December arrived, with the weather starting to move into summer. Nikki was making a name for herself at NAVCOM with the aiding of complex navigations, guiding several merchant ships through coral fields when they happened to stray into one.
Josh's school year is finishing. He will be graduating in January and ready to do his apprentice teaching over the next academic year. His advisor is setting up several interviews for him in the greater Cairns area, prompting discussions with Nikki about the need for childcare.
With Christmas two weeks away, they were making plans to visit their families. It was a challenge with them being so far away and one being in Perth and the other in Melbourne. Nikki managed to get two weeks leave starting on 22 December.
Getting home from NAVCOM, Nikki finds Josh in the kitchen putting together one of his meat pies. "Hey, Luv," she greets him as she goes to him for a kiss and a hug hello.
"How's the Navy?"
" All good. Mike gave me 2 - weeks leave over the holiday. Starts on the 22nd."
"What do you want to do," he asks, going back to his pie.
"Well, maybe we could stay home through Christmas and have a nice quiet day with Gale, then head south on the 26th or 27th? I have to be back by January 6th. Let me get the calendar." Nikki got their calendar and opened it to December / January, and set it on the bench near Josh.
"How about we plan on heading down on the 27th, spend three days with one set of parents, then travel to the other for three days coming home on January 3rd. We'd have a few days together before you have to return to duty." Josh suggested after he looked over the calendar.
"That sounds good to me. What's Gale up to?"
" When I checked on her, she was looking at her books with her bear. Are you sure that you will feel up to this trip?" Josh asked her.
"I'm sure I'll be fine. The hardest part will be getting comfortable and staying comfortable on the plane."
Christmas eve was spent with the Blakes, Mike and Kate. Sally had a light dinner prepared, and they exchanged gifts with the little ones.
Christmas day arrived with the temperatures in the 80's and very sunny skies. Gale woke up at her usual time, still too little to get the Santa excitement. After enjoying a leisurely breakfast of strawberry waffles made with the strawberries they had picked at the farm, they brought her to the tree to open her gifts from Santa. Nikki helped her while Josh took a video for the grandparents.
The rest of the day was spent lounging around and playing with Gale. That evening they had Emma over for dinner. Being that her family was out of town for the holiday, they didn't want her to be alone
.27 December:
Josh had booked their plane tickets, and they were set to head to Melbourne. They would be visiting the Holidays in Melbourne, then flying to Perth to visit Sophia and Dom and then home to Cairns.
Their flight to Melbourne was at 10 am, getting them to Melbourne around 1:30. They picked up the hire car and arrived at Josh's parents a little before 2:00. As soon as she heard their car pull into the driveway, Diane rushed outside to greet them.
"Oh my gosh! Look at you all! Nikki, you look wonderful! And how much you have grown, little princess! And you, Josh… well, you look as handsome as ever, of course, I'm biased," she said teasingly.
"It's so great to see you all!" James said enthusiastically.
"It's great to be here, Dad."
" Come on, let's go inside. Did you have lunch? Are you hungry?"
"I could use a sandwich, Mum. They don't feed you on the plane anymore."
"Nikki?"
"Vegemite on toast? I'll help."
"No, you won't. Go on outside; I'll be out in a jiffy. Can I get something for Gale?
"Peanut butter and jam would be fine," Josh adds. "We have her sippy cup in her nappy bag. I'll get it. Nikki, please go sit, Luv."
Nikki followed Jim outside and got comfortable in the shade.
"So, Nikki, how's the Navy?" James asks.
"You know, I miss the ships, but I've been doing a lot of navigating assistance from NAVCOM, and I am loving it. When I'm not doing that, I go over Mike's reports for him, highlighting the important bits. That can be interesting and sometimes comical, and it keeps me involved with what's happening on the boats."
"Josh must be happy having you home. Gale too."
"I'm happy being home with them. It's so nice being with my family."
Diane returns with their sandwiches and Josh with their drinks, beer for Jim and himself, lemonade for Nikki and Diane, milk of course for Gale."
"Josh was telling me that he will be interviewing for an apprentice position after the holidays," Diane says. " What are you going to do about Daycare? I wish that we lived closer."
"We do too. That would be so perfect... if that is what you would want to do. Might be a bit much every day."
"Nonsense. Anyway, what will you do?"
"We've been going back and forth over nanny vs daycare."
"Not sure that I am ready for her to go to daycare yet," Josh adds.
"And with little Joshua, I honestly don't want our newborn in daycare. I do get 14 weeks of paid maternity leave, and I can take unpaid leave for up to a year, so we have some time to decide," Nikki explains. "Especially if Josh is teaching."
"Apprentice teaching... will you be paid, Josh?" his dad wondered.
"Not a full salary, but yes, I'll get something."
"What about a bigger place?" James asks.
"Yeah, we've been talking about that too... Bigger townhouse or a house."
"No rush there either. We're going to have the bub's sleeping in our room for the time being anyway. It will be easier with nighttime feedings." replies Nikki. As they continue to visit, the afternoon passes pleasantly.
