Crossing Paths

Chapter 17: Baby Boom

Copyright 2014 © Rosesareforever

Crossing Paths

Chapter 17

'Baby Boom'

Much to Jade’s delight, Kate decided to throw another dinner party and invited Sedric and her to join the family. She was looking forward to seeing the woman again. It was always so much fun to talk to Kate and hang out with her. Jade would truly miss the woman when Sedric and she decided to end their relationship. In the little time they’d known each other, they’d formed a pretty solid bond.

“We have an announcement to make,” Kate stated as she got out of her seat and stood up, gaining the attention of the entire party. Michael smiled at his wife, came to stand next to her and intertwined their fingers. Jade watched with interest as the couple nervously glanced around the room. It was clear from the moment they entered the room that the couple had something important to tell. Jade hoped it was good news.

“We’re expecting a baby,” Michael blurted out, lovingly rubbing Kate’s still flat belly as he stared into his wife’s eyes with adoration. Everyone stayed silent for a second before loud applause broke free and whistles resounded throughout the room. Jade started smiling, happy tears pricking at the back of her eye as she watched Emma hug Kate and congratulate her.

“Another grandchild,” Alison excitedly grinned, pulling Michael into an embrace. Hugs were shared, congratulations bid and smiles reciprocated. It was one big happy moment. For some reason, it made Jade feel like an intruder. It was such an intimate moment between family members.

Sedric wrapped an arm around Jade’s shoulder and pulled her against his side. “I can’t believe my baby sister is pregnant,” he muttered, clearly shocked. “I can still remember when she was in diapers herself.”

Jade laughed as she leant into him. “She’s a grown woman, Sed.”

“Time seems to fly. I can’t believe this is really happening,” he mumbled, watching his sister closely. “Before I know it, life will have passed me by.”

The smile across Jade’s lips turned into a thoughtful frown. His comment made her realize they’d both put their lives on hold after their breakup. It wasn’t just her who went through a rough period when they separated. Sedric had had his own problems. She used to think he didn’t care, but the past weeks made her see how wrong she’d been.

“I’m sure that one day it’ll be your turn to inform your family you’re becoming a daddy,” Jade assured.

Sedric looked thoughtful for a moment before he shook his head. “Nah, buttercup, children are not in the cards for me,” he disagreed.

A frown appeared across Jade’s features. “Why the hell not? You used to tell me you’d love to become a dad.”

“I did,” Sedric agreed. “Before we broke up, I wanted nothing more than to become the father of your children. I still do. I just don’t see anyone else being my children’s mother.”

Mouth slightly agape, Jade stared at Sedric in utter shock. Words failed her. She hadn’t expected his honest answer. “It was our dream to start a family of our own. If I can’t have you, I don’t want children either,” he added, worsening Jade’s state of speechlessness. Where was all of that coming from? When did their sham turn so damn real? Friends didn’t discuss these kind of serious topics, only couples did.

Grinning, Sedric took a step closer and whispered in her ear, “Close your mouth, buttercup. You’re going to catch flies.”

Still dumbstruck, Jade playfully pushed against his chest and rolled her eyes. “Who are you and what did you do to Sedric Miller?” she rhetorically asked.