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Late afternoon the next day, New Year’s Eve, Lauren, Rick, and Clark arrived. Emmie was amused by how much baby equipment Rick had managed to get into the car.

Emmie had already decided to put Lauren and Rick in the downstairs guest bedroom, where they wouldn’t feel isolated from the baby. She’d already moved her exercise bike and other equipment out of the room and into the garage.

Now, she helped Lauren get settled in the bed. She made sure Lauren had water and snacks on the bedside table and then double-checked the baby in his nursery next door. At night, he’d sleep in his bassinet next to his parents.

“While we don’t want you to overdo activity, it’s important for you to keep moving,” said Emmie. “The bassinet can be moved anywhere.”

“Thanks, Mom,” said Lauren. “I appreciate being here. I can relax knowing you’re able to help.”

“I’m delighted to have this time with all of you,” said Emmie, thinking Lauren looked about ten years old, as she lay her head against the pillow.

“Do you mind if I nap in the library?” asked Rick. The library was where Emmie had a small office tucked into a corner of the room. The leather couch was a favorite place to nap.

“Not at all. I’ll keep an ear out for the baby. You get some rest.”

Emmie stared at the baby equipment Rick had placed on the kitchen floor and decided to leave it there. It could be sorted out later.

She went into the nursery and gazed at Clark, swaddled in the organic blanket she’d bought him. He was sleeping peacefully. She was thrilled that what little hair he had looked as if it might have some red in it, like Earl and Gemma.

Emmie picked up a book she’d taken to Florida and sat in the living room, keeping an ear out for the baby’s cries through the monitor.

She couldn’t help wondering what it would’ve been like to celebrate the New Year in Florida with Ted.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

New Year’s Day arrived with a light snow flurry in the morning and sunshine in the afternoon, brightening Emmie’s spirits as she realized that tomorrow, Monday, she was expected back in the office. Her time off had been filled with a lot of surprises and many emotions.

Emmie called Kate to invite her over for coffee and cookies. It was a tradition they’d shared for years. In the past, while Brad and Earl watched football on television, Emmie and Kate usually enjoyed time for themselves. If any of their children were home, they usually did something together.

“Wouldn’t you like to come to my house instead?” asked Kate.

Emmie grinned. “Okay, I’m feeling a little housebound.”

“See you in a few minutes. And please bring your Christmas cookies,” said Kate.

Laughing, Emmie said, “Will do.”

She ended the call and went to find Lauren and the baby in the rocking chair in the kitchen nook.

“I’m going to do my usual visit with Kate. I shouldn’t be gone long. Anything I can do for you?”

“No,” said Lauren, trying to smile even as tears filled her eyes.

“Sweetheart, what’s wrong?” Emmie asked, going over to her.

“It’s me, the baby, my stitches, feeling like a cow, everything,” said Lauren. “And I’m so tired.”

Emmie rushed to her side. “Why don’t you finish feeding Clark, and then Rick can watch him while you take a hot shower and wash your hair. You’ll feel better then. And if you want to talk, we can. It’s normal to feel this way. Think of all you’ve been through, honey.”

“I guess you’re right. Rick’s mother brought me some attractive, comfortable clothes for nursing mothers, and I haven’t even worn them.” Lauren sighed. “Go ahead. I’ll be okay.”

“Whenever you don’t feel okay, let’s talk about it,” said Emmie, caressing her cheek.

“Thanks, Mom,” said Lauren, and she let out a soft gasp when Clark’s lips curved in his sleep. “A gas bubble.”

“You’re doing a marvelous job with him,” Emmie said. “I’m very proud of you.”