Page 16 of Open Net

She nodded. “It will be over in a flash.”

That seemed to bring some relief to Emma, and I grew even more grateful they were here. Coach and Marie were the closest thing we had to parents and the most experienced ones in the room.

Kelly walked back in carrying a small cup. “This is Bicitra to help settle your stomach. The operating room is being prepped and we’ll bring you in as soon as possible.”

“Thank you.” Emma’s gave her a weary smile.

Kelly disappeared and I watched Emma. She seemed to be doing better but I wish I knew what was going on in her mind.

“You okay, baby?” I asked Emma.

Her eyes met mine and she nodded. She was pale and tired, but oh so beautiful to my eyes. I kissed the top of her head, warm from exertion.

A new nurse walked in with a stack of folded blue cloth. “These are for Dad.” She surveyed the room and I held up my hand. “Change into these and we’ll take you to wash in.”

I took the cloth and realized they were scrubs. This was it. It was time. I looked up and saw Coach watching me with a smile. He nodded. “It’s ‘go’ time, son.”

I walked into the restroom and changed quickly. I felt guilty being away from Emma when I knew she needed me.

When I walked back into the room, Dr. Hopkins was there. I dwarfed the doctor by two feet, but she seemed tall and hero-like to me at that moment. This tiny brunette was going to help us deliver our baby. “Hey there, Dad. You ready?”

I shrugged. “I guess so.”

Emma held out her hand and I hurried to her side and took hers in both of mine. “You ready?” I asked.

Her face contorted and a tear rolled down her cheek. “Yeah. Let’s go meet our baby.”

“Perfect. I will see you in the operating room.” Dr. Hopkins excused herself and left.

“Let me take those.” Chloe took my folded clothes from the bed where I’d set them and stuffed them in our hospital bag.

“Honey, do you have preemie clothes?” Marie asked suddenly.

Emma shook her head. “No, I didn’t think I’d need them.”

Marie and Chloe looked at each other. “We have shopping to do.” Marie sounded excited about this.

“Oh great.” Reese groaned, but smiled and winked at me.

“We’ll take care of that and be back by the time you’re in the recovery room.” Chloe said with optimism.

“Thanks guys.” I was grateful someone else was able to think more than ten seconds ahead.

“If you need anything just let us know,” Marie said before leaning down and giving Emma a hug. “We’ll be here when you’re done.”

Emma nodded. “Thank you.”

After each of them hugged her then me, they walked out leaving us alone.

I gazed down at my beautiful wife and couldn’t resist the urge to kiss her. I placed a gentle kiss on her lips, cheeks, then forehead. “I love you so much.”

Her glistening eyes held mine. “I love you more.”

Kelly walked in followed by two new nurses. “Ready?”

“Yes.” Emma sounded strong. I was so proud of her.

“Okay, Dad follow me, and we’ll see you soon Emma.”