Page 46 of Marrying Emma

He wanted that for her, too. That she was even discussing it was a huge step. But this whole talking over the phone wasn’t working for him. He stood, made sure his keys were in his pocket, and walked toward the front of his house. “Can I come over, Emma? Maybe we could go for a walk?”Please say yes, honey.

There was a pause that seemed to last an eternity before she finally said, “Yeah. I’d like that.”

“I’m on my way. I’ll see you in a few minutes.”

“Sounds good. Bye.”

“Bye.”

By the time the phone call ended, Marty was already getting into his truck and starting the ignition. It wasn’t long before he pulled up to the curb in front of Emma’s house. He was just getting out when both Emma and Mrs. Laughlin exited the house as though they were in a hurry. “Is everything okay?”

“Wyatt called, and Chrissy is in labor. They’re at the hospital.” Emma’s voice sounded both excited and anxious.

Mrs. Laughlin fumbled with unlocking Emma’s car.

Marty jogged over to Emma. “I’ll follow you ladies to the hospital.”

“We’re likely going to wait there until the baby’s born,” Emma told him.

“Then I’ll wait with you. At least for a while. If that’s okay with you.”

To his relief, she nodded immediately. “I’d like that.”

“Okay.” He reached over and squeezed her hand. “I’ll see you there.”

Once they arrived at the hospital, the three of them spoke to the information center and made their way to the second floor where the maternity ward was located. Mrs. Laughlin sent a text as they found chairs in the waiting room.

Less than fifteen minutes later, one of the large doors swung open and Wyatt emerged. “Hey, guys. I’m glad you’re here.” He gave Mrs. Laughlin and Emma a hug before reaching out to shake Marty’s hand. “Chrissy is doing well. She’s been cramping since last night. Turns out, the cramps were contractions. She’s already at five centimeters. It’s hard to know how long it’ll be, though.”

Mrs. Laughlin nodded. “Please tell her we’re praying for you all. We’ll be out here waiting anxiously.”

“I’ll tell her.” Wyatt glanced at the door. “I’m going to get back in there. I’ll try to keep you updated.”

“Please do. But your number one priority is Chrissy. As it should be.” Mrs. Laughlin smiled at him. “Now go. We’ll see the three of you later.”

Wyatt gave a wave and jogged across the room to disappear behind the door again.

Emma looked at her mom. “And now we wait.”

“Yes. It’ll likely be hours.” Mrs. Laughlin held her hands out. “Come. Let us pray for Wyatt, Chrissy, and the baby.”

Marty took one of her hands and then waited for Emma to place hers in the other. Mrs. Laughlin lifted the family of three up in prayer, asking for wisdom for the doctors, strength for Chrissy, and health for the new baby.

“Be with them and surround them with your love and protection. In the name of your Son, Jesus, we pray.”

“Amen.” All three of them spoke the word at the same time.

Hands dropped. Mrs. Laughlin took her large bag off her shoulder and found a chair facing the door Wyatt had gone back through. She looked first at Emma and then Marty. “Would the two of you find me a cup of coffee? Feel free to take the scenic route. We have plenty of time.”

Emma raised a brow but nodded her agreement.

“I’ll come help you,” Marty said and fell in step with Emma. Once they were out of earshot of Mrs. Laughlin, he said, “I meant a walk around the neighborhood. But I suppose a hospital will do.”

Emma wrapped her arms around her middle. “I hate hospitals. Spent way too much time in them. There’s something about the smell.” She wrinkled her nose.

“I can imagine.” Marty hated seeing her this uncomfortable. He put an arm around her shoulders and tucked her close as they walked. “And all the beeping monitors. I was only in a hospital for two weeks, and I still heard phantom beeping for days after I got home.” He gave her a gentle squeeze. “But this is a joyous reason to be here. You’re going to meet your nephew.” He grinned down at her. “How amazing is that going to be?”

That coaxed a smile. “Yeah, that’s going to be pretty awesome. I’ll be glad when he’s here and everyone is good.”

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