Caught in the Crossfire {Jayden Shiba/ Troy Burrows}

Chapter 19

Leigha's POV

"Okay! This party is going to be so much better than the one we threw a month ago," I say as Mike and Kevin hang up the banner.

"I think so too," Mike grins.

Lauren and Mia are putting the presents out, and Jayden and Emily are working on securing balloons. Jii and Antonio are back at the Shiba House with Daisy. The room looks great. I hope this party goes better. I stick the cake in the fridge. We've got a lot of fun things planned including swimming with the dolphins.

"Looks great," Jayden wraps an arm around my waist.

"Thanks," I smile slightly.

I lean back into his arm and close my eyes. Suddenly a wave of nausea overtakes me. I throw his arm off of me. I grab my purse and then run into the bathroom leaving a confused Jayden alone.

"Le-"

I shut the door and lock it behind me. I rush over to the toilet and throw up. I take deep breaths and lean my head against the cool stainless door. There's a knock on the door.

"Leigha? You okay?" Jayden asks.

"Yeah. I'll be right out," I call back.

I stand up and flush the toilet. I go to the sink and wash my hands and mouth. I grab a mint out of my bag and pop it in my mouth. I hold onto the cool marble and try to cool off a bit. A few minutes later, I look into the mirror. I pull out my concealer and touch up under my eyes where my eyes were watering badly. I take deep breaths and then put my lipstick back on. After I look okay, I head back out.

"Are you okay?" Jayden immediately walks over. He gently holds my arm and searches my face. I can see the concern in his face.

"Yeah. Just a little queasy," I explain.

"Okay," he nods and kisses my cheek.

From the way Lauren and Emily are looking at me, I know they want to talk. I set my purse back down and walk over to my sister-in-law and friend. I smile at them.

"What was that?" Lauren asks.

"I don't know. Just got really hot. Didn't feel too good," I shrug, "but I'm okay now."

"You've been working hard," Emily guides me to sit down before walking away.

Lauren feels my forehead, "you feel a bit warm, and you're flushed."

"Here have some water and crackers," Emily come over.

"Thank you," I smile at Emily.

"Sure you're okay?" Jayden comes over and kneels down next to me. He takes my hand and gently rubs his thumb over my hand.

"Mhm," I nod.

"Just a little over worked," Lauren says.

"Nothing we can't fix," Emily smiles.

"If you're sure," Jayden looks at me.

"Positive," I nod.

"Okay. Jii just called, and they're on their way. I'm going out to greet them."

"Alright," I smile.

"I love you."

"I love you too," I lean up and kiss him.

He kisses me back and then walks away. I smile as I watch him walk away. I take a drink of my water and eat some of the crackers. I close my eyes and lean my head back.

"You okay?" Kevin asks as walks over with Mike.

"Yeah. Just a bit tired," I nod.

"You've been working hard," Mike assumes.