"We thought that we could exchange gifts tomorrow with your sisters. I'm going to have them over for dinner."
"That sounds good," Josh tells her. Then, "I think I'll take Gale in the pool, care to join me?"
" Sounds fun. Jim, are you in?" Diane asks him.
"Yup, you bet."
"Nikki? Are you able to join us?"
"I am. I brought my maternity bather with me. The pool will feel nice. Wait until you see the special swim trainer float we have for Gale. She loves it."
After changing, they meet down at the pool, and Josh got Gale into her swim float.
"Wherever did you find that?" Diane asks with amazement. " I've never seen anything like it. I bet your sister would like one, Josh."
"I found it online when I was looking for something for her to use in the pool.".
Josh brings Gale out into the water with Nikki, and Gale splashes back and forth between them, moving herself through the water.
"I love it! Jim, look at that! She's swimming!" Diane exclaimed.
That evening, after a fine dinner of roast pork and roasted potatoes, Josh and Nikki took a walk to the marina with Gale in her backpack, holding hands as they walked along. Snuggled on a bench, they watched the pink and gold sunset while Gail played in the grass in front of them.
When they were back from their walk, Josh slipped out of the back carrier to see a very tired little Poppet.
"She's had one busy day," Diane remarked.
"That she has," Nikki replies.
At that, Josh carried Gale upstairs to the room Diane had set up for her. " We'll get her settled; we won't be long," Nikki said, following Josh upstairs.
When they returned, ten minutes later, Diane asked if they were ready for some dessert.
"That would be perfect, Mum."
Around 10:00, Josh and Nikki settled into bed with Nikki lying on her side. Josh spooned up against her, gently kissing her neck and shoulders while caressing her tummy and whispering sweet things to their baby boy.
"I love you, Josh," as she held his hand over her stomach and felt their baby move.
"Love you too, Babe." Turning her for a proper kiss.
28 December:
Diane, along with Josh's sisters, had planned a surprise baby shower for them. The challenge was getting them out of the house for several hours while they got everything organised. Josh's sister Amelia came up with a plan.
"That sounds perfect," Diane says.
Amelia called Josh and Nikki that morning and asked if they would like to go over to their house. She wanted to show off the new kitchen, and then after that, they could take the kids to the zoo to see the new red panda exhibit, and one of the koalas has a new joey.
"Let me get Nikki and ask her," and he calls out to her.
"I'm in the back, Luv," she calls back.
"Hold a sec, Sis; I'm going to check with Nikki."
"No worries,"
"Nik, Amelia has invited us to see her new kitchen and then take the kids to the zoo. What do you think?"
"Sounds like fun. What time does she want us?"
"We're in. What time, Sis?... ten-thirty sounds good. See you then."
"Mum, Amelia has invited us over to see the new kitchen and then we're going to take the little ones to the zoo. Did you want to come?"
"That sounds lovely, but no. I'm going to stay and get dinner organised. You guys have fun."
"What time is dinner?"
"Be back for 2:00 if you could. Your sister knows as well."
Josh got his sister's address from Diane and plugged it into the car's GPS getting to Amanda's just a little after 10:30.
The kitchen was fabulous. Nikki loved the granite benchtops and new cabinets. After a short visit, they set out for the zoo in two cars.
"Josh, do you need a stroller for Gale?"
"Nah, we have her backpack carrier. She loves it. She can see all around, and she gets to pound me on the head," he said with a chuckle.
The zoo was tons of fun, especially watching the little ones' reactions to the animals. The red pandas were adorable. Gale saw the koala with her joey and called out, " My bear has a baby!" giving everyone in earshot a laugh.
"She is talking so well," Amelia remarked.
" She surprises us every day; it's so fun!" Nikki says.
After a light lunch, they visited the last few exhibits while Gale fell asleep on Josh's shoulder.
"She is so adorable," Amelia remarks.
Chuckling, "We think so," Josh replies, taking Nikki's hand as they walk back to the cars. Between the two of them, they manage to get Gale into her car seat without her waking.
"Josh, don't worry about the GPS. Just follow us back to Mum and Dad's."
"Okay, Sis."
While Josh and Nikki were occupied at the zoo, Diane and Josh's sister Stacy
set up the back garden for the surprise baby shower. There was a lovely cake with ' Coming to a Cot Soon! Baby Joshua!' inscribed on it. Balloons in blue, green, and yellow were spread about the garden. They decorated two chairs. For Nikki, they had brought out a rocker, and Josh had one of the cushioned lawn chairs. Stacy had even brought a tiny lawn chair for Gale. Josh's two aunts had arrived, and everything was all set.
Amelia called her mum from the car when they were on their way home.
Because they were expecting visits from the rest of the family, Josh and Nikki weren't surprised when there were extra cars outside the house.
"Looks like Stacy and John are here and my aunts," Josh remarked.
