Gabriel's Promise (Gabriel's Inferno 4)

The doctor ignored Gabriel and focused on Julia. “Are you trying to lose weight?”

Julia shook her head. “When I was in the hospital, I ate what they gave me. And I’ve been eating at home. I tried my jeans on yesterday and they fit, so I’m back to my normal size.”

“Some women are like that, but it’s rare.” Dr. Rubio withdrew a pen from her lab coat and began writing on a prescription pad. “I’m going to refer you to the hospital dietitian. I think you aren’t eating enough or you aren’t eating the right kinds of food, and so breastfeeding is playing havoc with your blood sugar.”

She signed the referral with a flourish and handed it to Julia. “If the dietitian can’t fit you in today, she’ll schedule an appointment. In the meantime, be sure to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Don’t skip meals. Don’t skimp on the protein or carbohydrates, but don’t eat a lot of sugary foods or drinks. Try to snack regularly so that your blood sugar doesn’t crash. If you pass out again, come to the emerg

ency room immediately.”

“Okay.” Julia sighed with relief.

Dr. Rubio studied her patient for a moment. “How are you feeling emotionally?”

Julia picked at the paper that covered the examination table. “I’ve felt a little overwhelmed.”

The doctor nodded. “That can happen. But remember to check in with yourself and if you are sad or anxious for a couple of days, come back. If you’re having thoughts that scare you, come to the emergency room immediately.”

The doctor gave Gabriel a significant look.

A muscle tightened in his jaw. He gazed at Julianne protectively.

“It was good to see you again.” Dr. Rubio smiled and closed Julia’s chart. “I’ll have my secretary schedule a follow-up with you in a couple of weeks. I’m so pleased to see that your baby is doing well. Have you scheduled a checkup with your pediatrician?”

“Yes,” said Julia. “At the one-month mark.”

“Excellent. I’ll see you in a couple weeks, but don’t hesitate to reach out immediately if something doesn’t feel right. Until then, take care.” The doctor took her leave and exited the room.

“She doesn’t like me.” Gabriel practically growled.

“How can anyone not like the handsome and famous Professor Emerson?” Julia teased, smiling.

“You’d be surprised,” he muttered. He transferred Clare to her baby carrier, carefully adjusting her hat. “I didn’t know about the baby’s checkup.”

“It’s in the calendar on my phone.” Julia began dressing.

Gabriel reached out and placed his hand against her cheek.

She lifted her face.

“Copy me on all the appointments—both yours and the baby’s.” His blue eyes were intense.

“Of course.” She brushed the edge of his palm with her lips. “I just hadn’t gotten around to it. I haven’t even checked my email this week.”

Gabriel started, for this remark reminded him of something. Something contained in an email.

He cleared his throat. “Julianne, I need to tell you that—”

A loud wail interrupted him.

Julia bent over the crying baby. She placed her hand on the baby carrier and began rocking it back and forth.

Clare opened her eyes.

“Let me do that.” Gabriel rocked the baby carrier as Julia dressed.

She checked her phone. “It’s time for me to feed her again. Maybe we can find a quiet corner somewhere.”

“Of course.” Gabriel lifted the baby carrier and escorted his wife into the hall.