‘Wow, people really can change their life.’
Spencer smiled. ‘And get better.’
She figured that statement was for her benefit. It did lift her a touch. If this Matt fella could conquer an addiction, surely she could beat her trauma.
‘I knew it was a good idea bringing you in here,’ said Spencer, leaning forward to chink his mug with hers. ‘Here’s to our newest member. You fancy being in charge of the baby bank?’
‘Me?’
‘It was your idea.’
‘But I don’t know how to do what you do.’
Spencer chuckled as he sat back and sipped his tea. ‘You just did exactly what I do here.’
‘I just gave her some nappies.’
‘You showed kindness, Beth. You helped her. That’s all we do at the Hub. Try our best to help.’ He lowered his drink, losing his casualness. ‘But I know you’re supposed to be resting, so I won’t put pressure on you.’
‘Actually, I’ve been having a good day today, and I don’t feel pressured at all. I feel blessed.’
Spencer bobbed his head. ‘Gets you like that.’
‘Do you think I could be one of the helpers? I’m not sure someone with my problems is in a position to help others.’
‘Anyone can show kindness. But you take your time. Ease yourself into the role if you like. I’m not here full-time.’
Beth glanced at the noticeboard. ‘You know, if I went along to the parent and baby group, perhaps I could find out how much a baby bank is needed around here. Maybe some of them could become donators.’
Spencer raised his beverage. ‘I like your style there, Beth.’
And she liked the way he said her name, but that was enough of that. There was a baby bank idea rattling around in her head, and she was sure it wouldn’t disappear any time soon. ‘I want to come to the meeting with your team,’ she said happily.
‘Consider it arranged.’
Archie murmured, and Spencer had her finish her drink while he went to fetch him. He really was showing he’d be a hands-on father, and as she’d never been one to sit around all day twiddling her thumbs, she was glad she had something else to occupy her time.
Spencer came back, a sleepy baby snuggled into his chest. ‘He’s so perfect, isn’t he? Melts my heart each time he looks me in the eye.’
She couldn’t argue with that. ‘I don’t feel I’ve been able to enjoy him, what with being so ill.’
Spencer sat by her side, bringing Archie towards her. ‘Hey, things will change now,’ he said quietly. ‘You’ll see. So, no stressing, okay? And no getting too involved with this place if it’s too much for you to handle.’
Beth lightly stroked Archie’s fine hair. ‘I think it will be good for me, but I’ll speak to Jan first, just to make sure.’ She met the concern in his eyes. ‘I’ll take it in my stride, okay?’
‘You can be a lady of leisure if you want. I’ve got this covered.’
Beth breathed out a small laugh. ‘Sounds lovely, but I’ve always been active. Perhaps it would be best for me to get back to that. Little man here keeps me busy, but mostly tired.’
‘You’ll feel better now you can sleep all night.’
‘And what about you? You’ll need sleep too.’
‘True, but I’ve always been more of a six-hour-a-night, rather than eight, person.’
‘Left to my own devices, I think I’m more nine.’
‘Archie will sleep through the night soon enough, and if you want to be really active, I can always arrange for you to go jogging each morning with Robson.’ He winked, making her laugh.