Getting a still sleeping Gale from her car seat, Josh carried her into the house. " Let's just lay her on a blanket in the living room; it'll be easier to check on her," Nikki suggests.
"Sounds good." Nikki spread a cozy from the lounge on the floor, and Josh gently laid Gale down then covered her lightly.
Nikki needed the loo; Josh said he could use it too.
"Alright, you two, meet you out back," Amelia said as she walked to the back doors.
Finished, they met up in the hallway, then heading out back with Josh's hand on Nikki's back; they were assaulted with a loud shout.
"SURPRISE!"
Nikki's hands flew to her face, "OH MY GOD! I DON'T BELIEVE THIS!"
Josh put his arm around her, speechless. Then he laughed. "Wow!"
"Come, sit!" Diane led them to their chairs. "We didn't get to do this for you and Gale, so we thought that we would do it for baby Joshua."
"I don't know what to say! Thank you!" Nikki said with tears, and she hugged Diane. Josh hugged his mum too and thanked her.
"Okay! The fun part! The gifts!" Diane announced. "Then we have cake and coffee or whatever."
While they were opening gifts, Gale woke up, and just as Josh was going in to check on her, she came toddling out of the living room.
"Hey Poppet!" grabbing her up into a hug as she reached for him. "Did you have a nice nap?"
"Yes! Drink, please?"
"Sure, let's get changed first."
" Where's Mum-Mum?"
"She's outback with Nana and your aunties. Let's get you changed; then we'll go see her."
Before returning to the party, Josh got Gale some milk, then, carrying her, returned to the patio. Surprised and a little shy to see all of the guests, she nuzzled into her daddy's neck.
"There's Mum-Mum. She's sitting right over here."
At that moment, she notices all of the balloons and decorations. "A party!" she yells out, making everyone laugh.
"Yes, Poppet, it's a party for baby Joshua."
"Joshua is in Mum-Mum's tummy!"
"Yes, he is. These are prezzies for when he's born."
Seeing Nikki, she reached over to her, so Josh set her on her mother's lap, where she immediately placed her little hands on Nikki's rounded stomach.
"I feeled baby Joshua!"
Nikki, along with everyone else, laughed. " Yes, you sure do. I think he may be running in there."
"He can't run! He's too little!" causing a lot more laughter.
"She is so precious!" Josh's Aunt Mary said.
There were so many wonderful gifts... little outfits, and other baby needs. Amelia and Stacy went in on a double jogging stroller, knowing that they like to run. It would be delivered to them after they returned home. The same with the beautiful wooden cradle that Diane and James got for them.
The shower broke up around 4:00, and Nikki was overdue for a nap.
"Josh, would you like to have a lay down with Nikki? We'll keep the little one occupied. Amelia and Stacy will be back later, around six, to join us for dinner."
"Sounds good, thanks, Mum," Josh followed Nikki upstairs. Cuddled up on the bed, they laid talking about the day and making out until they both fell asleep.
When it was time for dinner, James did some chicken and steaks on the BBQ. Diane made a salad, Amelia brought potato salad, and Stacy got some corn. There was plenty of cake leftover for dessert.
After dinner, they gathered in the living room to exchange their Christmas gifts. Stacy and Amelia said goodnight around 8:00, then Josh and Nikki put Gale to bed. When they returned to the living room, James put on a movie.
Nikki was lying on the couch, with Josh sitting on the floor next to her. Nikki couldn't help herself and played with his curls.
The movie was about halfway through when Diane got Josh's attention with a nod to look at Nikki. Glancing over his shoulder, he saw Nikki trying and losing the battle to stay awake.
"Hey Luv, let's call it a night, ay?"
"Mmmm, Okay."
"Mum, Dad, thank you for today. We'll see ya in the morning," helping Nikki up from the lounge.
"Goodnight Luv, sleep well, Nikki," Diane said.
Upstairs in their room, Josh helped her out of her clothes. She was exhausted and could barely hold herself up. After going to the loo, she slipped into bed, with Josh following close after. Nikki snuggled up to him and almost instantly fell to sleep. Chuckling, Josh kissed her shoulder softly. Then with his hand on her tummy, he followed her into sleep.
29 December:
After a breakfast of waffles and fruit, James took them out for a cruise on his beloved boat. It was pleasant with a slight sea breeze as they cruised the harbour. James took them by HMAS Cerberus, the Navy's training facility. Returning, he cruised up river and anchored for some lunch. Gale was enjoying watching the sea birds and even a surprise dolphin in the Yarra River.
When they got back to the house, Nikki excused herself to go and lay down.
"Josh, would you like me to take Gale for a walk? We have a stroller from when we used to babysit for Amanda. Maybe she'll fall asleep too."
"Thanks, Mum, that would be great. I can take advantage and do some laps in the pool." Kissing Gale on the head, "be good for Nana, Poppet."
When he entered the bedroom, Josh smiled; Nikki was already asleep. (She looks so beautiful, peaceful) After covering her with a light coverlet, he quietly changed into his swimmer.
