The Midwife's Christmas Baby. Kate Hardy

she cut in. ‘You really don’t need to buy me a dress, Oliver. It’s a total waste to buy something you’re only ever going to wear to one thing.’

      He sighed. ‘I’m being bossy again?’

      She nodded.

      ‘Got it,’ he said. ‘Will you allow me to drive you to the party?’

      ‘Yes, but only because you know the way.’

      ‘All right.’ His grey eyes were unreadable. ‘I’ll pick you up tomorrow, then.’

      ‘What time do I need to be ready?’

      ‘The party starts at half-past seven, and it takes about an hour to get there. So I’ll pick you up at half-past six.’

      ‘I’ll be ready. Should I have dinner first?’

      ‘There will be nibbles there—but yes, I’d say grab a sandwich or something before I pick you up,’ Oliver said.

      Ella noticed that he didn’t suggest eating together first, and pushed down the feeling of hurt. After all, she’d already accused him of being bossy. He’d probably thought she’d bite his head off if he suggested it. ‘All right. I’ll see you tomorrow then.’

      She watched him walk out of the door. Had he just asked her on a date of sorts? Was he thinking about trying to make a go of things between them, and introducing her to his family was the first step? Or was this some kind of test she needed to pass?

      ‘You’re overthinking it, you numpty,’ she told herself crossly. She knew Oliver didn’t play games. He was simply introducing her to his family. Not as the mother of his child, but as... She didn’t quite know what as, but it was most likely he’d say she was his colleague or maybe his friend. And then, when he’d worked out how his family reacted to her, he’d find the right way to break the news about the baby. It was nothing to worry about.

      ‘We’re going to be just fine,’ she said, resting her hand where her bump wasn’t even visible yet. ‘If they don’t like us—well, that’s their problem, and we’ll deal with it if and when we have to.’