Broken

Chapter twenty

Elliott

It's been a week since Jessie told me about the baby she lost before Reese. I haven't been letting her do anything while at home, Mollie either. They made a fuss the first couple of days until I gave them my reason why. After hearing about both babies Jessie lost, I don't want her to overwhelm herself with the twins. Being active at the hospital is one thing, it's her job. With everything going on with Ryan, I don't want Mollie stressing out during the first trimester of her pregnancy.

Jackson called this morning and said that Ryan was found and taken into custody and charged with an account for attempted assault on a pregnant woman and for plotting a murder against a police officer. We were all relieved to hear that we no longer have to worry about him, but I'm not letting my guard down for nothing.

As for Skye, we had an appointment with her doctor yesterday and she was eligible for the hearing implants. The doctor is supposed to call when they have what's needed for the procedure. She's excited to finally be able to hear and has been trying to speak more. If you've ever watched the show Switched at birth, she sounds like the deaf girl, Daphne when she speaks. She's been getting picked on for it, but she's not letting it bring her down and I'm proud of her for it.

I was finishing up putting breakfast on the table when everyone walked in, rubbing sleep from their eyes. I help the girls to their seats and they both give me a kiss. I bring them their orange juice and help the kids get what they want for breakfast. "Daddy, why don't you let mom and mommy do anything," Skye asks curious.

Explaining to her with only sign language so she understands how serious it is for it to be kept secret and tears fill her eyes looking at Jessie. Thankfully I was able to fill her in before Sarah walked in with our parents, I'm sure Jessie still wants it kept from her family. Skye goes over to hug Jessie who was now in tears and it left those who just walked in concerned about what's going on.

"Sweetheart," Valerie asks with concern.

"I'm fine mom," Kelly chokes quietly, holding onto Skye and meets eyes with me. "Just one of those mornings."

Valerie gives an understanding smile and everyone helps themselves to breakfast. I tap Skye's shoulder and motion for her to follow me. I kiss Jessie's forehead and lead Skye to the living room. I further explain about Jessie and that only Mollie and I know. I warn her not to tell the others unless Jessie was ready. She nods with understanding and we head to the kitchen for breakfast.

I make eye contact with Jessie and she relaxes in her seat. Mollie rubs her thigh in comfort and Jessie takes her hand. I was about to take a bite of my breakfast when the phone rang. I jump up to answer it before it rings again, praying it was Skye's doctor for the procedure. "Hello," I ask trying to push down the excitement.

"Elliott, it's Doctor Blake," she says softly. "When would you be available to do the procedure?"

"One moment," I say with a smile and she hums a response. I put the phone down and get Skye's attention. "When would you like to receive the implants?"

"Will you come with me," she asks Jessie with tears in her eyes. Her eyes flick to Mollie and says, "I want you to come too."

"Of course we'll be there sweetie," Jessie chokes with a smile.

"I want to do it as soon as possible, please," Skye please.

I pick up the phone and ask, "How soon can she do it?"

"I can have an operating room ready by lunchtime," she says and I look at Skye.

"We'll be there, thank you," I say with a smile and she hums a response before ending the call. "She's preparing for the procedure now. She'll be ready by lunchtime."