Chapter 22

"Fatima," I said, pulling away from the kiss gently. "You know how I feel about this. Even without Jake, you and I would have never been anything more than friends." My voice was firm but kind. I had thought we’d resolved this months ago, the day I told her I was strictly straight. But I could see now that the feelings she had for me still lingered.

She nodded, her face reflecting disappointment, but also understanding. "I know," she murmured softly. "I just needed to get that off my chest. I didn’t want to die without kissing you at least once," she added with a playful grin, trying to lighten the moment.

I couldn’t help but smile. "You’re not going to die on my watch, Fatima."

She hugged me one more time before standing up. "Anyway, we need to get you some food. You and the baby haven’t eaten all day. You’re practically starving, and I won’t have that on my conscience!" she teased, but there was genuine concern in her voice.

I rolled my eyes playfully but knew she was right. "Fine!