Page 47 of Slap Shot Surprise
Sorry, Mabel! We shouldn’t make jokes. Are you feeling okay?
Yes. I’m fine, just a little morning sickness, and I don’t even mind the jokes. If I couldn’t laugh about this, I’d lose my mind.
Lexi
So he was supportive when you told him?
Yes. Shocked and upset, but supportive.
I just hope my brothers don’t take his head off when they meet him.
Kelly
Your brothers will come around. Xander loves hockey. Once he gets over the stupid NO ONE PUTS HIS HANDS ON MY LITTLE SISTER thing, I’m sure he’ll be fine.
Veronica
Austin has NO ROOM to talk. The same thing happened to him with the twins. And everything was fine.
Ari
I keep telling her she’s going to be a great mom. And she’s notalone.
Kelly
^^^THIS
Lexi
100%
Veronica
Buckley women FTW
Thanks, guys. Love you.
Later that evening, I also got a text from Julia.
Hello, sweetie. I have been thinking about you nonstop. I know you have your dad and your brothers and all your wonderful sisters-in-law, but if I can be a comfort to you, don’t hesitate to reach out. I know I am not your mom, but please know that I am here for you, should you need anything. A hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on, a cheerleader to tell you you’re doing great. Because there’s no doubt in my mind that you will. You are smart, strong, caring, and patient. We love you.
A lump formed in my throat, and I closed my eyes, giving myself a minute to deal with all the feelings whirling through me like a tornado.
Julia, thank you so much for the kind words. I know I will be reaching out to you for all those things. I appreciate you more than you know, especially because you make my dad so happy. I hope I find what you have someday.
Darling Mabel, I’m sure you will. Love often takes its time but is always worth the wait.
I hearted her message, hoping she was right.
My ultrasound appointment was on Wednesday afternoon at three o’clock. Ari had offered to meet me there, but I told her I didn’t mind going on my own.
“Are you sure?” she asked over the phone. “I can put real clothes on, jump in the car, and be there in ten minutes. Dash is here, and he can stay with Wren and Truman.”
“I’m sure,” I said. “Enjoy your family time. I’ll send you the picture.”
“You better.” She paused. “Have you heard from Joe?”
“No,” I admitted. “Not a word.”
