Chapter 13

It was now late January, two weeks before her due date. Abbey went for one of her last doctor's appointments.

"Everything looks fine, Abbey. You've started to dilate but since this is your second baby that's not surprising. Your blood pressure is a little high but I know you have a little one at home so that's not really concerning me. Any questions?"

"No. Not really. I've just been so tired from the holidays. I can't seem to get my energy level back up. I know you said that's normal, but it's so different for me."

"Do you have someone that can take your daughter off your hands for a few hours, just so you can rest more? With another child in the house, you probably aren't getting the rest you need."

"Yeah, I can ask my mother-in-law to take her for a few hours. I know she's willing to help me out."

"Good. I want you off your feet as much as you can. And I'm glad you're not trying to go back to school."

"Oh, no. There's no way I could do that."

"Okay, now remember to call me when your contractions are five minutes apart. If your water breaks, just go on to the hospital and the staff will let me know."

Abbey smiled. She was so uncomfortable now that the thought of labor was a pleasant one. In a matter of weeks now, she would see this baby for the first time. And hopefully give Jed the son he so desperately wanted.

Later that night, Jed and Abbey were resting on the sofa.

"Your mother wants to keep Liz this weekend, if it's okay with you. I'm just so tired carrying around this baby that I really need just to rest."

"Of course. In fact, why don't we go out to the farm, just you and I, because I know how peaceful the farm is for you, especially this time of the year."

"That's a great idea. Out there you'll wait on me hand and foot, right?" Abbey smiled devilishly.

"What! I'm at your beck and call now." Jed turned to face his wife with that special grin on his face. The one that instantly melted her heart.

"Then how about some ice cream? Some nuts? And don't forget the strawberry jam on top."

"Ugh! How can you eat that stuff?"

"It tastes good. Especially now. And you're my servant, right?" They both laughed as Jed stood up to meet his wife's craving.

"Yeah. I guess I always will be."