Contents
36. Indy
Overview
Indy and Ryan share a playful, intimate evening that’s interrupted when Kai asks them to watch his baby, Max. Ryan effortlessly soothes and cares for Max, revealing a nurturing side that captivates Indy. The experience heightens Indy’s desire to build a family with Ryan, even as she worries he may not want the same future.
Summary
Indy teases a jealous Ryan by saying she’s going to “Michael’s,” then reveals it’s the craft store, and they settle in to read together. Ryan asks to sample her current romance novel and gets unexpectedly turned on by a steamy scene, sparking a heated make-out before a knock interrupts.
Kai arrives with his infant son, Max, asking for emergency babysitting during a preseason dinner. Indy eagerly agrees. Their plans change, but they accept, and Kai leaves detailed instructions, emphasizing his anxiety about childcare.
When Max begins crying, Indy can’t soothe him. Ryan surprises Indy by confidently taking Max, calming him with gentle singing while continuing to cook dinner. His competence and tenderness impress Indy and draw a few giggles from Max, shifting the evening’s tone from playful intimacy to quiet domesticity.
Ryan feeds Max and lets the baby sleep on his chest, insisting Indy eat while her food is hot. Watching Ryan effortlessly care for Max, Indy realizes she doesn’t just want children—she wants to parent with Ryan. The moment intensifies her hope for a shared future but also revives her fear that Ryan might not want the same long-term family plans.
Who Appears
- IndyNarrator; teases Ryan, reads with him, babysits Max, and realizes she wants a family with Ryan.
- Ryan ShayShows playful jealousy, reads Indy’s steamy book, then tenderly soothes, feeds, and holds Max, revealing paternal warmth.
- Kai RhodesSingle dad neighbor; urgently asks Indy and Ryan to watch his son during a team event.
- MaxKai’s infant son; cries, then settles with Ryan, catalyzing Indy’s longing for a future family.