Only his surrogate

Fourty.

Leyton left just after eight that morning.

He had an important business meeting in the city, something involving contracts and investors that I honestly didn't understand and, if I was being completely honest, didn't particularly want to.

His work was his world.

I had my own things.

And we were both perfectly happy keeping those worlds separate.

What mattered to me was that whenever he walked out that front door, he came home safely.

He stood in front of me adjusting his cufflinks.

"I shouldn't be more than a few hours."

I nodded.

"Okay."

He leaned down and kissed me.

"Look after yourself."

"I will."

His hand moved gently over my bump.

"And look after our little girl."

I smiled.

"I always do."

He kissed my forehead before reaching for his coat.

"Call me if you need anything."

"I know."

He paused at the door.

I watched him for a moment.

"Be careful."

His expression softened.

"I will."

"And Leyton?"

"Yeah?"

"Come home safely."

He smiled.

"Always."

Then he was gone.

I watched his car disappear down the drive before slowly closing the door.

I rested my hand against my stomach.

"Your daddy is a workaholic."

A kick answered me.

I laughed.

"I know. I agree."

I had barely made myself a cup of tea when I heard a car pull into the driveway.

I frowned.

I wasn't expecting anyone.

Then there was a knock.

I opened the door.

"Maggie!"

My best friend stood there with two bags hanging from her shoulders and the biggest grin on her face.

"Surprise!"

I laughed as she immediately pulled me into a hug.

"Careful!"

She released me instantly.

"Sorry! I forgot you're carrying a whole human."

"A very active human."

Maggie looked down at my bump.

"Can I?"

I nodded.

She placed both hands gently against my stomach.

"Hello, little bean."

The baby kicked.

Maggie's eyes widened.