Page 7 of Abundant Moon
Momentarily stunned by the energetic whirlwind, Katrine found herself speechless. Mandy stepped out from behind the overstuffed register to answer for both of them.
“Hello Carol Jo. Jonah mentioned you might stop by, and we’re about to close up for the day. We’re due by the end of the month, but it could be any time now.”
Carol Jo set the bags down on the counter, more interested in the conversation than the gifts.
“How exciting! Holiday babies are so special, though the poor dears rarely get to celebrate their actual birthday in the middle of such a busy season. Anyway, you both lookwonderfuland I can’t wait to meet your little ones. Do you have what you need? You’re not facing this all alone are you?”
Katrine managed to get her bearings, wondering how much she should share.
“We’re all set for the big day and have plenty of support if we need it. Thank you for asking.”
Carol Jo smiled tenderly, reaching over to place a manicured hand on Katrine’s arm.
“It’s the least I can do, honey. I’m a bit worried about how you’re going to handle the shop and two little ones at the same time. I have three of my own and five grandchildren, so I know how difficult it can be. Tell me, are the babies fathers in the picture at all?”
Neither of them expected the question, and they couldn’t tell a human about Honor Mates or Ryan’s death in the battle for Gladstone. Katrine choked up, taking refuge in her mate’s soothing embrace. Mandy managed to snag a tissue and turned a watery gaze on Carol Jo.
“No, the uh... sperm donor was a dear friend of ours who passed away shortly after we conceived. We have our friends at the preserve watching after us, so we’ll be fine.”
Carol Jo raised a hand to her throat, eyes glistening.
“Oh dear! I’ve gone and said something I shouldn’t. I’m so sorry for your loss. Remember you can count on me if you needanything– anything at all.”
The women paused to dry their eyes and noses and then Carol Jo gestured to the gift bags on the counter.
“I wanted to bring these by before you delivered or the holidays arrived. It’s just a few little things I hope you’ll like. Remember what I said now – call me if I can help, and Merry Christmas!”
Amid thanks and waves goodbye, Carol Jo slipped out, leaving the girls alone for the first time all day. Mandy put up the ‘CLOSED’ sign, locked the door, and gently guided her mate away from the front windows and prying eyes. They threw their arms around each other in an awkward double-bubble hug, comforted by warmth and familiar scent. This wouldn’t be the last time they were reminded of losing Ryan, but it hurt more with the babies due any day and their hormones all over the place.
They drew back for a quick kiss and started laughing at the same time. For a human, Carol Jo Dowling was a complex personality – perceptive, surprising, thoughtful, and refreshingly unique. They knew from both word and scent her concern and interest were genuine and heartfelt. Whether or not she shared the story of their offspring’s parentage remained to be seen. If she did, it might quiet some of the more creative gossip going around regarding the lesbian couple who got pregnant at the same time and from who knows where or why in the first place. Let them talk. It didn’t matter in the end anyway.
It took only a few minutes to lock up the cash drawer and close down for the night. They’d barely started the drive home when Katrine’s phone rang. Since she was behind the wheel tonight, Mandy picked it up and smiled - Ryan’s mother.
“Hello, Patty. We’re in the car, and I’ve got you on speaker.”
“It’s good to hear your voice! Ken and I are looking for an update. How are you doing?”
Mandy answered for both of them.
“Getting bigger by the day and feeling good. Doc Follett says definitely before the end of the month. I think we’re ready!”
Patty’s chuckle came through clearly.
“I understand. Those last few weeks are the worst, I think. It’s hard to get comfortable or get enough rest, and your bladder working overtime doesn’t help any. How’s the shop doing?”
Katrine piped up from the driver’s seat.
“The days are long and busy, but sales are through the roof. The extra money will help tide us over after the babies arrive. We’ve decided to close for two weeks, and then only open up half days until spring.”
“I like that idea. You’re going to need some extra time as a family, just to get used to things if nothing else. I called to ask if Ken and I may come for a visit after you deliver. We’d love to see you and stay for a few days, if you don’t mind and the weather cooperates.”
The Winns lived several hours away in Minnesota and were unlikely to make it for the actual delivery, especially if the roads were bad. The girls had been hoping they’d drive in after the fact, and both of them smiled as Mandy responded.
“Yes! We’d love to have you here. You’re on the shortlist to call when the big day comes, though you might not get a lot of notice.”
“Wonderful! We can’t wait, and can leave almost anytime. Ryan’s brothers and sisters send their love. See you soon!”
Mandy ended the call and made a mental note to ask Ben where the Winns could stay while they were visiting. Their two-bedroom apartment wasn’t big enough for two adults, two infants,andguests. Besides, they’d need some privacy and space to relax. On the remainder of the short drive they discussed going for a quick run later if the wind died down, maybe followed by a warm bubble bath. Katrine reached across the seat to lay her hand on Mandy’s thigh, and the shared flare of desire spoke of another pleasant way to spend the evening.
