“I am stressed,” I admit. “Moving does that to a person.”
Natasha nods sympathetically. “Mr. Tate instructed me to watch out for you.”
“You mean, supervise me?” I ask dubiously. She smiles, and she has a nice smile. It seems sincere.
“Maybe,” she admits. “He doesn’t want you to overdo it.”
“I’m only eleven weeks pregnant,” I tell her. “I’m fine. But if he asks, tell him I rested all day.”
“Should I make you some breakfast?” she asks. “I can bring you some eggs and fruit, if you like?”
“That would be lovely,” I answer. “Thank you.”
I agree with Pax. I don’t like having people hovering about, but having someone cook me breakfast doesn’t suck. Natasha disappears into the massive house and I close my eyes. The first trimester is exhausting.
Last time, I’d miscarried at thirteen weeks.
I have it in my head that
if I can just get past that milestone, all will be well this time. It’s probably not rational, but it’s how I think.
A mover pops his head in. “Miss? I have art supplies. Where should I put them?”
“The loft above the garage,” I tell him. Pax is turning it into a studio for me, only it’s not finished yet. It will overlook the pond behind the house, which should be relaxing.
Hey, you resting? Pax texts me.
I shake my head. Yes. And thank you for putting a spy on my tail.
Hahaha. I have to keep you in line somehow.
Whatever.
I’ll bring you home a burrito from El Loco’s.
I love you, I answer immediately.
I know the way to a preggo’s heart.
I smile. I’m so lucky.
Even now, as I look around the giant formal room with cathedral ceilings and wooden walls, I know that even though I don’t love this house, the opportunities available to us are such a blessing.
I can make this house my own, I decide, as Natasha comes back in with a tray.
“I’m going to be making a few changes,” I tell her as she arranges it on the side-table.
“Oh?” she asks casually.
“Yes. I want to make it homier here. So we feel more… well, at home.”
“That’s understandable,” she answers. “Where would you like to start?”
“Well, I’ll have the designer who is doing my studio come talk to me about it.”
Natasha nods. “Would you like anything else?”
I shake my head. “This is perfect. Thank you.”