Before I can pocket the phone, a nurse pushes through the double doors. “Family for Amelia Hayes?”
Catalina jumps to her feet, Carter straightening up beside her. I also stand, my phone still warm in my hand, her name glowing on the screen.
The nurse only says Amelia’s stable, and they’ll update again soon. Catalina wipes at her eyes, Carter leans closer to her, giving her a soft peck, and I sink back into the chair, my phone still heavy in my hand.
It buzzes again.
Layla
Do Tennessee boys actually ride horses everywhere, or is that just in movies?
I huff a quiet laugh, thumbs moving slowly.
Reed
We have trucks. Horses are optional.
Her reply comes fast.
Layla
Damn. I was picturing you on horseback, cowboy hat, riding in to rescue me at baggage claim.
My lips twitch.
Reed
Don’t tempt me. I’ve got the hat.
Three dots appear, then vanish, then appear again.
Layla
Pics or it didn’t happen.
I shake my head, chuckling under my breath.
Reed
You’ll see soon enough.
She responds with a string of emojis—cowboy hats, hearts, a little horse—and then sends another message.
Layla
You know, for someone who claims he’s not sweet, you’re really good at making me smile.
My thumbs hesitate, then I type.
Reed
Guess that makes two of us.
I pocket my phone, feeling the warmth settle deep, when the waiting room doors slam open.
Ten hours pass by in a motionless blur; we have been sitting here waiting for the birth of a new family member.
I twiddle my thumbs, staring at Carter and Catalina. Carter is massaging her shoulders, whispering things into her ear, and Catalina smiles. They’ve been together for four years, and I’ve never seen my brother smile like that with anyone.