Nikki rolled over and looked at him when he came into the room to change after his swim. She held out her hand, pulling him down onto the bed.
Josh kissed her quickly. "Nik, I'm wet. Let me get out of my wet shorts."
Josh dropped his wet bather, grabbed a pair of boxers, and joined Nikki on the bed. She pulled him close for a kiss which led to another and another. During their make-out session, they heard Diane and James return with Gale.
Josh smiled, "I guess that's our signal that it's time to get up."
Laughing, Nikki kissed him one more time. "I guess it is. I just can't get enough of you, Josh Holiday."
"Can't get enough of you either. I love you, Nikki Holiday."
She kissed him again.
Josh got dressed, and they made their way downstairs to find Diane, Jim and a sleeping Gale on the patio. Josh got them all drinks, and the remainder of the afternoon was spent enjoying the outdoors and each other. A slight wind was helping to keep it cool.
That evening they went out to dinner at an outdoor restaurant near the harbour. Gale was thrilled with more sea birds. They would be heading to Perth in the morning for a visit with the Caetano's.
30 December
Josh and Nikki Thank Diane and James for a delightful visit and for the surprise party. They were off the airport for their 10:30 flight to Perth, toting an extra suitcase with their Christmas gifts and all of the new things for the baby.
Landing in Perth at 2:30, they retrieved their hire car. Josh put the address into the GPS, and they set off pulling into Nikki's parent's driveway at 3:30.
"Nikki! Josh!" Sophia exclaimed as she ran from the house to the car. " Little princess, you are getting so big! Will you give your Nonna a hug?" Gale was smiling as she transferred into Sophia's arms. " Does Pop Pop get a hug too?"
" Yes!" and she transferred to Dom.
" Hi, Mum, remember me?" Nikki laughed then hugged her Mum and Dad. Dom reached out and shook Josh's hand.
"It's good to see you, Son."
"And you too, Dom. We're thrilled that we could come."
"Nikki! My goodness, look at you!"
"Yeah, getting kind of big…"
"You look beautiful," her Dad says.
"You are beautiful," Josh adds, " besides, you're cooking our healthy baby boy," added with a grin.
"Let's take this inside, shall we?" Dom says to the group.
"Would you three like something to eat? Drink?"
"We grabbed a quick lunch on the way, but I could go for a cold drink. Nikki?"
"That would be good."
"Can Gale have a biscuit?" Sophia asked.
"Yeah, okay, but just one," Nikki replied.
"Nikki, Josh, go sit. Dad and I will take care of the drinks."
They went out to the patio with Gale and sat in the lounges. After a few minutes, Sophia and Dom followed with their drinks. Beers for Josh and Dom, Lemonade for Nikki and Sophia. Gale got her biscuit and sippy cup of milk.
"Tank you, Nonna."
"Your welcome, peaches. My goodness! So polite!"
Nikki smiled, "we're trying."
"Well, it's working."
They had so much to talk about and were having a pleasant chat while exchanging their Christmas gifts.
Sophia made Nikki's favourite lasagna for dinner with tiramisu for dessert. Dinner finished, they sat around the table chatting while Gale played on the floor nearby with her new Fisher-Price Farm, from Pop-Pop and Nonna.
Sophia rose to start clearing the table, and Nikki stood up to help."Nikki, just sit; we've got this." Sophia told her. Dom had already carried some of the dishes to the kitchen.
"Mum, I'm pregnant, not an invalid."
"I know, but… allow a mother this. I missed out on last time."
Just as Sophia finished her admonition, Nikki cried out and doubled over, grabbing her stomach. Josh practically jumped across the table and was with her in seconds. Wrapping his arms around her, he helped her to a chair.
"Luv, Baby, what is it?"
"Hurts...too early…"
"I'm calling 000!" Sophia said, grabbing her phone.
Josh and Dom carried her to the living room lounge and put her feet up. The spasm, or whatever it was, seemed to ease up when another one hi. Josh was beside himself but trying to keep it together for Nikki. Little Gale came running, not understanding what was happening except that her Mum-Mum was crying.
Gale caught on that there was something wrong with her mummy and started crying. "Mum-Mum's sick?!" Sophia scooped her up and held her close, talking to her soothingly, "Mum-Mum is feeling a little sick and needs to see the doctor. The ambulance is going to come to help her. It will be okay." Then Sophia brought her in to see Nikki.
"The ambulance is on the way," Sophia announced.
"Hey Poppet, come give Mum-Mum a hug," Nikki said weakly. "It'll be okay. Just going to be checked by the doctor. Okay? Daddy and I are going to get a special ride."
Gale snuffled and wiped at her eyes, "wanna come."
"Not this time, Poppet," Josh answered. "You're going to stay here with Nonna and Pop Pop."
Nikki was trying hard to hold it together but failing, "Josh, what if there's something wrong with the baby?"
"One thing at a time, Luv, let's get you looked at," Josh said, holding her hand and trying not to look worried.
