Jeannie tightened her hold on his hand. “Thank you for knowing what I needed to hear.”
“I got you, love, and we’ve got this. I’m so excited to meet our little person.”
“Me, too, even if I’m not quite ready.”
“You’re ready. You were born for this moment.”
“So were you, because you know just what to say to a panicking mother-to-be.”
“I know just what to say to you.” He leaned over the bed to kiss her. “I’m right here for the long haul, honey.”
The OB came strolling in like he’d just come in from the golf course, full of cocky competence that helped to settle her nerves enough to stay focused on the task at hand.
Ava Joy McBride Wilkinson was born an hour later, weighing in at five pounds, thirteen ounces and measuring seventeen inches. Her elated parents were thrilled to hear that while she was tiny and early, she was doing as well as could be expected and probably wouldn’t have to stay in the NICU for long.
“You’re amazing,” Michael said through tears. “And our little angel is beautiful.”
“She really is.”
“Thankfully, she looks just like her gorgeous mother.”
“I saw you in her, too. You should go be with her. I’ll be fine. I promise.”
“Are you sure?”
“Absolutely. I want one of us to be with her. My mom will be here.” She’d gone to call Jeannie’s sisters and extended family to share the news.
“I’ll be back shortly to check on you.”
“I’ll be here.”
He leaned over the bed rail to kiss her. “Thank you for our daughter.”
“Thank you.”
“Oh please, honey, I did the easy—and best—part.”
She smiled at the lusty face he made.
“Entirely my pleasure. Be back soon.”
“Say hi to Ava for me. Tell her Mommy loves her.”
“I will.”
After he walked out of the room, she closed her eyes and exhaled, filled with gratitude that despite the day’s trauma, she’d safely delivered her baby girl. She couldn’t wait for everything with her.
* * *
“Jeannie had her baby,” Freddie reported as he read a text. “Ava Joy McBride Wilkinson, five pounds, thirteen ounces. Mom and baby are doing well, but Ava will be doing a stint in the NICU to give her time to get a little stronger.”
“Well, that’s a huge relief. Jeannie must be reeling. She thought she had six more weeks.”
“I’m glad they’re both safe.”
“Me, too.” Sam dashed off a congratulatory text to Jeannie and Michael. Let me know when Ms. Ava is ready to meet Auntie Sam. I’m so, so happy for you guys! Much love from all of us!
“Captain Malone, who’s been appointed acting chief in the absence of Farnsworth and McBride, has called an all-hands meeting at three o’clock at Union Station,” Freddie said.
