POV John
As I drove down the mountain in the truck, I was nervous and excited at the same time. I wanted to see the newest member of our family, but since Olivia and I lost a child four year ago, I was worried.
"John?" I heard as I looked around Dr. Vance's office. He put his glasses on. "What's the matter John? Is it Olivia?" I nodded.
"Ma needs you. Olivia is getting ready to have this child. We need to be there." Dr. Vance nodded.
"We should get her into Charlottesville if it's possible. After the problems Olivia had last time I would feel better if she was in the hospital where I could monitor her." I nodded.
"It may be too late." I replied. Dr. Vance grabbed his hat.
"Let's go."
When we got to the house, Dr. Vance went right into the bedroom and Ma came out to talk to me.
"She's doing alright John. Dr. Vance needs to make sure the baby's alright." Ma said and nodded. With the door open, I couldn't understand what Dr. Vance said, but what I could hear was every groan Liv made. Occasionally she would muffle a scream. I cringed when I heard her. Ma went back in the room with her, but Pa squeezed my shoulder.
"I know how it feels to sit while your loved ones are in pain."
"I want to do something Pa."
"I know son." I walked into the bedroom and stood on the bedroom steps. Olivia was beat red and covered in sweat. She smiled at me when she glanced up at me. Before I could smile back, she gasped for air and cried out again. Dr. Vance turned to me.
"We can't move her John." He paused. "She's strong and the child's healthy. I don't see any reason why your child can't be born on the mountain."
"Oh John." Olivia called out to me. I walked over to her.
"It's alright Liv. You can get through this. I'll be here."
"Daddy?" I heard behind me. I turned around and saw Erin standing in the doorway. I walked over to her and picked her up. We walked outside into the barn. "Is Mama alright?" I tried to smile for her.
"She's alright Erin. All mamas have to go through it." Erin looked at me as I tucked her hair behind her ear.
"Then I never want to be a mama." I laughed.
"That's your choice Erin."
"I wish Mama would feel better." I pulled her onto my lap.
"She will soon Erin. Then you'll have a brother or sister."
"I want a sister." Erin smiled. "Somebody needs my dolls. I'm not a little girl anymore." I chuckled.
"Are you okay?"
"As long as Mama is; I don't like hearing her cry like that." I hugged her. I wanted to console Erin and Liv the same; but I could hold Erin in my arms and make her feel better. Olivia was facing hers all alone.
"I know." I said. I put Erin down and walked back into the house. This child would bring happiness in with her smile if we could get past Liv's tears.