Page 65 of Safe at Home

“Sorry, honey. You’ve been in labor for sixteen hours, and I was starving. When Dom texted me that it was go time, I just rushed up here.”

“Did you get me a piece?” my brother asked from my other side. He had been here during the whole labor and was very supportive and helpful.

“Yeah, man. I put it on the table.”

“Thanks, Stone!” Dominic said and picked up his piece of pizza.

“I hate you both!” I screamed as another contraction rolled through me and consumed my whole belly.

Tyler discarded his half-eaten pizza on the table and came over to take my hand with his greasy one. “You couldn’t even wash your hand?”

“Sorry. I figured being here with you was more important.”

“I can’t believe you did this to me!”

“Here’s a wet washcloth for you, Ty. Wipe off your greasy hand,” Dominic said.

“That washcloth was actually for her forehead,” the nurse said with a shake of her head.

“Thanks, man.”

“I heard we’re ready to push!” A male voice that did not belong to my regular doctor said.

“Oh, yeah, surprise!” Tyler exclaimed. “Rob is going to deliver your baby!”

“What?” I asked, in shock. “I thought he was an orthopedic surgeon.”

“I had to do obstetrics in residency,” Rob said as he pulled a stool up between my legs.

“I want my doctor. We talked about this and how I’m more comfortable with a female doctor!” I said. This was not okay! “I hate you for this idea, Tyler Elliott Stone!”

“But he’s family!” Tyler answered back. “I thought you’d be happy. And see! Here is my sister to assist him!”

“You’ll be fine, Molly,” Julia said.

“Yes, Dr. Moseley is a very good doctor,” the nurse said. “You’re in good hands.”

Another contraction hit me. The tightness felt like I was going to explode.

“PUSH NOW!” Rob yelled. “Oh, is that the pizza from the place across the street? I want a bite.”

“Here you go, man,” Dom said and held out the pizza for him to take a bite since Rob’s hands were busy checking me.

I was outraged and squeezed Tyler’s hand so hard that he groaned. My head fell back against the pillow as I let out a loud roar.

“I see a head of red hair!” Rob said, “Keep pushing.”

The nurse stood next to Dominic and began counting for me to push in a very obnoxious sing-song voice. “I can’t do this!” I yelled.

“I’m here! I’m here!” I heard a female voice call from outside the door. “She’ll want me in there with her.”

“Let her in! Let her in!” I felt tears spring to my eyes. “You made it just in time!”

“Hi, sweetheart!” with her redhead swept in a clip she gracefully entered the room and gave Dominic a quick hug. “Thank you for being here in my place. You’re such a good brother. I’m so proud of you!”

“Thanks!” Dom said. “Of course, I would be here for Molly.”

She leaned down and kissed my forehead. Then she lay a cool washcloth against my head, and I suddenly felt at ease. I needed her here. She took my hand, and I was able to push one last time.

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