Mr. Right Now: Vol. 5: New City. New Club. New Begininngs Read Online Free PDF Page B

him. He doesn’t say a word as he turns to leave the store and walks back toward the hotel. It’s only a few short blocks, but now he regrets sending the limo back. He thought a short walk would help clear his head. But Cole didn’t intend on his body trying to shut down on him.
    His head begins to spin as the pounding pain builds to an all-new high. A nauseated feeling attacks his whole body, and his stomach lurches. Cole clutches his head as he slides down on a bench, but his hands shake violently. Rapid-fire colors flash in his eyes, everything goes dim, and then brightens to a blinding hue.
    “Cole?”
    He tries to look up, but can’t force himself to do so.
    “Cole, answer me.”
    Again he tries to acknowledge the person speaking to him, but can’t focus. Another calm voice joins the first one.
    “Cole, it’s Jax. You have to look up at me.”
    He tries to form the words ‘fuck you,’ but only a long line of jumbled speech escapes him.
    “Cole.” He feels a palm strike his cheek, and he finally looks up. “What day is it?”
    He focuses in on Birdy and the tears streaking down her cheeks.
    “I’m calling 911.”
    “Yes, do,” Jax barks out as she grabs Cole’s wrist.
    “Don’t touch me.” He’s shocked at how clear his words come out. The pain in his head subsides a bit.
    “Cole, are you okay?” Jax kneels down before him and places both of her palms on his knees.
    “Why are you here?”
    “Answer my question, Cole.”
    He just nods. “Now, answer mine.”
    Before Jax has the chance to reply, a group of giggly women joins them. Several of them surround Birdy, asking question after question about the reason for her tears.
    “Cole.” Jax uses her palm to turn his face back toward her. “What’s going on?”
    He doesn’t respond as he relishes the sensation of her flesh on his, and the pounding pain that begins to fade away.
    “You’re not okay. Birdy called 911, and Dax is on his way. Let me help you.”
    He clenches his eyes shut and forms the words he thought he’d never have to speak. “I’ll be okay. Get back to planning your wedding with the man of your dreams.”
    “What did you say?”
    “You heard me, Jax. Leave me alone and get back to your fiancé. Mission accomplished by coming out here and flaunting the fact you’re getting married.”
    A deep voice cuts through the growing crowd. “Where is he?” Dax pushes his way to Cole. “What the fuck is going on?”
    “Just a headache, man. Get me back to the hotel.”
    “No.” Jax stands. “He needs to go to the hospital.”
    “Dax.” Cole looks up to his brother. “Hotel now.”
    His brother looks between Jax and his crying Birdy before he grabs Cole by the elbow and escorts him over to the black Hummer. “Get in.”
    Cole climbs in the back seat and waits while Dax practically carries Birdy to the Hummer and places her in the passenger seat. Once settled in, Dax turns back to Cole. “Listen, asshole. Birdy is two months pregnant and has been bleeding. The doctors think we might lose the baby. We don’t need your fucking egotistical ass causing more stress in our lives.”
    Birdy’s soft sobs fill the cab of the Hummer as Dax focuses on driving. Cole leans forward, wincing in pain, and places his palm on her shoulder. “It will be okay, little Bird.”
    “You should go to the hospital.” Birdy turns to look at him. “You were a mess when we walked up on you, and Jax thinks it could be something serious.”
    His blood begins to boil with the mere mention of her name, but he fights to control his emotions. “I’m fine. It’s just a migraine. I need some rest.”
    “You’ve been working your ass off, Cole, and dipping into extracurricular activities too much lately.” Dax stares at Cole through the rear view mirror.
    Cole keeps his mouth shut, not wanting to fight in front of Birdy.
    “Tell me more about you being pregnant, missy. I thought I was your best friend.” Cole pats her shoulder one more time