These Awkward Moments

Part 66 The Nerves

3 Days Later
Delilah's POV
I had finally reached the 36 week point in my pregnancy that meant we could all relax a bit if I went into labor now. It was still difficult for me to believe I had carried this pregnancy so far without major complications. Dr. Carson was happy that not only had I gone to full-term, but that my cervix still seemed stable at this point. He completed my ultrasound as he discussed what this meant with Daryl. "So if Delilah were to go into labor at any point now we could be fairly certain that the babies wouldn't need any extra support. They should both be fully developed and able to survive outside the womb any time she goes into labor."

The smile on Daryl's face seemed to light up the room. "So they both look healthy? And it looks like there won't be any complications?"

Dr. Carson smiled. "Both babies do look healthy. But I can't guarantee there won't be complications Daryl. Even in a healthy singleton pregnancy there is the potential for complications. With a multiple birth the potential for complications multiplies exponentially. We aren't completely out of the woods. One of the biggest issues we'll face is that even though Jaxon is head down, Miss Dacia isn't. We will keep our fingers crossed that once he delivers, she will have the space she needs to move into the right position. But if she doesn't, then we will have to attempt a breech delivery. That increases the risk to both the mother and the baby."

Daryl sobered as Dr. Carson was speaking and nodded. "So is there anythin' that can be done ta get her ta turn the right way now?"

Dr. Carson shook his head. "No Daryl. I'm afraid there's not. If this were a singleton pregnancy we could attempt a maneuver called an 'external version' where we turn the baby from the outside. But with Jaxon in the way there really isn't anything we can do. But the good news is Delilah can return to all of her usual activities until she goes into labor. So if you would like Delilah, you can return to work, or... uhhhh... any of your other... ummm ... activities as tolerated."

Daryl's smile brightened again, but I nodded rather absently. "You ok Doc? You don't seem very enthusiastic about what Dr. Carson just told us."

I tried to shake myself out of the introspection. "No. I'm ok darlin'. I guess I just have a lot on my mind. You know. It's kind of a lot ta process."

Daryl nodded and helped me down from the exam table. "How about we take a stroll to the park? Might be nice ta sit outside and have a chat?"

I nodded my head and smiled into his concerned eyes. "That sounds like a great idea darlin'. I'd love ta spend some time in the fresh air."

Daryl turned to shake hands with Dr. Carson and thank him for all his help. "And just so we're clear doctor... when you said Delilah could return ta her usual activities..."

Dr. Carson chuckled. "Yes Daryl, if Delilah feels up to participating in any of her normal activities she may. Just realize she may tire easily with simple activities. Delilah. You go get some fresh air and take it easy the rest of the day today. You know I'm around if anyone needs medical assistance, so if you don't feel up to returning to work you don't need to feel obligated."

I nodded my head as Daryl and I moved toward the door slowly. "I'll give it some thought. I'm pretty sure I'll want ta come around for at least a couple a hours a day just ta keep me occupied."

Daryl and I walked slowly to the little park by the pond. We sat on a park bench in the morning sun. He put an arm around my shoulders and drew me close to him. "You've been awfully quiet this morning Doc. What's goin' on with ya?"