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“We really are.”
“How far along are we?” I try to remember the markers with Kimmie, but it’s been so long. “We must be out of the first trimester, right?”
“That’s right,” the technician says. “You’re just over fourteen weeks, and the due date should be around March second.”
“Okay.” I filter through the game schedule in my head. “I can make sure Alex is set up so I don’t have to travel with the team when we get close to your due date.”
“I don’t expect you to do that. I know how important your job is.”
“You and our baby are my top priority, and there’s no way I’m going to risk missing him coming into the world. But we can talk more about that later.” I’m jumping ahead, but I’d been at a game when Kimmie went into labor and I only managed to get to the hospital as Queenie was being born. I don’t want that to happen again.
The technician leaves, and Hanna takes a trip to the bathroom while we wait for her doctor.
The excitement over finding out that we’re having a boy is replaced by anxiety all over again when her doctor arrives to discuss the results of her blood tests.
I take Hanna’s hand in mine as her doctor takes the seat across from us. I feel like I’m holding my breath. I’ve done plenty of reading over the past week, and I’m very aware of the potential genetic complications we might be facing.
As soon as the introductions are done, Dr. Tumbler says, “I have some good news.”
Hanna’s grip on my hand loosens enough that my fingers start to tingle with the renewed blood flow. “What kind of good news?”
“The blood tests have all come back negative for abnormalities.”
Hanna’s hand comes up to cover her mouth, and she turns her head, her cheek pressing against my arm. “Oh, that’s a relief.”
I wrap my arm around her shoulder as she makes a squeaky sound and takes a deep breath.
Dr. Tumbler holds out a box of tissues, and I pluck one from it and pass it to Hanna, who dabs at her eyes.
“I know we’re not out of the woods yet, but this feels like a good step forward,” Hanna says.
Dr. Tumbler nods. “I do think it’s advisable to do further testing in the coming weeks. We can schedule the second part of your integrated screening in a few weeks, but I’m also going to suggest additional blood tests, an amniocentesis, and tests for neural tube defects.”
“Yes. Of course. I want to be as prepared as possible.”
“I’d like to keep a very close eye on your blood pressure, and your sugar levels are higher than normal. Nothing concerning at this point, but something to monitor.”
I ask the doctor as many questions as I can, wishing I could record her answers, because I’m not sure I’m taking it all in the way I’d like to. Once we’ve exhausted all the questions, we head back to reception to make follow-up appointments and set up new ones for blood tests and the next ultrasound. All of which we add to our shared calendar.
We’re also given an envelope with pictures from the ultrasound, as well as a video, complete with heartbeat. We didn’t have these options with Queenie, and I plan to take advantage of every one of them in this technologically advanced age.
“Are you hungry? Do you want to grab something to eat? We could get takeout and bring it back to your place if the smells in a restaurant are going to be too much.” I ask once I’ve helped her into her car and I’m behind the wheel.
“You are honestly the most considerate, conscientious man I have ever met. Do you even have time for that? I don’t think I asked when your flight out is.”
“Not until tomorrow morning.”
“Oh. Well, that’s good. I didn’t realize I was going to get another night with you.” Her cheeks color with embarrassment. “I’m really sorry I passed out so early last night.”
“That’s okay.” I give her hand a squeeze. “I’m happy to be your personal body pillow any night of the week, Hanna.”
She laughs, the tint in her cheeks deepening. “How did that even happen?”
“You pulled me into bed with you and wrapped yourself around me and wouldn’t let go.” I could have easily slipped out from under her, but I wasn’t particularly motivated to leave the bed. Not after the emotional conversation we had and our newly established relationship status.
“I can’t believe I did that.” She holds up a finger. “Well, I can, because you’re a hard man to resist. But I will say, I didn’t peg you for a cuddler.”
“Oh? And why is that?” In all honesty, I don’t think I’ve ever been much for spooning or letting someone use me as their body pillow. But in the past, I’ve always kept some walls up between the women I chose to date and me. It helped me manage my own expectations and theirs. With Hanna it’s different. I want the closeness with her.