Nodding, "Yeah, yeah... okay. Don't leave me…" as tears rolled down her cheeks. Josh brushed them away.
"Not going anywhere."
The ambulance and paramedics arrived. Taking vital signs, they found her blood pressure to be a little high; they hustled her and Josh to the ambulance.
As soon as they were in the E.R., an O.B. doctor was called in. Nikki was getting undressed; when she noticed some bleeding, increasing her anxiety to near panic. Fortunately, there hadn't been any more pain.
Dr Wilson, the on-call obstetrician, ordered an ultrasound and a fetal monitor while he was on his way into the hospital.
"Josh, I'm so scared."
Moving closer and wrapping her in his arms, "I know, Baby." A nurse was placing the foetal monitor on Nikki's belly. Then there was the comforting sound of baby Joshua's heartbeat, nice and steady, helping to reassure them. A technician arrived to do the ultrasound.
Shortly a pleasant man in his fifties walked into her cubicle and introduced himself, " Mr and Mrs Holiday, I'm Dr Wilson, the O.B. doc on call. Tell me what happened."
Nikki explained the stabbing pain and bleeding. Then he pulled out the ultrasound report and image. He then did an exam.
"Everything is looking fine. I don't see any problems with the baby. The foetal monitor shows a nice, strong and healthy heartbeat.
Nikki and Josh released the breath they had been holding and felt some relief at that news.
Your due date is in February?"
"February 17."
"Well, everything seems to be right on the mark. Mrs Holiday, you've had a previous pregnancy and birth?"
"Yes."
"And how was that?"
"No problems, which was good as we were stranded on an island. Josh delivered her."
"Really? Well...wait, I remember now, you're the couple that was rescued after being missing for a year."
Josh gave a nervous smile, "that's us."
"Amazing, well, Mr Holiday, Mrs Holiday, may I call you Nicole?"
"Nikki is fine, please."
"Alright, Nikki, your B.P. is slightly elevated. Avoid salt and drink plenty of water. I believe the pain you were feeling was intense Braxton Hicks contractions. Very normal, especially in the late stages of pregnancy. It is also not unusual to spot at any time; however, you had a little more than I like to see. That seems to have subsided as well. Your blood work shows that you are also slightly anemic. From speaking with your husband, I understand that you have been experiencing extreme fatigue. So, what does all of this mean for you? You are returning to Cairns when?"
"In two days, January 2nd," Josh replies.
"Okay, for the remainder of your visit here, you need to be on restricted activity. You don't need to stay in bed but move about as little as possible and keep your feet elevated. Let hubby wait on you," he said with a wink.
Nikki smiled, "he already does," looking up at Josh with affection.
"Call your O.B. tomorrow and make an appointment for as soon as possible when you return. I'll be sure to have the notes of your E.R. visit's sent. Stay on restricted activity until you see your own doctor. Now, any more incidents while you are here, come back straight away. Oh, and no intercourse...sorry."
"Nikki and the baby are all that is important," Josh says.
"Of course, any questions?"
"Baby's okay?" Nikki asked with a hitch to her voice.
"Your baby's fine. We just want to keep you both fine. Take care now."
"Thanks, Doctor Wilson," Josh said.
"My pleasure, very nice meeting you both." He walked out of the exam room.
"Mrs Holiday, I'll help you dress," the nurse said.
"Oh, Josh can help."
"We need Mr Holiday to take care of some paperwork so that we can get you on your way."
Josh nodded.
"If you would, Mr Holiday left out of the door. The registration desk is just down the hall on the right. We'll meet you in the lobby."
Josh gave Nikki a kiss and a squeeze, "I'll call us an Uber. See you in a minute."
"Okay, Luv. We need to call Mum and Dad."
"We can do that while we wait for the Uber."
Josh found his way to the desk, took care of the needed paperwork, and then called for a ride. While waiting for Nikki, he called Sophia and Dom.
"Hello? Josh?!" Dom answered anxiously.
"Hey Dom, we're getting ready to leave the hospital."
"How is she? Is the baby alright?"
"Nikki's okay, the doctor thinks it was intense Braxton Hicks contractions, but she has been put on restricted activity. I think work will be done for her for a while."
"Does she need to stay in bed?"
"No, she just needs to stay off her feet as much as possible."
"Sophia is settling Gale. I'll go get her."
"Wait, Dom. I have to go; the nurse is bringing Nikki out. Can you fill her in? We'll be home shortly."
"Sure. I'll let her know."
As he finished his call, he turned towards the lobby and saw the nurse approaching with Nikki in a wheelchair. (She's going to hate this)
"Hey Babe, the car should be here in a jiff, and I've spoken to your Dad," leaning down and kissing her as she reached for his hand.
"I was so scared. What if something happened to baby Joshua?' she sighed with tears threatening.
"You've named your baby?" her nurse asked. " How sweet that you refer to him by name. I've not heard of anyone doing that until the bub's born."
