My Peace (Beautifully Broken 5)

A strong whirring noise, fast and loud, like a hummingbird’s wings.

“There it is,” the doctor says triumphantly. “It sounds good.”

He pushes and prods, and examines the sonogram screen.

“I don’t see any visible signs of distress,” he tells me. “Sometimes, vaginal bleeding can occur for unexplained reasons. Let’s put you on bed-rest this week, and you can follow up with your doctor on Monday.”

I nod, and I’m so relieved. Maddy hugs me.

“It’s ok,” she tells me. “It’s ok.”

I feel weak and relieved, and Maddy slips out so I can wipe the goop off and get dressed. I try to call Pax again.

No answer.

What the hell?

I feel shaky with my relief, and Maddy wants to drive me home.

I shake my head. “No. Then we’ll just have to come back for my car. It’s easier this way.”

Maddy stares at me. “You can send someone for your car. You have that luxury now.”

I forgot. “You’re right.”

I leave my car and climb into Maddy’s. She makes only one stop, and that is in the drive-through of a hamburger joint to get food and milkshakes.

“You have to keep your strength up,” she justifies, as she shoves fries in her mouth.

“What about you?”

“Sister solidarity.”

“Valid,” I nod, sipping on my chocolate shake. I keep one hand on my belly protectively, as though it will help.

“You’re ok,” Maddy reminds me at a stoplight. “All is well.”

I nod. “Ok.”

“Quit worrying. That only makes things worse.”

She calls Gabe through her Bluetooth.

“Hey, babe!” he answers on the speaker, and it’s loud in the background. “What’s up?”

“I’m just driving Mila home from the hospital,” she tells him. “I might be a little late coming home.”

“The hospital?” Gabe is surprised, and I hear him talking in the background with someone. Then Pax is on the phone.

“Maddy, why was Mila in the hospital? Is she all right?”

The sound of his familiar voice makes me relax into the seat, immediately comfortable.

My Pax.

“I’m fine, babe,” I tell him. “Just a little blood. I freaked out and went to the ER. I couldn’t get ahold of you…”

“My damned phone was dead,” he tells me quickly. “Gabe and Brand took me for a drink, and I planned to be home on time. I still will be. In fact, we’ll leave right now. I’ll meet you at home.”