Page 63 (2/2)

I tried not to grin “Is that so?”

“Yeah, because I know you want to watchat the mouth”

Brat But like I could really argue with her logic I did want to watch her

I reht Emma was born A wild mix of fear and elation had seared the memory into my mind Just like my parents had done with me, they had opted to use amoment arrived, Mom wouldn’t have to leave home

But even that plan had failed

The sun had already set by the time her contractions started and my dad had refused to open the door to the midwife, too afraid a monster would follow her in

So, Dad had delivered Emma while my mom nearly screa and shaking because I’d been so afraid

When everything had finally quieted, I’d snuck into their bedroom to make sure everyone had survived Dad bustled about while Moe, and, to be honest, I’d gasped in horror Baby Emma had not been attractive She’d been red and wrinkly, with the most hideous dark hair on her ears (I’m happy to say the hair has since been shed) Mom had been all smiles as she waved me over to hold my “new best friend”

I’d settled beside her, pillows fluffing behind ly bundle in my arms Eyes so beautiful only God Himself could have created the and tiny fists waving

“What should we name her?” Mom had asked

When short, chubby fingers had wrapped around one of mine, skin soft and warm, I’d decided that hair on the ears wasn’t such a terrible thing, after all “Lily,” I’d replied “We should name her Lily” I had a book all about flowers, and the lilies were my favorites

My mom’s soft chuckle had washed over me “I like that How about Emmaline Lily Bell, since Nana’s real name is Emmaline and it’d be nice to honor my mother the e honored your dad’s when you were born We can call our little miracle Emma for short, and the three of us will share a wonderful secret You’re ether the two of you are my perfect bouquet”

I hadn’t needed time to think about that “Okay Deal!”

Eled, and I’d taken that as approval

“Alice Rose,” Eain, when I’ve never needed you more”

“All right, fine,” I said on a sigh I just couldn’t deny her Never had, never would “I’ her talk to him”

The first sparkle of hope ignited “Really?”