Page 120 of Axe-identally Married
When we were alone, Cole wrapped his arms around me, knowing exactly what I needed.
“I was so terrified,” I admitted into his chest. “It’s been years since I delivered a baby.”
He tipped my chin up. “You? Terrified? How? You were so calm. You knew exactly what you were doing.”
“It’s my training. I’ve had lots of practice. By now, it kicks in and takes over. But, shit.” I put my forehead on his chest and exhaled. “That would have been a difficult delivery. She needs to be in a hospital for it.”
“You were incredible.”
I tried not to bristle. His praise felt misplaced. I hadn’t done much. In fact, the only reason I’d made it here alive was because of him. There was no way I could have driven the snowmobile in these conditions. After tonight, I only had more respect for my dad, if that was possible. He’d gone out in many snowstorms to help patients and friends in need.
I patted his chest. “Let’s clean up here.”
We set to work, throwing the towels into the wash, quickly cleaning the floors, and turning off all the lights. I texted Jack to let him know Kara was en route to the hospital and things were going well.
“Thank you for coming,” I said as we locked up. “Having you here helped me stay calm.”
He blinked at me, surprise flashing in his eyes. “But I didn’t do anything.”
“You did,” I insisted. “I felt safe with you here. It’s because of you that I could be strong for Kara.”
His eyes softened and he pulled me down for a lingering kiss. “We make a good team. Now can I drive my wifey home?”
I nodded wearily. It was almost four a.m., and I was beat.
We secured the bags again and slipped our helmets on.
Eventually, we’d have to dig out and I’d go to work, but right now, all I wanted was a warm bed and this man by my side.
I climbed on, and as he fired the snowmobile up, I held tight to my husband.
The snow had let up a bit, and as we drove, I couldn’t help but marvel at the strange beauty of this winter night. Though I was sure Cole was as eager to get home as I was, his driving was careful, every move controlled and deliberate. As always, he put all his effort into caring for me. God, the thought made my heart squeeze.
My body had almost completely frozen when lights up ahead caught my attention. I squinted and—were those people?
I tapped Cole’s shoulder and pointed. With a nod, he headed in that direction. As we crept closer, the sign for Mountain Meadows, the trailer park in town, came into view. Just outside it on the embankment was a whole slew of construction equipment.
I steeled myself. Dammit, I hope no one was injured.
Cole slowed to a stop, the lights doing little to illuminate what was happening. A large pickup truck sat on the side of the road, and there was a snowmobile parked near it.
Once Cole cut the engine, I hopped off, removing my helmet as I rushed to the side of the road.
I waved my arms as I approached. “Excuse me. Do you all need help? I’m a doctor.”
Cole came up behind me, his long strides unbothered by the thick snow.
“Can we help?”
As we got closer, a person in dark clothing hopped onto the snowmobile. The engine roared, and then it took off at high speed.
My stomach twisted as I watched its taillights fade. That was odd.
“Can I help you?” a man barked as we got closer.
Cole pulled out his flashlight and shone it ahead.
Even out of uniform and with a winter hat pulled down, I recognized that face.
