I rest my head on Marcel’s shoulder. “Poor Shelby. I hope someone’s going to take the attention off of her tonight.”
“No such luck. They’ll razz Rooster all night long.”
“She always has a sweet way of deflecting the guys and their little barbs.”
He studies Rooster and Shelby for a second. “Yeah.” He almost seems conflicted but I don’t have a chance to ask him about it.
When it’s time, we hustle to the buffet. Around these guys, it’s grab your dinner early or starve.
While we’re waiting in line, Marcel brushes my hair to the side and kisses my shoulder. “You must be starving after the way I worked you over.”
My skin tingles from his touch. “I am.”
As we’re finishing dinner, Heidi leans into me. “Hang onto my brother for a second, will you?”
“Huh?” I grab my napkin and dab my mouth, but she’s already standing and tapping her fork against a glass.
Shelby slides down in her chair until just her chin’s above the table. Poor thing must be bracing herself for more teasing. I try to give her a reassuring smile but her gaze is focused on her plate.
The chatter at the table barely dies down.
“Fuckers,” Murphy grumbles. He stands and slaps his hands together. “Settle the fuck down. My wife has news to share.”
My lips twitch at the proud note in his voice when he says my wife. Their wedding wasn’t the perfect event they’d envisioned. They were just happy to finally be married.
Now that they have everyone’s attention, Murphy nods to Heidi and takes his seat again. He curls his arm around her legs. “Go ahead.”
“What the fuck now?” Marcel grumbles next to me.
“Shh.” I smile up at Heidi, eager to hear whatever she plans to announce.
She rests her hand over her stomach, and my smile freezes.
Oh, no.
Be happy for them, no matter what.
Don’t you dare ruin this.
“We’re having a baby!” Heidi shouts.
“Congratulations!” Lilly squeals and runs to Heidi’s side.
Sour jealousy I can’t wish away burns at the back of my throat. I’d finally started to forget my loss and feel normal again.
Be happy for them.
Just try to be happy.
Smile. Congratulate them.
I can’t do this. Not tonight. Not now.
I quietly push my chair back.
“Hey.” Marcel grabs my hand. “Are you okay?” he whispers.
“No.” God, I need to get out of here before I start bawling and ruin Heidi’s moment. “Give me a minute.” I squeeze his hand and release it. “Go congratulate your sister. Be nice,” I warn him.