“What is it?” Jared said. I could see the hope in his eyes. He wanted this to be an escape, but I couldn’t stomach maternity massages and facials knowing my friends and Sasha’s family were going through hell.

“I appreciate what you’re trying to do. I really do. But this is not a real vacation. We’re hiding out while most of the people I know think I’m dead, and Sasha’s family frantically search for her.”

Jared nodded and squeezed my hand. “That’s the idea, but I’m not pitching a tent on the beach for my pregnant wife. You deserve a little comfort while you’re busy stressing out for everyone.”

“’A little comfort’ would be the Super 8 down the road, Jared. This is a resort.”

“It’s beachfront, and the ocean will clear your head. C’mon.”

Jared checked in while I tried to seem completely normal about the fact that we brought two large full suitcases for a quick getaway. The staff was too pleasant, almost eager that we had arrived. I thought that strange for two reasons: One, Jared called for reservations just a few hours before; and Two, we weren’t celebrities. Their behavior quickly had me convinced that they were shells, and they would attack us at any moment.

“Sweetheart?” Jared called over his shoulder.

I glared at the girl behind the desk. Her blonde spiral curls bounced against her full, pink cheeks. Her warm brown eyes were glazed over with the absolute captivation she felt standing before Jared. I remembered that feeling. Jared was ridiculously beautiful, and his looks and confidence alone must have made them think he was famous in some way. Okay, maybe they weren’t demons with skin, but that girl was still looking at my husband as if she wanted to eat him.

“Just fine,” I said with my best fake smile. Other than watching a colleague I’d known for three years turn into toast before my eyes, I wasn’t sure why I was in such a foul mood. Girls like that behaving in a completely understandable way hadn’t affected me in years. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d rolled my eyes at waitresses or coeds nearly slobbering over Jared. It could be several things, but I was sure my rounding form was the culprit.

Jared returned to me and the luggage. Inside the room, Jared placed our luggage on the mattress, and looked around. The room was spacious and light, not unlike any other hotel room I’d spent time in.

“This is nice,” Jared said.

“Have I ever told you that you suck at small talk?” I smiled. I walked the few steps to reach him, and then pressed my forehead against his chest.

Jared laughed and kissed my cheek. “Yes.”