by Leaona Luxx
“Two, maybe three times over the past few weeks.” I try to get as close as possible, I’m a little concerned. If it was nothing, surely he’d just say it.
“While you were out, we ran a few tests. Sounds about right for your progression.”
He pauses too long, and in unison we say, “And.” We glance at each other then back to him.
“Oh, no. It’s fine, nothing unusual. It usually happens early in your first trimester.” He continues to make notes. Brannon’s hand starts to sweat, and I’m beginning to wheeze. The doctor looks up and then back to writing as he says, “Breathe, Mrs. O’Hurley.”
“Umm, could you say that again?” Brannon leans in, as if to understand him better.
“You’re pregnant, about eight weeks. I’ll be giving you a referral. You’ll also need those stitches out in a few days, small but deep, so no glue. Do you have any questions?” Doctor Luther asks. Turning to Brannon, I smile.
Brannon and I are staring at each other. He holds my hand as his other lays across my stomach. “I think we’re good,” Brannon replies while smiling at me. The doctor leaves the room, explaining a nurse will be back to give me papers for my release.
We continue to hold hands as we walk out of the emergency room doors, happy and dazed. Our family and friends assault us, checking on me. One and Lea, Hardy and Thayer, Maisyn and Lachlan, Joyce and Andi, even Ava. Turning to see whose hand Andi is holding, I see my mother. My father is standing behind her.
“Hey, y’all. Just quick because I know you need to get home and Torrie’s parents’ need to see her. She has a few stitches and nothing abnormal on her tests.” He looks over at me, love spilling from his eyes. “Dizzy spells are normal for the first trimester.” Gasps are heard, then the squealing begins.
“Oh, you’re pregnant?” Thayer screams. I nod as I watch Brannon with his infectious grin plastered on his face.
“Congratulations,” One bolsters as he shakes Brannon’s hand. We’re passed around the room with hugs and kisses until I get to my parents’. I’m quiet, afraid.
“I hope to be here for the birth of this one, please,” my father says to me.
“We would love for you both to be here,” I say to him as he hugs me.
“Come here, baby.” My mother hugs me, kissing me on the cheek. I’m just flabbergasted.
“Excuse me, I’m not trying to stir trouble, just wanted to give something back to you.” Ava hands my father a folded piece of paper. We look at it and then to my father.
He waves his hand, shaking his head. “How about we give it to Andi, grandparents love to invest in college.”
“I think that’s a wonderful idea,” my mother adds.
Ava looks at us, questioning, “Brannon, will you?” He nods, taking the check. I know it wasn’t easy for him, but he’s trying as hard as my father is, I love them both for it.
“Alright folks, I’m taking my wife and sister to eat before we have a riot, join us?” One announces.
“Please, I’m starving,” I say with big eyes and as if on cue, my stomach growls.
“That’s a hard yes,” Brannon laughs as Andi joins us.
After dinner, we invite my parents’ to the farm to visit. They accept to my dismay, following us in their chauffeured car. We sit on the porch, enjoying the evening together talking. Brannon and I discussed my father’s offer of me running Harrington Holdings, but I declined. We’re making our home here in Shallotte.
With me being pregnant, traveling would be hard; besides, I don’t think it’s for me. Brannon’s going to continue to work with One and his company. He’s offered me a job if I decide I’d like to work after the baby comes. take Brannon hand, Andi sits on his lap.
Ten years ago, Brannon and I started a love affair we promised would last forever. Little did we know it would take us this long for love to guide us through life. Changes altered our path, and through those changes, we grew. Our family, finally together, continues to grow and flourish. All because a country boy loved a country club girl. Turning to Brannon, I look at the man he has become, falling in love, all over again. Brannon stares into my eyes, as I gaze in his, I’m drowning in love. “I love you,” he says to me, in which I reply, “Forever.”
May love never end, let it always be…the beginning.
To my readers, thank you for taking a chance on a nobody. I appreciate your time and value your opinion. Without people like you, I wouldn’t be on this amazing journey of discovery and recovery. Discovering who I am through words you are reading and recovering from the world that can be so cruel. Your love and support of me can never be repaid, thank you.
