Page 9 of A Hatchling for Valentine’s

Oh my God. There’s still so much more we need to do to get ready. “So, you’re saying it could be any minute?”

The doctor’s laughter was heartier. Vic wanted to punch him.

“It’s possible, but I doubt it. If the egg is only moving now for the first time, what it means is that your baby is building up it’s strength to push their way out of the shell. He or she will need some more time to do that, but you’re definitely getting closer. I’d estimate about a week or so from this point.”

Vic let out a relieved sigh. That still gave them more time and he was also relieved that the doctor seemed to have a clearer picture of the situation than he’d had when he’d last checked the egg.

“Okay, great. That’s good to know, thank you.” He shifted on his feet. “Sorry I got so snippy there. I’m not used to, you know, this parent thing.”

“Oh, don’t worry about it. At least you didn’t try to peck my eyes out!”

Vic snorted. “True. But we appreciate everything you’re doing for us.”

They said their goodbyes and Vic rushed back to the bedroom to pass on the news to Kellan.

Kellan’s eyes rounded as Vic shared what Dr. Arthur had told him. “Oh no. I still need so many baby things!”

His forehead creased with worry and Vic rubbed his chin through his beard, contemplating what they could do. “Well, if it’s all right with you, sweetheart, I could take over nesting duties again tomorrow and you could get some more shopping time in. How does that sound?”

Judging from Kellan’s slumped shoulders, he didn’t think Kellan was that thrilled with his suggestion.

“I think it’s very nice of you, Vic. But since I don’t drive, and the bus only goes to the one department store…”

“Right.” Vic nodded. Not only would Kellan have limited shopping options, but how would he carry a bunch of items by himself? “What if we got someone else to stay with the egg while you and I…?” Vic swallowed hard at the glare directed at him from Kellan. “Not for very long, just so we could…” He coughed into his fist. “Never mind.” Vic shoved his hands in his jean pockets. “There’re always online stores.”

Kellan appeared crestfallen. “I never thought too hard about this. I guess I should’ve realized all along that we’d have to do most of our shopping online because of the egg.” Kellan fidgeted on the bed. “I wish the Christmas Market was still happening. There were so many cute, handmade items there. Special things we could’ve gotten for the baby.”

Dora spoke up. “Look, I know I’m a poor substitute, but I have an idea. Why don’t I take Kellan shopping? We could drive to the big mall about an hour from here, then on the way back, we can visit my cousin’s shop a couple towns over. She and her wife have the coolest boutique with lots of crocheted, quilted and knitted items. All handmade.” She gazed up at the ceiling. “Of course, someone would have to give me the day off.”

“Yeah, someone would.” Vic chuckled as he turned to Kellan. “Well, what do you think?”

Kellan broke into a smile. “Can we, Vic? That would be amazing. I could even send you pics of things so you can help pick them out, just as if you were there!”

“Of course, you can. But I’m sure whatever you choose will be fine.” Vic smiled back.

“But I want you to be a part of everything for the baby too.”

Vic wasn’t sure what the big deal was, but he could tell how important it was to Kellan and that was what mattered. “Then I’ll be anxiously waiting to see the pics.”

Kellan’s smile grew bigger and he and Dora immediately fell into making plans for their big excursion the next day.

Skip elbowed him and Vic realized he’d almost forgotten his cook was there in the room.

“Now that that’s taken care of, any chance I can get some coffee?”

Vic snorted as he shook his head. “Yes, Skip. Help yourself.”

As Skip ambled his way to the kitchen, Vic tried to imagine what their lives would be like once the baby arrived. He spied the toy wolf they’d bought at the Christmas market, the one he’d set next to the egg after Kellan had first laid it. Would their child have his coat the way Kellan wanted? Or would the baby be all swan?

A thread of excitement coursed through him again. He couldn’t wait to find out.