Chapter 12
The Serenity women sat around a table in one of the meeting rooms at the hospital.
“We have shower decorations. We’ll hold afternoon tea at Kassie’s for Claire on Saturday, and on Sunday, we’ll hold Gabby’s at Ty’s,” Maddie shared with them. “He generously offered to close the restaurant from noon to four.”
“We can hold Gabby’s at the house, too,” Kassie offered.
Shaking her head, Carol said, “No. Gabby has craved Ty’s chicken salad for the last four months. She won’t think anything of Claire asking her for lunch there, and we can surprise her.”
“What about Claire?” Catherine asked.
“Kassie will call with an urgent work matter,” Maddie informed the group.
“Lizzy and Bryanna will bring the cakes to both events. Tess will make the tea sandwiches while Bryanna brings the tea cakes and goodies for Claire. Lizzy and Annabelle will assist her. Samantha, Carol, and Cherise will handle the decorations at Ty’s.
Maddie, Kassie, and Catherine will handle them at her house,” Edie added.
“I’ll bring homemade quilts for each baby and will watch the kiddos with Avie, Stormy, and some of the teens from the hospital.
We’re thinking of taking them swimming. Allie has offered to supervise them in the daycare during the shower with our helpers. ”
“What about Addyson?” Kassie asked.
“She’s covering your shifts, and Ahmed, with one of the charge nurses, will relieve her on both days to attend the showers,” Maddie said, pouring another cup of tea. “The grans will deliver the decorations the night before. I hate Victoria will be missing all of this. Kassie, did you reach her?”
“Yeah,” she said sadly. “Tori’s biological mom went missing. They found her car, and Victoria called Matthew and the Texas team in to find them. It might be a rival mafia family. I didn’t want to bring it up. It seems we have a lot on our plate these days.”
Catherine took her hand. “You didn’t say anything because of me. I’m grieving, but it doesn’t mean I don’t have any time to comfort you. Please update me on what's happened?”
“She went missing a couple of weeks ago. Victoria’s concerned. Her men can’t get close without getting recognized,” Kassie admitted. “I can’t call our team to help. I contacted Matthew, and he assured me they’d handle it. He won’t let his family down.”
Maddie grinned. “I’m glad he’s found his place with the Texas team. I’m grateful he watched over you, but he seems happy in Texas.”
“Yes. He and Rachel seem very much in love. She’s changed. I wish them all the best,” Kassie said, playing with her pen.
“I bet it hurt to say it,” Catherine elbowed her. “I never thought I’d ever hear Kassie and Rachel getting along.”
The women chuckled.
“I didn’t say we’re best friends,” Kassie grumbled.
“She makes him happy. Matthew asked me to try and get along with her. I’m doing my best. It doesn’t help she peers at me suspiciously every time I call.
I even have the kids with me to appear less serious, and she barely manages to hide her contempt for me. ”
Maddie laughed and touched her arm. “It wasn’t so long ago, you barely wanted to say her name. She has a right to feel threatened. Rachel doesn’t understand your relationship with Matthew.”
“As long as she stays in Texas, we’re good,” Kassie murmured in Catherine’s direction.
“Catherine, we know this must be difficult for you, especially now,” Maddie said tactfully. “If at any time you feel overwhelmed, Kassie’s bedroom and Ty’s office will be open to you if you need some time alone.”
“I appreciate it,” Catherine said softly.
On the verge of tears, she peered at the women.
“There are times to feel sad about my loss and a time to celebrate life. Claire’s having her first baby, and she’s over the moon.
I don’t want anything to take this joy away from her.
I know we’re not feeling excited about a lot of things, but they deserve this.
Gabby’s last shower got mired by the strife between her and Knight.
He’s missed most of this pregnancy. We can’t let her feel alone.
Let’s do what we do best. You all offered me comfort at my weakest moment. It’s my turn to pay it forward.”
Carol dabbed at her eyes and blew her nose as she gazed at her daughter with pride.
“We all have our assignments,” Kassie said softly. “Let’s make this day one they’ll never forget.”