Bloggers, bless y’all’s heart. My sincere apologies for always being late. Thank you for not giving up on me and for always taking your time to offer an author an opportunity to become a favorite. I say it all of the time, how you do it is beyond me.
For the Love of Pimping, Calling All Books, Reading is Our Passion, Naughty Smut Readers, and Sassy Book Club; thank you for your undying dedication to me and my journey. I can never repay you and will forever be indebted. I love you ladies like my own.
The Bottom Turners, hell yeah! I love you ladies. Thank you for being the kinda ladies that are ride or die. Without you by my side, life would’ve not only kicked me but kept me down. Without you, I wouldn’t be here. Thank you for all do to help me or show me love. I love y’all.
Masque of the Red Pen, I’m in awe of you. The dedication and understanding you’ve shown me know no bounds. I wish everyone could see what an amazing person you are. Your professionalism goes beyond the norm and your encouragement to see a fellow indie succeed is selfless and heartfelt. Thank you for your hard work and dedication.
Silla Webb, thank you for being my friend. Kicking my ass as well as I do. For pushing me to grow. And teaching me how to do that. Many things have changed from six months ago, yet you remain. I love you.
TE Black Designs, I can never thank you enough for your vision and talent. Taking your time to make sure I have the utmost service and care but for also, listening to my wants and needs. I love you.
Enticing Journey Promotions—Ena and Amanda, y’all are ass kickers. Thank you for having patience and supporting me along the way.
Cassy Roop, your talent goes beyond the pale. Thank you for having an eye to create such an amazing photo.
BT Urruela, thank you for gracing my cover. Most importantly, thank you for your service to our country. My father was also a veteran; I know it goes beyond coming home. Once a member you always serve.
My Beta’s, thank you for taking time away from your lives to help me live this dream. I can never thank you enough. And Stacey, thank you for always being here. For reading my books when they’re crap. And helping me become a better me. I love y’all.
My Alphas: Mel, Christine, Sallie, Diane, Joyce, Robin, Robyn. Thank you, ladies, for your time and love you show me. Never a complaint, always willing to drop everything to help. I love each of you, dearly.
Stacey Atwin, you’ve had my back longer than anyone, I couldn’t ask for more than the love and acceptance you give me. No one could have a better friend. I love you.
Sallie Miller, I love you like my own. I’m thankful for your love and friendship. You mean more to me than you’ll ever know. Thank you.
Diane Norwood, thank you for always being here. For having my back. Making me teasers and sale pictures. If I needed it, you did it. Your friendship means more to me than I can ever find words to express. I love you.
Christine Strongi, my friend. My sister. My love. What would I do without you? You came in like a storm and blew me away with your love. Thank you for all you do, never change. Love you.
Mel Osborne, you are more than my pa, you’re family. I love you more than you will ever know. Thank you for always shooting from the hip, pushing me beyond my own set boundaries and for believing in me. I can never repay you for all you do or for what you’ve meant to me. I love you.
My girls: Court, Desi, and K
at thank you for always believing in me and encouraging me. I love like you’re my own and I could not be more proud of the amazing women you are.
My boys: Bub, Josh, and Zack, I love you.
Mom, your love and support goes beyond the pale. Thank you for teaching me how to be a strong, courageous woman. I love you.
LU…. Your undying devotion and love blows me away. My strength lies in the look in your eyes when you tell me you love me. You give the best hugs. I love you. You and me, against the world.
Daddy, I miss even more today than yesterday. Thank you for being the type of father I didn’t deserve. For having my back and teaching me how a man should treat me. For showing me, not all men screw it up. And for teaching my husband and boys, how real men act. I love you. Tink.
Leaona lives in southern WV with her husband and fur babies. Mother of three, she enjoys spending time with her son's and daughters in law. Football one of their favorite pastimes.
Leaona was inspired to write while she raised her family, never dreaming one day, she would be published. While loving all genres of books, Lea writes contemporary romance stories. Gritty and true to life, her stories are not your everyday romance tales.
Leaona's debut novel will release June 22, 2016. Cherry Grove is the first in The Cove Series. She loves to connect with her fans via social media. Leaona also doesn't mind dishing about her favorite authors and their books.
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