Chapter 71: Don’t Deserve You
Rayna’s heart beat in rhythm with the windshield wipers as she pulled into the crowded airport drop-off zone. The air outside was crisp and cool, the kind of morning chill that clung to your skin like dew.
She turned off the ignition and scanned the arrivals area, her gaze bouncing over businessmen, families, and solo travelers. Her fingers tapped anxiously on the steering wheel until she spotted her.
Ruby.
She was standing alone, her small suitcase beside her, both hands cradling her flat belly protectively. Her hair was slightly messy from the flight, and her face looked pale and tired, but to Rayna, she was a sight for sore eyes. Relief washed over her like a tidal wave.
Rayna practically leapt from the car and ran toward her.
"Rubes!" she called out.
Ruby turned, and the moment their eyes met, her expression crumbled. She let out a shaky breath and hurried into Rayna’s arms.
Rayna wrapped her up tightly, careful not to press too hard against her since she knew Ruby was very tired. But even though she was being careful, she didn’t hold back either. "You’re here," she whispered, her voice trembling. "You’re really here."
"I am here," Ruby murmured into her shoulder. "Thank you for letting me come. If not, I would’ve stayed. I really don’t want to be alone."
"You’ll never be alone, Rubes," Rayna promised, pulling back just enough to cup her best friend’s face. "Not as long as I’m breathing. Let’s get you home, yeah?"