chapter twenty-one

Lauren visited the Littrell house a lot more often after the great news. She and Brian had planned on changing the spare room next to the master bedroom into the baby's room.

Lauren and Brian already took out the deep, oiled furniture and the twin bed. The picture frames and platinum album records were taken and packed away. They covered the waxed floor with tarps and began peeling off the old wallpaper.

When Brian had to work, Lauren and Jessica worked on the walls and finally finished it. Later, they began to shop for the baby's room.

Over a few weeks, Lauren began to notice Jessica's little "speedbump" as Brian teased her.

Lauren could only smile when she watched Brian coo over the baby. He'd be on his knees, his hands on her stomach. He'd even sing to the baby. And he hardly let Jessica do a thing. It was something Jessica didn't really favor because she hated being waited on when she knew she was perfectly fine.

By the time Brian had to leave for touring, the baby's room had a fresh coat of blue paint. The new furniture had been ordered and was being delivered.

Just before Brian left, he gave Jessica a huge hug. He told her that he'd be home in time for the delivery. Jessica kissed him and replied, "Just worry about the tour. Lauren will take good care of me."

Brian smiled and nodded. He walked over to Lauren and enveloped her in a large bear hug. He said, "You take care of Jessica and yourself. I appreciate everything you've done for us, it means a lot. Expect daily check-ups from me." He kissed her cheek, grabbed his bags, said his last goodbye and left.

"Jessica you're certainly the luckiest woman in the world to have caught that fine of a man," Lauren commented.

"I pinch myself everyday, I swear," Jessica said, waving to Brian. When he was out of sight, Jessica turned to Lauren and grinned. "Break out the Ben & Jerry's."

"Woman, you're becoming my bad habit."

back to index
chapter twenty-two