“What did the doctor say?” Emily asked.
“That the babies are healthy. That I could deliver as early as next week.”
Another pause. “That's soon.”
“That's what Gabriel said.”
“Gabriel and I agree, then. That doesn't happen often.”
Beth laughed. It was true. Emily and Gabriel had a respectful but slightly wary relationship, two people who cared about Beth but approached the world in very different ways. Gabriel was all warmth and intuition, making decisions with his heart. Emily was logic and systems, needing to understand the reasoning behind everything. They had learned to navigate each other over the years, but it was not a natural fit.
“Have you thought about what I said?” Beth asked. “About coming to stay with us?”
“I've thought about little else.” Emily's voice was measured, careful. “I've made a list of pros and cons. The pros are longer, but the cons are significant.”
“Tell me the cons.”
“I might be in the way. I don't have experience with babies. My social skills are not always appropriate for stressful situations. I might say the wrong thing when you're tired and overwhelmed.”
Beth closed her eyes, picturing her half-sister as she spoke. Emily would be sitting somewhere quiet, probably with a notebook in front of her, her thoughts organized into columns and categories. It was how she made sense of the world.
“Now tell me the pros,” Beth said.
“You need help. I need purpose. We enjoy each other's company. The orchard needs attention, and I know more about sustainable agriculture than anyone else in your immediate circle. Gabriel's father and brother are focused on the furniture business, which means the farm operations are understaffed. I could contribute meaningfully while also being present for the babies.”
“That's a very thorough analysis.”
“I spent two days on it.”
Beth smiled. “Emily, I'm not asking you to come because I need a farmhand. I'm asking because I want you here. Becauseyou're my sister, and I love you, and when my children are born, I want you to be part of their lives.”
The silence on the other end of the line stretched longer than usual. When Emily spoke again, her voice was softer.
“You mean that.”
“I absolutely mean it.”
“Most people say things like that because they feel obligated. Social convention. But you don't do that. You say what you mean.”
“I try to.”
“It's one of the reasons I trust you.” Another pause. “I'm coming. I've already looked up the drive from Vermont. It's approximately four hours. I can be there Saturday if that works for you.”
Beth felt relief wash through her, warm and sweet. “Saturday would be perfect.”
“I'll bring my reference books on infant care. I've been reading extensively, though I understand the practical application will be different from the theoretical framework.”
“We'll figure it out together.”
“Yes.” Emily's voice had steadied, taking on the focused quality it got when she had decided and was ready to execute. “I should go. I need to finish packing and inform my friend that I'm leaving earlier than expected.”
“The one with all the books?”
“She's down to four boxes. I consider it a personal accomplishment.”
Beth laughed. “Safe travels, Emily. Text me when you're on the road.”
“I will. And Beth?”
