One to Take (One to Hold 8)

“Winona said you’re seeing one of the best doctors in the city.”

“Do you think she’ll tell Bill where we went?”

“She barely even speaks half the time.” Sylvia waves a hand before returning it to the steering wheel. “You don’t have to worry about her.”

Looking out the window, I think of Sylvia’s question about us being here, living in this remote wilderness. I think of working with the horses and riding them this morning, I felt like I was in heaven. Thinking back, another little surge of pride hits me over being able to saddle and bridle Cheyenne all by myself.

When we got back to the barn, I took all her gear off, brushed her down, and even scraped her hooves, although that part still has me a bit skittish. We’d been scraping Freckles’ hooves when she reared back and nearly kicked me.

Before I left for the house to meet Sylvia and leave for this doctor’s appointment, I’d taken one last peek at my new little friend. She seemed to remember me, because when I stood at the door to her stall, she turned her pretty grey head in my direction and took a few steps forward.

I didn’t have an apple, so I couldn’t entice her. Still, I was so gratified and encouraged. Stuart wants to go to the cabin, and I want to be with him in our special, sacred place when I give him this amazing news. After that, it’s back to the ranch and his promise to teach me how to train her.

If I can be a real horsewoman, I don’t see why living in Montana couldn’t be such a fulfilling experience. I’ll have my man, my family, my art, and a special skill I’ve only ever dreamed of possessing with these magical creatures I love.

“Your blood sugar levels are very good, and your weight seems to be right on track for twelve weeks.” Dr. Brown leans back, looking over my chart. She has greying black hair and tanned skin. “It’s time to do an ultrasound and some routine tests.”

My heart stutters, and I sit up fast. “Do we have to do the ultrasound today?”

We’ve listened to the baby’s heartbeat, measured its growth, and checked me from head to toe. I want Stuart with me for the first ultrasound.

Dr. Brown glances at Sylvia and back to me before returning to the chart. “It’s all routine for this stage of your pregnancy, nothing to be alarmed about.”

“I understand. It’s just… I’d like to have the father with me for the first ultrasound.” A quiet sniff above my shoulder draws my attention like a magnet. “Sylvia! Are you crying?”

“Oh, stop,” she waves at me, eyes shining. “I’m not made of stone. You’re carrying my grandchild!”

Reaching out for her hand, my eyes heat as we share this moment.

“You haven’t told the father yet?” My new doctor’s forehead lines.

“I wanted to wait until we were sure. I mean, until everything was certain.” I feel idiotic voicing my fears.

Dr. Brown’s face relaxes into a smile, and she squeezes my arm. “Sweetie, this pregnancy is as solid as it can be.”

Another loud sniff from Sylvia causes me to laugh as tears flood my eyes. “Thank you!” I whisper before clearing my throat. “Would it be possible to come back later this week with him and do it?”

“Of course!” the doctor says, and the two women stand to leave the room while I get dressed. “If you like, you can have your blood drawn today. That way it’s done when you come back.”

I agree as they exit for me to change. When I’m alone in the room, I have to take a moment to let the truth of what she said wash over me. It’s official. I’m definitely going to have a baby. A baby! Our baby…

Covering my face with my hands, I let the tears fall. We’re a family. Moving my hands to my stomach, I glide my palms over my skin before hugging my midsection. I can’t wait to tell Stuart.

5

Wishes

Stuart

An enlarged photograph of wild mustangs running through brown grasses hangs on the wall behind Bill’s desk. I study it, looking for animals I recognize.

“Feeling nostalgic?” My uncle’s voice always carries an easy wisdom, no pressure, always aware.

“This was the herd Freckles came from.” I spot her white face and black mane toward the center of the group of seven.

Bill walks to the photograph and studies it a moment. He’s as tall as I am and just as lean. Today he’s dressed in cowboy boots and jeans, same as me, and a faded plaid shirt.

“She wasn’t native to that herd. I only kept her to prevent her from being injured or stolen.”