“Well, a hearty amen and well done,” Dr. Henderson said, and then, speaking directly to Maggie and me, he said, “The baby is in perfect position. You’re dilated to five centimeters, Maggie. If I was a betting man, I’d say you’re about 45 min to an hour away from having your baby.”

Everybody laughed and I clapped my hands. I don’t know why I did that, but at this point I was in a trance and I really didn’t care what I was doing. I was just so happy and relieved that things were going so well so far.

“Okay, kids,” Dr. Henderson said. “I’m leaving you in the very capable hands of Mama Vermillion. If you need anything at all, just page me. Otherwise I’ll be by this evening to check in on you and the baby.”

And with that he shook my hand and gave me a wink. As he was leaving the bedroom and under his breath, he said, “Relax, son, it’s all downhill from here.”

“Okay, Mr. Jim, let’s get your pretty music playin’ and let’s pull these shades down a bit and get everthin’ nice and cozy. All we need to do now is just be real still and get ready for little Layla.”