Chapter 79
Ben, August 3
Emma could show up any day now. Liz’s doctor says we’re officially in the “any time” zone, which sounds exciting until you realize it’s mostly just a lot of waiting around. Hurry up and wait—that’s fatherhood’s prelude, apparently. Some days it’s enough to drive a bloke mad.
A sharp knock interrupts my thoughts. I set down my current read—She’s Having a Baby and You’re Having a Breakdown (thanks, Mum)—and cross Liz’s apartment. Cute little place, but tiny. One bedroom, small kitchen, single story. I can make it from sofa to front door in about eight strides, and I’m not exactly a giant.
On the other side of the door is a tall, thin woman in a sharp suit, heels clicking, hair perfect. Definitely lawyer material.
“Good morning. Ben, is it?” She offers her hand before I can answer. “Michaela, Liz’s lawyer. She said to drop these off. You’re expecting them, I presume.” Her words spill out so quickly I barely catch half of them. Before I know it, there’s a sealed envelope in my hand. “Please give these and my regards to Liz.”
“Right. Will do.” I’m halfway through closing the door when she snaps me back.
“Mr. Smith?”
I pull the door open again. “Ma’am?”
She slips me a card. “In case you ever find yourself in need of a family lawyer. I also handle adoptions.”
She winks, heels clicking away down the steps. I stand there like an idiot, staring at the empty stoop, the envelope heavy in one hand, her business card in the other.