Page 35 of Bubbles at the Beach House Hotel

I picked her up and carried her to Liz’s room, where I found her lying on her bed, tears trailing down her cheeks.

She looked up at Olivia. “Oh, my word. What have you three been up to now?”

Olivia patted her cheeks. “Pretty.”

“No,” I said. “It’s for your teeth.” I set her down. “Go with the others. I’ll be right there.”

I sat on the edge of the bed and took hold of Liz’s hand. “Tell me what’s going on.”

“I’m spotting,” said Liz. “I’ve felt so tired lately. I’m worried this baby isn’t going to stay with me.”

“Try Dr. Benson’s office again. Did you tell them what was happening?”

“I just said I needed Dr. Benson’s advice,” said Liz. “I was crying too hard to say more.”

“Oh, here’s her office calling you now.” I handed the cell phone to Liz.

“Hi, Dr. Benson,” said Liz, trying not to cry. “My mom is here, and I’m putting you on speaker phone, okay?”

“Certainly. Now tell me, what’s going on?” Dr. Benson answered calmly.

Liz gave the doctor the details. “Is it true hurricanes can cause women to go into labor? Is the storm doing this to me?”

“There has long been anecdotal evidence of early labor and delivery in severe weather events leading to preterm birth. Significant barometric pressure changes are associated with hurricanes. But I don’t think that’s the case here,” said Dr. Benson kindly. “The first trimester can be tricky because of the changes to your body. Nature has a way of determining the viability of any pregnancy. I need to know exactly what’s going on with you.”

I listened as Liz gave Dr. Benson more details.

“Having three children under the age of four is difficult for anyone. I think the best you can do is take it easy as much as possible. I’m sure your mother will help you. Right, Ann?”

“Oh, yes,” I said. “I’ll see that she has help.”

“Try not to lift the children, and let’s see if this bit of rest will make a difference. What you’ve told me so far doesn’t make me believe that you’re having a miscarriage. But as soon as any changes take place, you’re to come right into the office to see me. You’re a strong, healthy woman, Liz. It’s common for some light spotting to occur. I’m here if you need me.”

The call ended, and I hugged Liz. “Let’s take care of you, and we’ll let nature do its job.”

Tears streamed down Liz’s face. “I feel so guilty about not wanting this baby at first. Maybe this is my punishment for feeling that way.”

I lifted her chin and made her look at me. “I don’t believe life works that way. Do you?”

Liz shook her head. “I guess not.” She caressed her stomach. “I promise to love this baby.”

“I have no doubt you will. I know you and Chad were surprised about it, but that’s all your reaction was. Surprise. Not anything awful. Look at the way you’re caressing your stomach. You’re already protecting this baby. That’s love, honey.”

Liz drew a deep breath. “I don’t care if it’s a boy or a girl. I just want this baby to be part of our family.”

“I know you do,” I said, hugging her. “Now, let’s see how the T’s are doing. Thank God, toothpaste is washable.”

“What about help for the next few days?” Liz said. “I know you’ll be busy at the hotel with the storm.”

“Why don’t I call Liana and see if she can stay here all week instead of working part-time for each of us? I’m sure I can get help with Robbie if needed.”

“Thanks. That would be such a relief. Liana is at class right now but should be here sometime soon.” Liz grinned. “In the meantime, my little brother might be very busy.”

“I’ll explain he needs to help,” I said, giving her a last, comforting squeeze. “Now, you rest as much as you can.”

I left her and went to the playroom.

“How about a snack?” I asked the triplets, opening the gate to their playroom.

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