Page 63 of Coral Memories

Brooke wheeled in her produce in a wagon. “Thanks for covering for me. I still have a truckload to bring in.” Catching sight of Kai, she frowned. “Kai, sweetheart, what’s wrong?”

“My back is so sore it was impossible to get comfortable last night. This morning, I stood in a hot shower forever, but it hasn’t helped. It’s getting worse. And I’ve got some weird muscle cramps going on. This kiddo is two weeks late, and I’m gettingtired of her mischief and acrobatics. We’re going to have a heart-to-heart talk when she arrives.”

“Show me where you’re sore.” Frowning with concern, Brooke placed her hand where Kai pointed and nodded. “Those might be contractions, and you could be in early labor. You should call your doctor now to see if you should go to the hospital. Have Axe meet you there.”

Kai’s eyes grew wide. “I tried him a few minutes ago, but he’s on a job site outside of town that doesn’t have good reception. What am I going to do?”

“Marina and I can take you.” Ginger took Kai’s arm, steadying her. “Deep breaths, darling. Let’s go somewhere quiet to call your doctor.”

“Do you think it’s really time?” Kai asked, sucking in a panicked breath.

“You are overdue,” Brooke said gently.

“I thought Axe would be with me. We had everything planned.” Kai gripped her sisters’ hands. “Please come with me, Brooke. You’re the one with the most experience at this. I can’t do this without you.”

Brooke hugged her. “I’ll unload the truck while you call your doctor. If she tells you to come in, I’ll have Cookie cover our spot, and I’ll meet you at the hospital.”

“Thank you,” Kai whispered, hugging her.

As Ginger guided Kai to a nearby bench, her granddaughter began shaking. She knew Kai’s earlier health concerns were adding to her anxiety.

“I’m not ready,” Kai said, easing onto the bench. “I thought I was, but what if something goes wrong?” With trembling hands, she called her doctor and explained how she felt. After a few moments, she hung up. “She told me to come now.”

Ginger exchanged a glance with Marina, who was already pulling out her phone to call Axe.

Turning back to Kai, Ginger put her arm around her. “You’ve discussed all the possibilities with your doctor. Everything points to a safe delivery.”

Ginger could feel the tension knotted in Kai’s shoulders. “Remember your breathing classes? Let’s do that together now. And Marina, bring the car closer. We’ll meet you at the exit.”

“Right away. I’ll try Axe, too.” Marina sprinted off.

The busy market faded into the background as Ginger focused on Kai, helping her through the breathing exercises to stay as calm as possible.

“Relax, and take your time,” Ginger said, guiding Kai toward the exit. “Remember, deep breaths.”

Kai quirked a worried grin. “I’m trying, but I feel like I have a basketball under my ribs.”

Ginger smiled at her. “Listen to you, cracking jokes. We’re almost there.”

Marina parked her Mini Cooper steps from the exit and opened the door.

“Any luck reaching Axe?” Ginger asked.

Shaking her head, Marina replied, “The call keeps dropping.”

Slowing to get into the car, Kai groaned. “What if he doesn’t make it in time?”

“We’ll reach him, and he’ll be with you soon,” Ginger assured her. “First babies usually take time to arrive.”

Kai’s eyes flew wide again. “Will I have time to get my bag at home?”

“We’re going straight to the hospital, dear.” Although earlier tests were fine, Ginger knew the physician was concerned that complications could develop.

Huffing, Kai squeezed into the small car. “Why aren’t you driving an SUV?”

“I’ll be sure to get one next time you’re pregnant,” Marina replied.

Kai frowned at her. “Why do you sound like you’re enjoying this?”

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