Page 92 of Can We Try?

She reaches into the bag and pulls out what looks like a knitted blanket in a variety of shades of blue. “There’s more,” she says, and she pulls out another one of the exact same. “There’s another card.” This time she opens it and starts to read.

* * *

My dearest Maggie,

* * *

I know life doesn’t always work out the way we want it to, so I thought this second card for an explanation would be nice, just in case. I know my time here on earth is growing smaller every day, and I want you to understand why there are two blankets.

* * *

I know you, my granddaughter, and if my time on earth has passed, I know what you’re thinking. You’re already thinking you can’t use this blanket because it’s the last gift to you and the only one from me to your son. You want to preserve it, and me, I want both. So, you have one for you to preserve and one for you to use every day for that beautiful baby boy.

* * *

If you’re reading this, that means that I’ve gone to be with Grandpa Tom and your parents, so I want you to know I have another gift for you. There are two pink blankets just like this one in the hall closet. In case you have a little girl in the future. I want both of your children to be wrapped in my love.

* * *

You’re going to be the best mommy, and with Lachlan at your side, I know your kids are going to be something special.

* * *

I love you, my sweet granddaughter.

* * *

Grandma Doris

* * *

I’m holding my breath for her reaction, but again, she surprises me with a watery smile as she wipes the tears from her cheeks. “She knew I would need this.”

“Yeah,” I agree.

“I miss her so much.”

“I know, baby. I do too.” I give her a side hug, and then she stands.

“Okay.” She blows out a breath, even as her smile wobbles. “We’ve got work to do.”’

“Maggie, we can stop for the day.”

“No. I want to do this. I need to do this. This is what she would want. I know that she would want me to keep on living for her. For all of them. I know that I’m not alone, that I have you and our friends, and your parents, and this little one.” She rubs at her belly. “I’m okay, Lachlan.”

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Chapter

Twenty-One

Maggie

* * *

Strong arms wrap around me from behind, and I know it’s him.

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