Page 87 of Shadows of Recovery

“Once Eleanor is done here, Emma, I’d like to examine you,” Kay said, her voice calm and professional. “How far along are you? And when were you examined last?”

Emma looked up, her expression a mix of concern and trust. “Old Doc Jensen looked at me a few months ago. I’ve got another four or five weeks to go.”

Kay did her best to hide her shock and maintain a composed demeanor. “Okay, that’s good to know. I’ll take a look at you now, and then we can go to my office so I can ask you some questions.”

Eleanor finished drawing the blood and stepped back, giving Kay a nod. “All done here, Dr. Kay.”

“Thank you, Eleanor,” Kay replied, appreciating the support.

Damon helped Emma lie back on the exam table, her hands resting on her belly. Kay moved to her side, putting on a pair of gloves. She gently palpated Emma’s abdomen, feeling for the position of the baby.

“How have you been feeling, Emma?” Kay asked, her tone gentle. “Any pain or discomfort?”

“Just the usual, I think,” Emma said, her voice a little shaky. “Some back pain, and I get tired a lot. But nothing too bad.”

Kay nodded, continuing her examination. She hadn’t done a pap smear since her residency. “That’s pretty normal, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. Have you noticed any swelling, headaches, or vision changes?”

“No, nothing like that,” Emma replied, watching Kay’s movements closely.

Kay finished her examination and helped Emma sit up. “Everything seems fine from what I can see. We will know more when we get the cultures back. I’d like to do a more thorough questionnaire in my office.”

Emma nodded, clearly reassured by Kay’s calm and professional demeanor. “Okay, whatever you think is best.”

Kay smiled, trying to ease Emma’s worries. “Let’s head to my office.”

As they walked to her office, Kay’s mind was already working on a plan. She needed to get the test results back as soon as possible and start any necessary treatment. Once they reached her office, Kay motioned for Emma and Damon to sit down. Damon stayed standing.

“Emma, I want to ask you some questions about your medical history, your current pregnancy and your previous births.” Kay sat down across from her. “It’s important for me to get a complete picture so I can provide the best care for you and your baby.”

Damon placed a hand on Emma’s shoulder. She nodded, looking a little nervous but willing to cooperate. “Okay, what do you need to know?”

“First, do you have any chronic health conditions? Diabetes, hypertension, anything like that?” Kay asked, her pen poised over a notepad.

“No, I’ve always been pretty healthy,” Emma replied.

“And how has this pregnancy been compared to your previous ones?” Kay continued. “Any complications or concerns?”

“It’s been about the same.” Emma’s hand rested protectively on her belly. “No major issues.”

Kay nodded, making notes. “That’s good to hear. And what about your diet and activity level? Are you able to get enough rest and nutrition?”

Emma shrugged slightly. “I try to eat well and rest when I can, but it’s hard sometimes with everything going on.”

“Going on?” Kay saw Damon squeeze her shoulder.

“The two other kids,” she mumbled.

Kay gave her a reassuring smile. “That’s understandable. Just do your best, and we’ll keep an eye on things.” She knew not to ask her if she felt safe at home. She disregarded the question on the list.

Kay inhaled deeply through her nose. “Now, about the testing we did today. If there’s anything that comes up, we’ll address it right away. My goal is to ensure a healthy delivery for you and your baby.”

Emma nodded, visibly more relaxed. “Thank you, Dr. Kay. I appreciate it.”

“Yes, we appreciate it,” Damon said before walking out the door with his wife.

Thirty-Four

Kay settled back into her chair, taking a moment to process Damon Whitlock. A soft knock on the door startled her, and Eleanor stepped in, closing the door behind her.

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