Shelagh was exhausted she was feeling sick, but not as bad as it once was. She was comfortable and just about asleep when she heard Patrick come home from his call.
When he entered the bedroom, she asked, "How was it?"
"Fine. I am not sure I was needed. Sister Julienne had things well in hand."
"I can't believe she is on call like one of the young nurses," Shelagh said.
"I can't believe that you are awake. Are the children asleep?"
"Yes they are asleep."
"Really!"
Shelagh did not have to look at face to know what he was getting at. She could hear it in his voice.
"Not tonight Patrick I am much too tired."
Patrick was disappointed. It had been weeks since Shelagh was not too tired.
Patrick climbed in bed and nuzzled up to her. "Oh well, there will always be South Africa," he sighed.
"Patrick," she said in a sharp 'why don't you understand me' and 'I am full of hormones' kind of voice.
"Shelagh, I was just teasing. Seriously I understand...unless you want to change your mind."
"Not tonight, but soon.
"Patrick, you were right though."
"About what?"
She placed his hand on her still trim abdomen, "There will always be Africa."
"We could turn some heads if we called this baby Africa," Patrick giggled.
"We would have one less child, because I am certain Timothy would run away."
Patrick laughed, "You are feeling better you have gotten your sense of humor back. Promise me one thing when you are ready to reminisce our trip to Africa, you will wear your nighty."
Shelagh did not respond.
Later that week, Shelagh retired for the night while Patrick was finishing reading an article in the sitting room. When Patrick came into the bedroom Shelagh was sitting up in bed wearing her bri-nylon nighty.
He smiled and said,"Hello Africa!"
(Note: Hello Africa = Hello Nurse)