Chap 9: Unexpected

The Johnsons celebrated Paige's third birthday with a cake, singing and generally making a fuss of her.  With her new found abilities she'd become even more fiercely independent.

"Daddy, don't blow candle" she commanded as Craig took her up to the table.

Ruby laughed as Craig exaggerated leaning to the side to give Paige a clear field.

At first, when Ruby felt ill the next morning, she thought must have been the effect of too much junk food, although desserts had never done that to her before.  When the nausea was repeated the following morning and on the fourth day, Ruby began to have her suspicions.  A trip to the doctor was in order.

Despite having entertained the thought in passing, Ruby was still shocked to be told she was "most definitely" pregnant again.

"At your age, we'll keep a close eye on you, but I don't expect any complications" Dr. Wilson told her kindly. "I'll send you to our new OB/GYN, Shirley Lin.  She'll take good care of you."

Craig appeared to take the news calmly.

"There's certainly been opportunity enough" he half-joked.

And it was true that while they hadn't specifically been trying, the fire was still hot.  Once they got used to the idea, both were happy that Paige wouldn't be an only child.

Ruby's second pregnancy was indeed uneventful, if ever the process of carrying a baby was ordinary.  Craig was once again all gentle attentiveness, taking as much of Paige's care as he could; especially when her growing girth made it difficult for Ruby to bend or carry her.

The morning (if three am can be rightly considered morning) Ruby's contractions started however, Craig freaked out.
"What do we do?" he panicked, while Ruby moaned in pain.
"Call the babysitter and a cab  ... and hurry!" Ruby managed as one contraction ended and another began.
Fumbling somewhat on his way to the kitchen, Craig found the required numbers on the refrigerator.
"They're on their way" he hurried back to reassure Ruby, who was attempting to maneuver the overnight bag to the front door.

In due course, Ruby was delivered of a healthy baby boy.  After some debate they decided on the name Connor.
As Craig lowered him into the cot for the first time he whispered
"Hello son.  Welcome home."
Ruby, who had been quietly watching from the doorway beamed with pride.