Three Months after Hope's Birth

Snow hummed as she walked down the beautiful tree lined street. She was pointing out birds to her son, who delighted at the sight of each one. School had only been a half a day so she decided that it would be a perfect time to bring Emma, the nautical themed dress she'd made for Hope. Plus she'd use any excuse to visit her adorable granddaughter.

Snow pulled up short as Henry came running up to her and said, "Grandma thank God you're here."

Snow immediately went on alert. "Henry what's wrong? Did something happen with the baby?"

"No Hope's fine. She's napping in her bassinet. It's Mom I'm worried about."

" Is she hurt?

"No, not physically, but something is definitely not right. Killian and I have been doing we can to help with the baby and the house but Mom still looks exhausted. After she put Hope down, she kind of just collapsed on the couch. She tried to hide it from me, and said everything is fine, but I think she was crying. This isn't like her."

"No it isn't. Where's Killian?"

"He got a sheriff's duty call in the middle of the night. Apparently some of his crew got drunk and did some minor property damage around the town. He went to read them the riot act, and was trying to calm the owners down. He called home this morning and also said he and Grandpa had something they needed to do. He didn't say what. I tried calling him but he didn't pick up."

"I was wondering where David took off to this morning. He had me drop Neal off at Belle's. Henry would you mind taking Neal to get some ice cream?"

She dug in her pocket and pulled out a twenty dollar bill. As she handed it to him she said, "in fact why don't you stop and ask Violet, if she wants some? It will give me time alone with your mother."

Henry blushed slightly said you are never going to stop playing match maker are you Grandma? I'd be happy to take my favorite Uncle for Ice Cream. I will call you just before we head back."

Snow laughed at the Uncle part.

"Our family is kind of strange. "

"Kind of," Henry agreed. "So what do you say Neal? Want to come with me?"

Neal giggled and said, "Nree." and offered his little hand. Henry took it, and they were off.

Snow smiled as they retreated. She was so proud of her boys. Then her expression turned sober, and her mind immediately switched to her daughter. It was time to tend to Emma, even ifshe didn't want to be tended ttoo.

to be continued.