The Things We Do for Love

"Of course. " Angie gazed down at Lauren sadly. The girl looked so young right now; her eyes were full of a hope that seemed brand-new. Angie pulled her into a fierce hug. For a heartbeat, she couldnt let go. Finally, she took a deep breath and stepped back. "Youre here just in time. Today is Aunt Giulias birthday. Ive made three blueberry cobblers--which no one except you and Conlan will eat. " She reached out for Lauren, and then said quietly, "Come on. We dont want to be late. "

Lauren swallowed hard. A quivering smile curved her lips even as she started again to cry. "I love you, Angie. "

"I know that, honey. It hurts like hell sometimes, doesnt it?"

Together, hand in hand, they walked across the wet grass and went into the house.

Lauren immediately went to the stereo and turned on the music. It was still set to her favorite station. An old Aerosmith song pulsed through the speakers, rocked the house with sound. She turned it down quickly, but not fast enough.

Conlan came thundering down the stairs, stumbled into the living room. "What the hells the racket?"

Lauren froze, looked up at him. Her smile slipped. "Hey, Conlan, I--"

He ran across the room and pulled her into his arms. He twirled her around until both of them were laughing. "Its about time," he said.

"Shes back," Angie said, patting the baby gently, smiling at the noise. She looked over at the Winnie-the-Pooh lamp on the counter. At last it would light a babys room. "Our girls come home. "