.
“You really should think about lightening your load. It’s going to be tough for you in the coming months.”
“I’m not doing hard physical labour, and if I don’t go to work I’m going to be sitting at home twiddling my thumbs.” Thinking about you. “Don’t worry about me. The baby’s fine.”
“Even so…”
“What time are you coming back?”
“I’ll be home in about an hour.”
“Two hours? I’ll be over then.”
“Okay.” Tyler paused. “It’ll be good to see you, Kristie. I’ve missed you.”
Kristie’s mind went blank. What did she say to that without sounding desperate?
“I’ve missed you, too,” she whispered. “It’s strange without you here.”
“It won’t be for much longer, I promise. By the way, you said something about your parents?”
“Yes. I’m still unsure about how to tell them, or what we’re doing about the baby.” Kristie sighed. “I don’t think they’re going to be too happy with our plan afterwards.”