Chapter 34: Chapter 34

ODETTE

“Everything looks fine; you’re healing well after we took out the stitches. I think you can go back to all normal activities starting next week. How is your arm?” the doctor asked.

“Other than being in an annoying cast, it’s good.”

“Don’t forget to have your regular care provider look at it,” the doctor reminded me.

“Now, let’s look at little missy here. Do you have any concerns?”

“No, she seems to be doing well. She doesn’t sleep as much anymore, and she has been eating more frequently,” I added.

“I can tell; she gained about a pound since the last appointment. It’s good progress. She seems to be developing well too. How is the oxygen?” the doctor asked.

“She only uses it at night; the rest of the time, we have a pulse oximeter to measure her vitals while napping.”

“Well, keep doing what you’re doing, and I’ll see you guys in a few weeks,” the doctor said as she put Caroline down.

“Actually, I have a question. How long do you recommend waiting before trying to have another baby?” I asked.

“Ideally a year. While your body seems good on the outside, the inside is still healing.”

I wanted Caroline to have a sibling, and I wanted to give Reece a biological child. I know he doesn’t care, but it’s what I want with him.

Reece went back to work, meaning it was just Caroline and me running errands. The number one thing on my list was to stop by and talk to James and give him my notice. It would also be the first time most of them saw Caroline. Olivia was the only one to stop by. Everyone else sent gifts, texted, or called.

“I’m so happy you brought the baby,” Olivia squealed as I stopped at her cubicle.

“Don’t scare her,” I said, shushing Olivia.

“Can I hold her?”

“Actually, do you mind watching her while I talk to James?” I asked.

“Of course. Go do whatever you want and leave this little princess to me.”

I smiled at the interaction between Olivia and Caroline. I’m glad she’s going to have another woman in her life.

James’s door was closed, so I knocked.

“Come in,” James said.

“You’re early.”

“Sorry, I came after my appointment,” I said with a smile.

“Don’t apologize, I needed a break from these damn numbers,” James replied.

“I wanted to talk to you about my future here. Reece and I decided it would be best if I stayed home with Caroline. After my maternity leave, I’ll stay on for a while to help you fill my position.”

“I knew this was coming. I’m sad to lose you, but I’m thankful you’re letting me know in advance,” James stated.

“I’m also willing to do some work from home while I’m on my leave, so we don’t get too far behind.”

“You don’t need to do that. Besides, it’s illegal to be working while on maternity leave. If I have you for at least a month when you come back, we will be fine,” James assured me.

“I can agree to that. Caroline is with Olivia right now; would you like to see her?” I asked.

“Yes. I also have something for you. I can bring it later; it’s a baby gift.”

“How about Reece and I have you and Laurie over for dinner one night?” I suggested.

“We do need to keep in touch once you leave.”

***

“How did everything go today?” Reece asked as he kissed me and walked over to the playpen to see Caroline.

“It went well. The doctor was happy with everything. She said I should be able to resume normal activities next week.”

I used air quotes for “normal activities” so that Reece could get the hint.

“Only if you feel up to it. I don’t want you to feel forced,” Reece said. It wasn’t the reaction I was hoping for, but I knew he just didn’t want to hurt me.

“I’m not. I miss being intimate with you.”

I walked over to him and kissed him. I wanted him to know I was ready for him, that I didn’t feel forced.

“I also asked about the recommended time between having children. She said to wait at least a year.”

“You want to have more kids?” Reece asked.

I nodded. “I want to have a large family with you, Reece. I love you, and I want to give you children.”

This time it was him kissing me. He kissed me hard and passionately.

“Let’s get married tomorrow,” he whispered, pulling away from the kiss.

“Really?”

“Yes, I want you forever.”

“Okay, let’s do this,” I said.