Nikki and Josh both just smiled. The car arrived, and Josh helped Nikki into the back seat, went around and let himself in, giving the address to the driver.
"Josh, would you mind if we stop for some ice cream?"
Laughing, "Nope, sounds good to me. Do you know what your parents like?"
"I'm sure anything chocolate for my mum and dad likes vanilla stuff."
Josh asked the driver to stop at a convenience grocery for the ice cream.
Gale was already asleep when they got home, and Josh went up to kiss her goodnight, insisting that Nikki remain downstairs and on the lounge. Nikki pouted.
"Nik, babe, you can kiss her when we go up for the night."
"Nikki, we were so worried. Thank God everything's alright." Sophia says, hugging her.
"I know, Mum, we were worried too. The doctor said everything was okay, but we need to take precautions."
Josh arrived in the living room with ice cream and spoons.
"Ice cream… the perfect comfort food," Nikki said.
"I'm going to tell your brothers that they have to spread out their visits. I don't want you to overdo." Sophia tells her.
"That's probably not necessary, Mum."
"Nik," Josh jumped in, " Please, I will feel better if you just take it easy. I know it's hard for you, but you really need to rest now. You and Joshua are first and foremost."
"Alright, I'll be good."
They finished their ice cream while they continued to chat.
"So, the doctor said no work?" Sophia asked.
"Well, he said it was up to Dr Brennan, but I assume so."
Dom chuckled, "Josh, you are going to have your hands full."
"Right you are."
Josh excused himself to call his parents to fill them in on what happened.
New Years Eve
Sophia arranged that Nikki's brothers would visit one at a time, and being Sophia, she made a schedule. Rich was in Brisbane, so that left the three others.
Danny and Gail would be coming for lunch, Scott and Melissa at 3:00, and then Nathan would be there at 6:00 to share dinner with them.
Nikki had to chuckle when her mum told her the schedule. Josh made sure that she laid down and rested between visits. Sophia and Dom were more than happy to help with keeping Gale occupied.
It was terrific seeing her brothers, and they each bought a gift for Gale and the baby.
Nikki laughed, "Good that we have that extra suitcase!"
They had a dinner of take-away Chinese, their traditional New Year's eve fare. Nathan left shortly after dinner to celebrate with his friends.
After getting Gale off to bed, Josh joined everyone in the living room. Nikki laid down across the lounge and rested her head on Josh's lap, his arm draped across her, and she grabbed his hand as they chatted with Sophia and Dom about this and that. Eventually, the conversation moved to houses.
"You're going to be a bit cramped in your townhouse. Are you thinking of moving?" Dom asked.
"We've talked about it," Josh replied.
Then Nikki added, "We decided to wait until after he's born. There really is no hurry."
"Will he be sleeping in with Gale?" Sophia wonders, thinking that that was probably not a good idea with crying and nighttime feedings.
"No, No. Baby Joshua will be in with us. Josh's parents gave us a beautiful wooden cradle. Having him with us will make the feedings easier. There's plenty of room in our suite for his cradle and a changing table. There's already a rocker."
"What about your sleep?"
"Gale was in the tent with us from the time she was born, obviously no other choice. It was fine."
At 10:30, Nikki had Josh help her up to the loo. When she returned, he asked her if she wanted to go up to bed.
"No, I want to ring in the New Year with you and Mum and Dad." She resumed her position on the lounge. Josh leaned over and placed a kiss on her head.
Dom turned on the Television a little after 11:00, and they settled in to watch the festivities. The station they were watching was showing the Opera House in Sydney as they waited for the fireworks over the harbour.
As it approached midnight, Josh looked down at Nikki; she was fast asleep. Smiling, he brushed her cheek. Dom, Sophia and Josh wished each other a Happy New Year at midnight, Dom giving Sophia a kiss. Josh gently woke Nikki.
"Happy New Year, Luv."
Barely awake, "what? I missed it?"
"You did, but no worries, there's always next year."
Josh helped her up off the lounge then pulled her in for a kiss. " Happy New Year, Baby."
"Happy New Year," she said, then kissed him back.
"Come on, let's get you upstairs. Dom, Sophia, goodnight, well see you in the morning."
"G'night Mum & Dad, Happy New Year."
"Love you, dear," Sophia responded.
2 January
It was time for them to return home. Josh had everything loaded into the car, and they said their goodbyes.
"Nikki, please take care," Sophia said, hugging her. "And stay in touch. I'm going to worry."
"Try not to worry too much, Mum. We'll be fine," she said while holding her tummy.
"You know your Mum, Sweetheart," Dom said. "She can't help herself."
Josh gave Sophia a hug followed by a handshake and man hug with Dom, complete with back slaps. Gale received hugs and kisses from her grandparents then they were off.
Once they were seated on the plane, Josh made sure Nikki was as comfortable as possible in the cramped space. She settled in, and shortly after take-off, she and Gale fell asleep. Josh took a deep breath and sighed. He had been trying hard not to let Nikki see his worry, but he was worried.
