Bayli kicked her legs and waved her arms. “Oh, you too, huh? I knew I liked you for a reason.”
An hour later I found myself standing in Libby’s bathroom staring down at a pregnancy test. The plus sign was like a flashing beacon. A warning sign that kept saying over and over, Pregnant. Pregnant. Pregnant.
The soft knock at the door caused me to jump and let out a gasp. “Grace? Can I come in?” Alex’s voice was soft and gentle.
Reaching over, I unlocked the bathroom door as Alex slowly opened it. Looking over at her, a single tear rolled down my cheek. “Oh Grace. I’m so sorry honey. I thought for sure you were.”
Wiping the tear away, I held the stick up to her as her mouth dropped open and she let out a gasp. Then her smile faded. “Grace, are you not happy about this?”
Nodding my head, I said, “No. I mean, yes! I guess I’m just in shock. Why don’t I feel pregnant? Shouldn’t I feel it?”
Alex took my hand in hers and smiled sweetly. “Oh, Grace honey. I didn’t know either the first time. I think most women probably think they’re sick, just like you did. I’m so happy for you!” Alex pulled me to her as I wrapped my arms around her. Libby walked up and started jumping and pretended to scream. One of the girls must have been asleep.
When Alex let me go, Libby took her turn with the hugging. “Call Dr. Johnson’s office right now and make an appointment. He’s starting to cut back on patients. My mom said he’s retiring this year. Grace, he has to deliver your baby. He’s delivered most of us! It’s tradition!”
Nodding my head in agreement, I pulled out my phone. “Oh wait! I need to tell Noah!”
Well fell into a fit of laughter until Libby put her hand up to her lips. “The girls are both napping. Come on, I’ll grab the monitor and let’s go sit on the front porch. Grace, you can call and make the appointment at least!”
Alex agreed and shoved my phone into my chest.
I spent the rest of the afternoon with Alex, Libby, Mireya, and Bayli. It was one of the best afternoon’s I’d had in a long time. It was full of laughter, chasing my precious little niece and holding Bayli until Alex demanded I give her back.
Pulling my phone out of my pocket, I saw Noah had sent a text.
Noah: Hey babe! I’m exhausted from helping Will and Luke today. Jesus how do they do this whole cowboy shit every day?
Grinning, I hit reply.
Me: My poor baby. I’ll treat you right tonight. Let’s head into Fredericksburg for dinner. I have a surprise for you.