Page 92 of Mismatched

Unknown Sender

Anton told me you’re on bed rest, but if you don’t call me by this evening, I’m coming over.

That would be Caprice.

Unknown Sender

Heyyy, I know you’re out sick, but can I have next Friday off?

Unknown Sender

Lydia, my BABY. Call me immediately so I know you and my new grandbaby are all right. Have you started thinking of names?

Unknown Sender

Heard about the accident, glad you’re okay. Can we order more oatmeal shampoo this week?

“Guess I’m all reconnected now,” I say, rolling my eyes, but I’m also smiling. Gripping the phone gives me a sense of calm and control I’ve been longing for the past few days. “Thanks, Henry.”

He chuckles. “I admit, it’s a somewhat selfish gift, but I thought you’d appreciate it. I’ll write it off as a business expense.”

“I never thought I’d be so eager to manage employees and place shampoo orders.”

With that, Henry rises abruptly. “Well, I have been threatened with bodily harm if I stay and stress you for too long, so I’ll be off. Got to try and hold down the dog fort for a few more days.” He grimaces, but then looks at me, softening. “Things do seem to be healing up well, though?”

I give a tentative nod. “Looking good so far.”

“I’m truly glad.”

After he leaves and I’ve synced up my contacts, I start making lists. I want to talk to Marisol about how she navigated Paloma’s birth around her business. But I also consider asking my sister if she can spare a few minutes of coaching, if she’s still capable of that. And when Anton gets home, we should probably discuss childcare. Suddenly, five more months doesn’t seem like very much time to prepare.

I pause a moment, swiping back over to my messages where I pull up my husband’s name. After thinking a moment, I send him a GIF of a dog taking a phone call.

Anton

I see Henry delivered you from the Dark Ages.

Not a moment too soon. How’s your day going?

Anton

Work is dull. But I finally heard from that woman’s insurance company and it sounds like we get to go car shopping.

Yay?

Anton

How do you feel about minivans?

Don’t they have like eight seats?

Anton

Room for five more?

Is that a suggestion, Mr. Richie?

Anton

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