Chapter 121

The apartment was quiet, the TV murmuring faintly in the background while Emma lay curled under the blanket. Her body felt heavy, the nausea lingering like a stubborn shadow. She had just closed her eyes when the sound of the front door opening made her stir.

“Emma?” Ashley’s voice carried through the penthouse, urgent but warm. “Emma, where are you?”

“In here,” Emma called back softly.

A moment later, Ashley appeared in the doorway, slightly breathless, like she had hurried the whole way. Without hesitation, she crossed the room and slipped onto the bed beside her, tucking herself close with the kind of comfort only a friend who cared deeply could bring.

“You scared me,” Ashley said gently, brushing Emma’s hair back from her forehead. “Abigail told us you weren’t feeling good. Is there anything you need?”

Emma sighed, leaning into the touch. “Water, maybe… and honestly, some food. Think we can order in?”

Ashley smiled, relief flickering in her eyes as she nodded. “Of course. But first, let me grab you some water. Then I’ll order whatever you want.”

Emma smiled faintly, the tension in her chest loosening. “Thank you. You didn’t have to rush here.”

“Don’t even start,” Ashley said softly, squeezing her hand.

As Ashley slipped off the bed to head toward the kitchen, Emma sank deeper into the pillows, comforted by the thought that even with Abigail away, she wasn’t alone.

Ashley returned a minute later, a tall glass of cold water in hand, condensation dripping down the sides. She set it carefully on the nightstand before climbing back onto the bed beside Emma. The mattress dipped slightly under her weight, and Emma shifted closer, grateful for the company.

“Alright,” Ashley said, folding her legs under her and giving Emma her full attention. “Now tell me what you’re craving, and I’ll make it happen.”

Emma sat up a little, pulling the blanket around her shoulders. She reached for the glass and took a long sip, the cool water easing her throat. But the moment it hit her stomach, the hunger came back stronger, and she couldn’t help the sheepish grin that crept across her face.

“Okay… don’t laugh,” Emma warned, pointing at her with mock seriousness.

Ashley held up both hands, smirking. “I’d never.”

“Pizza,” Emma started, ticking it off on her fingers. “And wings. And fries. And a burger with a large root beer.” She paused dramatically, then added, “Oooo—ice cream. And… another jar of pickles, because I ate them all.”

Ashley blinked once, then broke into a wide grin, laughter spilling out of her. “Are you planning on sharing, or do I need to order doubles?”

Emma giggled, hiding her face with one hand before peeking out with a mischievous grin. “Of course I’ll share… just not my pickles.”

Ashley let out another laugh, shaking her head as she pulled her phone out of her pocket. “Fair enough. I’ll make sure they throw in the biggest jar they’ve got.”

Emma’s cheeks warmed, her smile softer now. “Thank you, Ash.”

Ashley tilted her head, her voice gentle but teasing. “Anything else for momma and the baby?”

Emma’s eyes glowed, the smile tugging wider across her lips. “Nope. That’s it. I swear.”

“Good,” Ashley said, already tapping away on her phone. “Because that order sounds like it could feed my whole team, and I’m not about to wrestle you for it.”

Emma laughed, resting her head against the pillows, one hand absently rubbing her stomach. “You hear that, baby? Auntie Ashley’s about to spoil us.”

Ashley glanced up from her phone after placing the order, her expression softening as she studied Emma. “Hey… do you want to take a bath while we wait for the food? I can run the water for you.”

Emma tilted her head back against the pillows, considering it for only a second before nodding. “That actually sounds really nice.”

“Perfect,” Ashley said, springing up from the bed. She disappeared into the bathroom, and within moments the sound of running water drifted through the doorway.

Emma swung her legs carefully over the edge of the bed, steadying herself as she stood. When she walked into the bathroom, steam had already started to curl against the mirror. Ashley had added bubbles, filling the air with the faint scent of lavender.

“Here we go,” Ashley said gently, offering her hand to help Emma step closer. She moved slowly, guiding her like she was fragile glass. “Easy does it.”

Emma smiled, touched by the care. With Ashley’s steadying grip, she lowered herself into the warm water. Relief spread instantly through her body, the heat unknotting the tension in her shoulders and easing the nausea just a little.

Ashley draped a soft towel and a robe over the counter nearby, within easy reach. “Alright. You’re set. Just relax.” She crouched by the tub for a moment longer, her voice firm but kind. “And if you need anything—anything at all—call me. I’ll be right outside the door.”

Emma’s chest warmed at the reassurance. “Thanks, Ash. Really.”

Ashley gave her hand a squeeze before standing. “Of course. You just focus on feeling better. I’ve got the rest covered.”

As Ashley stepped out, leaving the door cracked, Emma leaned back against the edge of the tub, letting the heat wrap around her like a blanket.

 The water cradled Emma, warmth seeping into her sore muscles, lavender bubbles drifting around her. For the first time all day, she felt her body loosen, her head resting against the edge of the tub.

Out in the bedroom, Ashley sat on the edge of the bed, pulling out her phone. She chewed her lip for a moment, then tapped quickly, setting up a group chat with Megan and Abigail.

Ashley: Just wanted to give you both an update—Emma’s in the bath, water’s nice and warm, she’s finally relaxing. I’ve got food on the way too. Don’t worry, she’s okay. ❤️

Almost immediately, Megan replied:

Megan: Thanks, Ash. You’re the best. Tell her I said to enjoy it—she deserves it.

Then Abigail’s text came through, the words a little sharper at the edges, like relief had rushed in all at once.

Abigail: Thank you so much for being there. I was worried sick in class. I’ll be home as soon as I can.

Ashley smiled faintly, thumbs moving fast.

Ashley: Don’t stress, Abby. I’ve got her covered. She’s in good hands. You just finish your day—I’ll stay until you’re back.

She slipped the phone onto the nightstand, glancing toward the bathroom where the soft splash of water echoed. Emma’s voice floated faintly through the cracked door.

“You better not be texting them that I ordered half the menu.”

Ashley laughed under her breath, leaning back on the bed. “Too late. But don’t worry—I told them the pickles are off limits.”

Emma giggled from the tub, the sound light and warm, carrying easily through the apartment. For Ashley, it was enough—proof that Emma really was okay.