16. Casey
Casey
I wrap the sheet around my naked body, blinking back tears.
Derek snuggles up behind me, kissing my shoulder.
When I left Caleb’s place, I went home and showered, crying about the whole mess.
My hand drifted over my flat stomach, a reminder that I had a baby growing inside me once. Then, that was all taken away.
Unable to push the thoughts of Caleb and our lost baby from my mind, I drove to Redbud. I thought having sex with Derek would take my mind off things. It only reminded me that I’m the one putting on a charade.
Somehow, I’ve convinced myself that I can be happy with Derek. That we can have what I lost with Caleb. It’s not the same.
“Derek, we need to talk.”
“I know. I should’ve let you make some decisions for the renovation, but you’re going to love it. They start work on it tomorrow. Brady said it shouldn’t take too long.”
“I don’t know.”
“And if there’s anything else you want to add, you can do it. This place will be yours too soon.”
“Mine?”
“Absolutely. I want this place to be just as much yours as it is mine.”
I numbly nod my head. It sounds like there’s so much more to this than just a renovation. I haven’t even really told him I’m moving in yet. He’s just assumed.
“I’m going to get a shower,” he says and kisses my shoulder again. “Call and order us some food. I’m starved. Then, we’ll go out and get some new things for our trip to Dallas.”
“Right. I almost forgot.”
The Steeles are throwing Madden and Jade a “proper” engagement party this weekend.
Apparently, the gathering at Jack’s wasn’t suitable for them.
Snobby fuckers. They want to have this huge party and invite a shit ton of guests.
I’m certain Jade hates that idea, Madden too, but they gave in with the understanding that their wedding will be planned the way they want it.
Derek and I haven’t even talked marriage. He’s asked me to move in, so I don’t doubt that he has marriage on his mind, but I’m not so sure I see that for us. Maybe I should try. If I can figure out a way to give Derek my whole heart, there’s a chance we could be happy.
Then again, a boy told me once he was keeping me forever. He still holds a piece of my heart. I’m not sure how to get it back.