June 12 2019
AJ had just finished her her nail appointment and was waiting outside the the nail salon and was at café, sipping on her favorite herbal tea and rubbing her very active belly. Luke stood close by, scanning the area like always—professional, calm, and silently on edge.
Luke- You sure you don't want to wait inside? It's hot out here.
AJ (smiling)- I'm fine, Luke. I just needed some air. Besides, this kid's been kicking like he's trying to find the exit.
Luke smirked but stayed alert, Then suddenly, AJ froze mid-sip.
AJ-Oh...
She clutched her belly and looked down. A warm gush soaked through her dress and pooled at her feet.
Luke- AJ?
AJ (panicked but trying to stay calm)-My water just broke.
Luke's eyes widened, and he immediately sprang into action.
Luke- Alright, okay. Stay calm. Let's get you to the hospital
AJ (breathing heavily)- Oh my God, it's happening.
He drove her to the hospital and guided her carefully toward the entrance, trying to keep her steady.
Luke-Get a wheelchair out front. Now please
He also pulled out his phone and called Dave, who picked up on the second ring.
Dave (on the phone)- What's up?
Luke- AJ's water just broke. We're at the hospital, I'm getting her inside now.
Dave (instantly alarmed)-I'm on my way—ten minutes out. Don't let her out of your sight.
Luke-Wouldn't dream of it.
By the time they reached the lobby, Camilla and another nurse came rushing out with a wheelchair. AJ, now gripping Luke's arm with surprising strength, was breathing through the contractions that had already started.
AJ (to Luke)- Don't leave me, okay?"
Luke (steady)- I'm not going anywhere. I'll wait until Dave gets here
They wheeled her in, and Luke stayed by her side the entire time, even when the nurse tried to shoo him away.
Nurse Jennifer - Family only—
Camilla -He is family today.
The nurse backed off, and Luke followed her into the prep room. AJ was hooked up to monitors, breathing through contractions, sweat lining her forehead.
AJ (between breaths)- Where's Dave?
Luke- On his way. You're doing great, AJ.
AJ- Don't lie to me—I look like a sweaty mess and I'm about to scream.
Luke (chuckling)-Still the scariest person I know.
Camilla - you can say that again
She smiled despite the pain. Then the door swung open and Dave came running in, his face full of panic until he saw her.
Dave- Baby!
He rushed to her side, grabbed her hand, and kissed her forehead.
Dave- I'm here. I'm here now.
AJ (relieved)- About damn time.
Luke stepped back, giving them their space, but before he could leave the room, AJ reached for his hand.
AJ-Thank you, Luke.
Luke (nodding)- Always.
The hospital room was dimly lit, calm but charged with tension. AJ's contractions were now coming faster, sharper. Dave held her hand tightly, whispering reassurances between her heavy breaths.
