Page 48 of Upshot

“Okay. But I think I’ll go to the city archives and see what I can dig up on this building. That sounds like a better use of my time. Would that be a help?”

“That would be a huge help.” He pulls me to him and kisses my forehead. “Have the car stay there in case you get tired. We can cab over later. I’ll take video and pictures so you can see it.” I don’t know if it will be much help, but I appreciate the encouragement anyway. It’s nice to be told you’re useful.

He joins the rest of the group after I assure him twice I’ll be fine. I watch as they walk inside.

I admit, I’m a little jealous. The idea of discovering what treasures this school holds is exciting. There could be old chalkboards, gym equipment, and even pencil boxes left behind when it closed.

But I agree with Rand. I don’t want to take a chance of doing anything that would harm the baby. Sounds like we’re turning into parents.

The car drops me off at the city library, which seemed like the best place to start. I send the driver back to Rand after a brief argument. Believe it or not, I still don’t need a babysitter. I’m just as capable of catching a cab as the next guy. Besides, I spot a coffee shop down the street and could kill for some tea. Wouldn’t mind a danish either.

“Welcome. What can I get for you today?” a warm voice greets me when I walk inside.

“I’m thinking a cup of chamomile, please. And a blueberry scone.” I pay and find a seat by the window. The sun streams inside. I rub my belly where it’s being punched by my active little kicker.

“How far along?” a woman at the next table asks.

“Right at eight months.”

“Not long now. Is this your first?”

“Yes. I’m a little anxious about knowing what to do when this little one finally gets here.” I don’t know why I’m admitting this to a stranger. Although sometimes it’s easier to talk about our fears to someone anonymous. She seems sweet. I would guess she is in her midsixties. Her smile is warm, and she has compassionate eyes.

“I was the same, but we all figure it out in the end. Do you know if it’s a boy or a girl?”

“No.” I laugh. “We talked about finding out. But life got busy, and we never did. I guess it’ll just be a wonderful surprise.”

“Those are the best kind of surprises. Do you have names all picked out?”

“Oh my gosh! I’m already failing at this. I haven’t even thought about names yet.” I’m a horrible mother.

She laughs. “You have time. I didn’t name my fifth one until the day after having him.”

“You have five?”

“I do.” I must have a look of horror on my face because she laughs again. The image of Rand and me chasing five kids around the house flashes through my brain. I don’t think we’re cut out for that. I’m not opposed to practicing making that many though.

“Let me give you some advice,” she says. “Just remember to relax and enjoy them while they’re young. They grow up so fast. And whenever you’re at the end of your rope, remember you are still the most important person in their life.” She stands. “It’s been nice visiting with you. Good luck.”

“Thank you,” I say before she walks out the door. I take a deep breath. She’s right. I can do this. It feels more and more like Rand and I are becoming a team.

I still have my reservations about him wanting to ultimately stay in Dansboro Crossing. But I can also see how hard he’s trying to make us a family. Lately, I’m starting to see us together when the baby arrives.

I don’t know what the future will bring, but I know I want to find out with Rand by my side. Soon I need to tell him that I’m falling in love and let the chips fall where they may.

I finish my tea. Gathering my things, I head back to the library. I can’t wait to hear about what they found inside the school building. I want to have something for them too. I want to show I can be a valuable member of the team. For Rand to rely on me as much as I’ve come to rely on him.

* * *

RAND

We return to the hotel to find Brontë asleep on one of the beds. When she agreed to come, I changed our room to a suite. As much as I want to lecture her about sending the driver back, she’s just too beautiful to disturb. Carefully, I pull the door to the room closed and join Peter on the couch.

“Is she alright?” Pete asks.

“Yeah. She’s not sleeping great anymore. Between the indigestion and kicking, she’s up all night.”

“The baby’s kicking, or are you referring to your nighttime antics?”

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