Page 108 of Nanny for the Doctor

“Well, here’s hoping that little one takes the hint and decides to come join us.” I nod at her belly.

We chat for a few moments, and Grace finishes her first meal before gently snoring as she falls asleep. I sigh, looking up at Johnny.

“Would you like to hold her?”

His eyes well up, and all he can do is nod.

Reed helps bring Grace to him, giving her a quick kiss before handing her over. Johnny is so careful and looks to Stevie with a smile when Grace is settled.

Stevie starts crying again, and I demand she come over and give me a hug immediately.

“Hi there, Grace.” Johnny rocks her slowly. “I’m Johnny. I’m going to be the best uncle ever. I’ll spoil you rotten, just like I do Henry.”

My brother looks over at him, and Henry smiles ridiculously big.

“Between the two of you,” I say, nodding at Reed as Stevie sits with me on the bed, “Grace isn’t going to want for anything.”

“Nope.” They say in unison, and Stevie and I smile.

Johnny’s going to be a dad in no time, and I know he’ll be amazing. Our growing family is so very lucky.

“Are Mom and Dad here?”

I stretch on the bed gingerly. Everything feels weird and sore in a way I just can’t describe.

“They were on their way, last I checked. Should be here any minute.”

After all their travels, taking the extended anniversary trip they’ve always dreamed of, they’re coming home to become first-time grandparents.

I can’t wait to actually see them. Delivering the news on the phone just wasn’t the same.

Cassie, my midwife, checks to make sure I’m doing okay, giving me the rundown of what I can and shouldn’t do, now that I’ve given birth.

And as promised, Reed gets me my first beer in months, and the taste nearly makes me cry again.

“It’ll help your milk come in,” Cassie adds, and we all chuckle. “Alright, little girl. Time to do the checkup.”

Just as she’s setting up all the items to run her first list of checks, I hear a commotion in the hallway.

“We’re here!”

My mom nearly sprints through the door, carrying a massive bundle of baby supplies stuffed in a basket and a giant stuffed bear.

“Mom!” I smile as she rushes to my side, squeezing me in a hug, and then she turns to see Grace.

“Oh, baby. She’s so beautiful. You did it.” Tears stream from her face. “My baby had a baby!”

“Oh, Mom.”

I shake my head, and my dad comes in, dipping low to hug me, then moving to Reed.

“Well done, Mae.” He shakes hands with Reed. “I still can’t believe you two are together.”

“Dad!” Johnny and I object.

“I didn’t say it was bad. I’m just still surprised, is all. You’re dating your brother’s best friend.”

I can’t help but laugh. Dad always did have a way of being incredibly blunt.

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