“I can’t imagine how hard it must be to take care of three littles with no help. What can I do to help?” Addy asked.
“We’re here for emotional support. Carol and Jake stay with her in the evenings. The nanny helps with the morning routine, and we will entertain each other until everyone’s home,” Kassie said, thoughtfully.
“She’s lucky to have friends like you,” she encouraged.
Kassie smiled and snorted. “I’d say it’s the red hair, but then I’d have to admit my own issues.”
Bryanna came over to join them as Lizzy put her hands in the nail dryer.
“Where’s Claire and Gabby?” Bryanna asked.
“They’re baby shopping. The Grans picked them up and will keep them busy while we plan their baby shower. Avie sends her regrets. Deni has strep throat. She took him to see Michael this morning.”
“Oh, no,” Bryanna groaned. “They’ll all get it. It’s spreading at school.”
“The community clinic has only gotten a few cases. Hopefully, it won’t get out of hand,” Kassie replied. “I’ll go wake Catherine. Samantha’s cleaning up her station and will join us for lunch and shopping.”
She walked upstairs, gently knocked on the door, and cracked it open. “Hey, Catherine. It’s time to wake up,” she said, gently rubbing her legs.
“I don’t want to,” Catherine mumbled. “I dreamed Leo returned, and he called out to me. It felt real.”
“He’s probably thinking about you. Did you have a good rest?”
“Yes, I did. Thank you. I don’t mean to act like a bear. My hormones seem to go all over the place. One minute, I’m deliriously happy, and in the next, I feel like I can tear everyone’s heads off.”
“No, I’ve never noticed,” Kassie said exaggeratedly.
Catherine winced. “Have I acted mean?”
“No. You’re pregnant and worried about Leo. We ignore you,” Kassie argued. “If Chase left, you know you’d be the first one at my house. Excepting help doesn’t mean you can’t do it. It means you’re blessed with people who care about your well-being. Leo’s like a brother to me. He knows I’ll take care of you until he returns.”
“I’ll try. Today felt like a gift I didn’t know I needed. I know you said Leo ordered it, but you made it happen. I appreciate you even if I get testy,” Catherine said, rising and hugging her. “Tonight, I’ll thank Leo for thinking of me.”
“Your friends are downstairs and waiting for a nice, relaxing dinner. I’ll give you a minute to dress and meet you downstairs,” Kassie said.
When Catherine arrived, they drove to Ty’s for dinner. As usual, Ty spoiled them with a taste of his new appetizers. He made Catherine a mocktail and poured wine for the ladies.
“Have you heard from the team?” he asked anxiously.
“Leo texted this morning and tried calling Catherine,” Kassie said as she took the broken phone from her friend. “They don’t have your phone in town. One of my men will pick this oneup and exchange it for your new one. I’ve already called the store, and they’re holding one for you and will switch over your contacts.”
“Thank you,” Catherine said, picking up a menu and scanning it. “Everything sounds incredible. What are you ordering, Addy?”
“I’m getting the steak, twice-baked potato, and a kale salad. I might even spring for dessert,” she answered. “Ty’s portions usually give me two days’ worth of food. Chocolate’s a girl’s best friend.”
“Oh, you have the right idea,” Catherine said. “I’m not sure if I’ll remember how to eat without cutting up your food.”
Addy giggled. “What do we want to do about the baby showers?”
“I think they should each have their own,” Kassie suggested. “We can do Claire’s since she’s due first. How about a nice tea party for one and brunch for the other?”
“Claire loves her tea. We can throw her a tea party,” Catherine agreed. “Hopefully, Sparky will be home to attend.”
“Then, we’ll do brunch with Gabby. We can ask Ty to block off the private room and have it there,” Kassie suggested. “Then everything will be nice and fresh.
Tess ran inside and kissed everyone. “Sorry, I’m late. I brought Julie with me. She’s on the phone with Bear.”
“What’s wrong?” Kassie asked.