Nikki had called Dr Brennan from her parents before they left for the airport. She was given an appointment for the next day.
They pulled into their garage at 4:00. Nikki was exhausted after a long day of travelling, and Josh tucked her in for another nap. Kissing her cheek, "What would you like to have for dinner?"
"How about pizza?"
"That sounds perfect. I'll call it in when you wake up."
Gale played in her playpen in the living room, and Josh took advantage of that time to unload the car and unpack. Finished with the unpacking, he called Emma and asked her if she could stop by. He wanted to talk to her about what happened and ask for her help with Gale while taking Nikki to her appointments and such.
Emma arrived ten minutes later. Josh made them tea, and they took it out on the balcony. He had gotten Gale's new favourite toy from the suitcase and set her down to play with her farm.
"Where's Nikki? Laying down?"
" Yeah, she's exhausted from the last couple of days and travelling all day today." Then Josh went on to explain what had happened and asked for her help.
"Josh, you two are like family. I'm happy to help in any way that I can. What else do I have to do? If you need me to stay with Nikki while you go out or watch Gale during appointments, I am more than happy to be here for you."
"Emma, I can't thank you enough. Would you be able to stay with Gale while I take Nikki to the doctors tomorrow? Her appointment is at 10:15."
"Be happy too. I'll come to you, so there's no need to try and get her ready. Say 9:15?"
"Perfect, thank you."
Nikki woke from her nap and called Mike at NAVCOM. She was due to return to work on the 6th.
"Lt. Smith, how may I help you?"
"Daryl, It's Nikki."
"Hey! Hi! How's your holiday?"
"Well, that's what I'm calling about. Is Commander Flynn still in?"
"Hold on, Nikki, I'll check." Returning to the phone, "I'm going to transfer you."
"Thanks, Daryl."
"Take care, Nikki, transferring you now."
"Mike Flynn,"
"Commander, It's Lt. Caetano."
"Nikki, crikey, why so formal? What's up? How was your trip?"
"Well, the trip was mostly good, but I had a problem while I was with my parents that took me to the E.R."
"Dear God! Is everything alright?"
"Seems to be fine, but I have been put on restricted activity, at least for now, until I see my own doctor. I wanted to give you a heads up that I may need a medical leave earlier than expected."
"Nikki, of course. When will you know for sure?"
"Tomorrow, I go see my O.B. doctor. I'll let you know straight away what she says about returning to NAVCOM."
"Okay, Nikki, do what they say and take care of yourself and your baby."
"Oh, believe me, Josh is worse than a mother hen," she said, laughing.
"He's a good man."
"The best. So I'll call tomorrow. My appointment is at 10:15, so I should be in touch before noon."
"No worries, Nikki. Say hi to Josh."
"I will."
Emma arrived right at 9:15 as promised, and Josh and Nikki set off to see Dr Brennan.
"Nikki! So tell me, what's going on? You had some drama while on holiday." Dr Brennan said after greeting them.
"Unwelcome drama," Josh pipped in. Nikki reached over and squeezed his hand, knowing how hard he's trying not to show how worried he is.
"I have the report from the E.R. in Perth, but I want to hear it from you. Tell me what happened."
Nikki went on to explain what happened, the pain that she felt, and also the bleeding.
"When I had Gale, the labour pains started slowly, gradually getting more intense. But this was an instant sharp stabbing pain when I stood up from the dinner table. It took my breath away."
"Okay, we'll do another ultrasound and see how everything looks. Have you had any more occurrences?"
"No,"
"Baby is moving regularly?"
Nikki smiled, "Yes, he's very active."
Dr Brennan squirted the gel on her very rounded tummy and started to move the probe.
"Heartbeat is nice and strong and look! You can see some of his features."
Josh was overwhelmed, tearing up. He squeezed Nikki's hand and leaned over, kissing her head.
"Okay, everything is looking good here, but your B.P. is still a little elevated. I want you to remain on limited activity. No more work unless you can work from home, and it doesn't require you to be moving about. Also, rest, rest, rest. If you work from home, take regular breaks. What I mean is let Josh wait on you. Sit, feet up. I don't want you walking about except to change rooms or going to the loo. Showers or baths, whichever you prefer. How many stairs do you have."
"Well, it's a townhouse," Josh explains.
"Okay, minimal use of the stairs. Josh can take you out in the car for short rides for a change of scenery."
"Okay," Nikki said as Josh nodded.
"Josh, you got this?"
"I do."
"Good. So… Now I am going to see you weekly until baby Joshua is born."
"Alright," Nikki said.
"Do not hesitate to call with any questions or concerns, and of course, any more instances get to the E.R. Now, these are all just precautions. I have every confidence that everything is fine. I'll see you both next week."
"Thank you", they both said as she left the room.
They made their next week's appointment on the way out, Thursday, January 11.
"Okay, sweetness, do you need for me to stop for anything on the way home?"
"I don't think so. How's the food looking?"
