Then the Johnson's, when Mr. Johnson sliced his hand badly while mending a fence. By midsummer, Delilah had assisted with two difficult births, set a broken arm, and treated countless minor ailments, earning both gratitude and respect from the community. Yates supported her efforts without reservation, building her a small shelf for her growing collection of medical supplies and often caring for Samuel when she was called away. His own work prospered as well the herd increasing steadily, the first crops showing promise and plans for the future taking solid shape as their hard work began to show tangible results.
Samuel grew from a newborn to an active infant, his personality emerging more clearly with each passing day. He had Delilah's smile and curious nature. But something in the set of his jaw and the steadiness of his gaze reminded her increasingly of Yates's evidence that family was created by love and presence, not merely by blood. He tried to crawl today, Delilah told Yates one evening as they sat on the porch after putting the baby to sleep. "Didn't get far, but he's determined.
He'll be into everything before we know it," Yates predicted with a proud smile. "We'll need to make some changes around here to keep him safe." "Already thinking ahead," Delilah teased, leaning against his shoulder. "Have to," he replied, wrapping an arm around her. Especially with the new little one coming. Delilah stilled, turning to look at him in surprise.
How did you know I was going to tell you tonight? Yates's smile was gentle, his eyes warm with love. You've been tired in the morning, same as with Samuel, and you've been touching your stomach the way you did before. His hand covered hers where it rested on her still flat abdomen. How long have you known?
Just a few days for certain, Delilah admitted. I think it happened during that storm in April when we got caught in the rain coming back from the Petersons. The memory brought a blush to her cheeks. They'd arrived home soaked to the skin, and one thing had led to another as they warmed each other by the fire while Samuel slept soundly in his room. "Are you happy about it?" Yates asked, studying her face.
Very," she assured him, her eyes shining. "Though it will mean some adjustments to our plans, the trip to California may need to wait. We have time," Yates said simply. "A lifetime to do all the things we want to do." His hand gently caressed her stomach. "When will this little one join us?" "January, I think," Delilah replied.
A winter baby like Samuel was. Yates's face lit with joy as he leaned in to kiss her deeply. When they finally parted, both slightly breathless, he pressed his forehead to hers. "Thank you," he whispered. "For what?" she asked, puzzled.