Page 19 of A New Year Baby

“Wait a second,” says Mr. Frost. “Did you just say that sweet little girl over there is Jack’s kid?”

“Well, who else would she be, dear.” Mrs. Frost sighs. “Honey, we’ve talked about this—your memory really is a mess lately.”

“Nonsense, woman. I’m fit as a fiddle.”

I step into the kitchen then, alerting them to my presence.

They both turn to look at me.

“Is Jack okay?” I ask them both, softly.

Mrs. Frost shakes her head, and I can see the worried look on her face. “I don’t know, sweetie. I called Doctors without Borders and they kept saying they would get back to me with more information later. I guess… they must not know, either.”

I recall what happened to my brother. I begin to feel anxiety filling my chest. But I know it’s probably worse for his parents.

“Don’t worry,” I tell them both. “Jack is strong and smart, and resourceful. He’ll be back home soon.”

Tears fill Mrs. Frost’s eyes. “If you say that, Stella, then I believe it. You know my boy better than anyone.”

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