After a long hour of pacing the waiting room, the doctor called for Jamie. In low tones, Dr. Wyatt explained the minimal injuries Clarissa had sustained from her tumble off Blitz. “Her left ankle was twisted and sprained, so she’ll need to keep off it for a few days and ice it at least twice a day. I would give her crutches, but she also fractured her left wrist, minimally. I already had her fitted with a cast, which is why it took so long for me to come get you. I am sorry about that.” Jamie closed his eyes with relief that the injuries were not more severe and sent up a fervent prayer of thanks.

Dr. Wyatt motioned for Jamie to follow him and led him to Clarissa’s room. Before he opened the door, he paused. “Oh, and Jamie, one more thing.” Forcing back his impatience to see his wife, Jamie looked at the doctor expectantly. Smiling, Dr. Wyatt said, “When your wife fell off the horse, I imagine she twisted to catch herself, which would explain the injuries and bruising on her left side. In doing so, she protected the baby growing in her womb.”

Jamie froze. A look of confusion and then wonder crossed his face. Chuckling, Dr. Wyatt offered him congratulations and opened the door to Clarissa’s room. She called his name when she caught sight of him and he hurried to her side. He sat on the edge of the bed and gingerly hugged her. “I was so worried,” he whispered. She laughed and reassured him that she was fine. “I’ll be able to walk on my ankle by the end of the week, and my wrist is in a cast, so I won’t be tempted to use it. I’m fine, Jamie. I promise.” She took his hand and rested it on her swollen abdomen. “We’re both fine.”