Thinking back to life with her dad, she had done most of the housework, worked or gone to school, and organized her dad’s diary.
Archie was an easy baby. As long as he was fed, had a decent sleep, and a clean nappy, he was happy enough. There wasn’t much getting in her way except her mind, and that was improving, thanks to Jan.
She glanced back at Spencer, who was getting the boys to put their gloves back on. Each time she looked his way she felt blessed, but how did he really feel about her? So many times she wanted to delve into the subject but half of her wasn’t prepared for a rejection, so she daren’t step foot in the subject.
A heavily pregnant woman huffed as she walked past Beth on the pavement, rubbing her back.
‘Are you okay?’ Beth asked, approaching her.
The young woman glanced up, revealing a sheen upon her forehead. ‘Just wish I could blimming relax.’
Beth pointed over the road at a bench. ‘Sit there. Take the weight off.’ She accompanied her to the seat.
‘I’ve got another month yet,’ said the woman. ‘I feel fit to burst now.’
‘I remember how uncomfortable I felt towards the end, especially when trying to sleep.’
‘How many kids you got?’
Beth thumbed in the direction of the flower shop. ‘Just the one. He’s four months.’
‘This is my first. Probably last too, going by this pregnancy.’
‘Oh, has it been bad?’
‘I don’t know. I just feel down a lot.’
Beth smiled. ‘I was the same. I thought it was going to be all about glowing and nesting.’
The woman scoffed. ‘Try constant sickness and backache.’
‘I used to see some pregnant women who looked happy and healthy and wonder what was wrong with me.’
‘I know what you mean. If I’m honest, I get a bit upset when I see couples with their kids. It’s just me, you see. I don’t have anyone rubbing my feet or holding my hand, asking all the right questions in the clinic because my mind has gone blank.’ The woman sighed. ‘Would be nice.’
Beth glanced at Spencer, busy planting. ‘Just being able to relax was all I wanted.’
‘Ooh, I’m visualizing water features, palm trees, comfy chairs.’
The room at the Sunshine Centre sprang to mind. ‘I know a place like that. It’s a respite centre. Here, let me give you the details.’ Beth pulled up the website on her phone and showed the young woman, who happily made a note on her own phone.
‘Thanks. I’ll definitely check that place out.’
Beth gave the woman the details for the parent and baby group as well, letting her know she’d be welcome.
Once the lady had caught her breath and left, Beth went over to tell Spencer about her chat with the woman.
His arm curled around her shoulder as he grinned. ‘Beth Horton, you are officially one of life’s helpers.’
‘I’ve been hanging out with you too long.’
His hold on her tightened a touch, and much to her delight, he kissed her head. ‘Best place to be.’
She laughed, nudging his ribs, then went over to help Jax with the planting. It wasn’t just spring in the air, it was in her step too.
Chapter 21
Spencer
