When Constellations Form (Light in the Dark 4)

“How are you feeling?” Nova asks.

“Tired,” I reply honestly. “I haven’t slept in weeks and I just want her to get out.”

She laughs but gives me an understanding smile. “That’s how I was. The last two weeks sucked. You’re miserable, and tired, but so excited to meet them.”

I frown, wondering how it must’ve felt to be her, to be so young, and carry a child for nine months, and then give birth and immediately have to give it away.

That would suck hardcore.

Nova’s a stronger person than I am, because I know that would break me.

The game begins and our idle chat dwindles. I get sucked into the game, and start cheering like a crazy person.

“Woohoo! Come on! Yes! That’s how you do it!”

You’d think this game actually counted for something and wasn’t just for fun.

“Yes! Ahhh!”

“Can you stop that?” Cade asks. “I don’t think all the jumping is necessary, and it can’t be good for the baby.”

“Shut up,” I groan.

Boys are so annoying.

The game progresses, and I start to sweat from all the jumping and dancing I’m doing. I can’t help it, I’m a hyper person.

“Here, drink some water,” Rae coaxes, handing me a fresh glass.

I take it gratefully, sipping at the ice-cold water. I clear my throat, feeling a little pain in my abdomen.

“Are you okay?” Nova asks, her eyes clouded with concern.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” I promise.

I definitely don’t think it’s contractions. It hurts, but it’s not painful, more uncomfortable like a lot of pressure. More than likely this little girl is pushing against my bladder and I’m going to end up peeing my pants again.

“You’re not having contractions are you?” Cade asks. “Don’t fucking lie, sis.”

“You guys worry too much.” I roll my eyes, dismissing their concern, but I notice them all, even Jace, watch me a little closer.

The game continues, and I’m amazed how well the college guys are doing against the NFL team. It’s nice seeing the camaraderie on the field though—the older guys actually stopping to give them pointers. It’s a more relaxed and fun environment.

I stand up, peering out of the glass.

I gasp, feeling wetness trickle down my leg. I look down at the tiny stream dampening my jeans.

My gaze darts to Nova since she’s closest. “Um … Nova, what’s it like when your water breaks?”

“I don’t know, they had to break mine so I think it was different than if it breaks on its own.” Her jaw drops. “Oh, my God, do you think yours broke?” she asks, looking down at my pants.

“

I don’t know. I’ve peed my pants a couple times since the first time and it’s always a puddle, this is … it’s not much but it’s something.” I take a deep breath.

“Are you having contractions yet? We need to time them if you are.”

“I don’t know. I guess what I’ve been feeling is contractions, but I didn’t know.”