"We're okay for a few days, but you let me worry about that, okay?"
"Yup, okay."
Back at the house, Josh followed her up to the living room. After a trip to the loo, Nikki went to get settled on the lounge. Josh gave her a hug and a kiss before she sat down and stretched out on the lounger end of the sofa. Ensuring that Nikki has everything she needs, Josh set up a tray table with her kindle, laptop, T.V. remotes, phone and a glass of ice water. He set up Gales baby monitor so Nikki could call for him if she needed something, clipping the receiver to the waistband of his pants.
"Baby, can I get you anything else, a cuppa or a cold drink?"
"I'd love a cuppa and a couple of Tim Tams," she answered with a grin.
"Be back in a jiff."
After giving Nikki her tea, he called Emma to say that he would be right over to pick up Gale.
"Josh, stay with Nikki. I'll bring her to you. I just brought her here after our walk for a little snack."
"If you're sure, It's not a problem for me to come get her."
"No worries."
Emma arrived a few minutes later and went up to see Nikki. Gale ran over to get a hug from her mum and then her daddy, along with many cheek kisses.
"Go play, Poppet," Josh said, and she toddled off only to return, dragging with her Little People Farm and plopping down in the living room next to the adults.
" Emma, can I get you a cuppa?"
"Oh, that would be lovely. Thank you."
"How do you like your tea?"
"White and one, please."
He returned a minute later with her tea and sat down on the lounge next to Nikki.
"Emma, thank you for everything. You are a Godsend," both Josh and Nikki told her.
"Please, no worries. You are like family to me."
After Emma left, Nikki spoke with Josh about working from home.
"I don't see why not as long as you take breaks when you're tired like she said"
"Josh, Luv. We're okay. Just precautions. Please don't worry."
"Trying, just please... do as the doctors say. I can't stomach the thought of anything happening to you or the baby."
"I will, I promise."
Josh leaned over and kissed her forehead. "I'm going to put some laundry in. Gale, be good for Mum-Mum, okay?"
"Ok, Dada."
"Good Girl."
Nikki picked up her phone and called Mike's cell instead of going through NAVCOM personnel.
"Mike Flynn,"
"Hi Commander, it's Nikki."
"Private line Nikki, it's Mike."
She chuckled, "Okay. I'm back from my appointment. I've talked it over with Josh, and He agrees that working from home will be fine as long as I take breaks when I'm tired. It would help a lot with the boredom."
"Great! You know I hate those reports. You usually get the printed copies so that you can easily mark them. I can send them over to you each morning with Able Seaman Jeffreys, or you can access them online. Whichever you prefer."
"Humm, will I be able to mark them up online, or will I have to create a separate note for you with the highlights?"
"Umm, no, you wouldn't be able to edit the online reports. They have to stay as they were written...but you could make a copy and highlight those."
"Then I think that I would rather just have the hard copies."
"Alright, good. Now listen, if you don't get through them all, no worries. Just work at your own pace. I'll have Jeffreys bring them to you tomorrow, say 9:00? Will that be okay? After that, when he drops off the daily's, he can pick up the ones that you've finished. "
"Shouldn't be a problem. Josh is up with Gale anyway."
"How is he doing?"
"Worried, but everything is fine; he just can't help himself."
"Give him my best. Could Kate and I stop by?"
"Of course, anytime."
"Super, we'll call. This is going to work well, Nikki, as long as it's not too much on you. Now your medical / maternity leave will not be affected at all."
"Thanks, Mike."
They said goodbye just as Josh was returning from the laundry room.
"You spoke to Mike?"
"I did. Jeffreys will be here in the morning at 9:00 with the reports."
"Okay, well, you can't keep your feet up sitting at the desk. Possibly we can work something with the dining table or set up an extra tv tray. Maybe you can even work outside."
"We'll see. We'll figure it out."
Josh did call Emma when he needed to go out; he didn't want Nikki left alone. Understanding his worries, Nikki went along with it.
The January 11th appointment with Dr Brennan was very routine. Everything was looking good, but Nikki was to continue with the restriction until baby Joshua is born.
Then, suddenly, everything changes.
15 January
Their day started as always. Josh is up at 6:00 to begin his day with Gale and gets everyone breakfast. Nikki showers and dresses. Jeffreys arrives promptly at 9:00 to swap out the reports. That's where the day's normal ends.
At 10:15, Josh got an urgent call from his mum. James had a heart attack while on the golf course and was in ICU. They were talking about emergency heart surgery. Could he come?
Stunned, he took several deep breaths, trying to steady himself, then told his mum he would be on the next available flight.
Diane is trying hard to hold it together, "Thanks, Josh, I love you, your dad loves you. I think that it's important that you be here."
"Mum, I love you too. I'm coming."
Wiping his eyes, he goes to see Nikki.
She had been going through one of Kate's reports when Josh walked into the room.
"My God! Josh! What's wrong?"
Voice hitching, " It's dad. He's had a heart attack. A bad one. He's going to need heart surgery."