Book 14: Exits and Entrances

Maeve

Misty lingers nearby as Ginny, my midwife, rises from between my legs, her face cast in the shadow of the sunset sending golden and crimson streaks of light through the curtains. The snow is melting. Ice thaws on the windows. I relax my legs with a grimace, Misty coming to my side to help me back into a seated position.

“So?” Misty asks as Ginny disposes of her gloves. “Is this happening?”

“Slowly, but yes. She’s quickening now. Her contractions will grow stronger from her, but they’re still far enough apart that I believe we have some time. A day or so.”

“A day?” I whine.

Ginny and Misty give me mirrored looks of sympathy, but it’s obvious there’s nothing more that can be done.

“Well, that means you have a full day to finally decide what her name is going to be,” Misty quips, shrugging a shoulder. “I’m leaning toward Misty, but I’m sure your Mom and Sarah would beg to differ.”

I playfully narrow my eyes. “If she ever