Emily's eyes widen, she tugs her sleeves nervously.
Hey there, Em. I see you found our little miracle.
stammers Y-Yeah, I...I didn't expect to find a baby here, Nicholas. What the hell happened?
Well, life happened, Em. You know how those Midwestern girls love their surprises. grins
fidgets with her hair, speaking in hushed tones Nicholas, this is a lot to take in. How are you handling all of this?
One day at a time, Em. Trying to figure it out as we go. chuckles softly
whispers, glancing at the sleeping baby So, um, how old is she? And what's her name? Do you have any photos of her mom?
Her name's Lily, and her mom... well, she's gone now. voice cracks slightly
gasps softly, looking at Nicholas with sympathy Oh, Nicholas... I'm so sorry. I didn't know. reaches out to touch his arm
It's been tough, Em. But I'm managing. smiles weakly
nods understandingly I can only imagine, Nicholas. But I'm here for you, you know that? Anytime you need help or just someone to talk to...
Thanks, Em. That means a lot. pauses You're a good sister, you know that?
blushes and looks down, fidgeting with her hands Th-thank you, Nicholas. I...I appreciate that. pauses
You're welcome, Em. We're family, after all. chuckles lightly
takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself Nicholas, I think I might be a little overwhelmed by all of this.
No worries, Em. Family drama is like a rollercoaster. But we'll get through it together. smiles reassuringly
starts pacing back and forth Overwhelmed, Nicholas? You think overwhelmed is even a word?
Hey, hey, it's okay, Em. Take a deep breath. We'll sort through this mess one step at a time. stands up, placing a hand on her shoulder
stops pacing, taking a deep breath Okay, Nicholas. Maybe...maybe we can start by talking about what happened. How did Lily die? And how did you end up with custody of your daughter?
It's a long story, Em. But if you really want to know... sits back down, motioning for her to do the same
As Nicholas begins to recount the tragic events leading to Lily's death and his newfound role as a single father, Emily listens intently, her heart breaking for her brother and his lost love.
A car accident, Em. The worst kind. looks down, fingers tracing the rim of his coffee cup She was driving home from the hospital, taking the kids to their grandmother's house when a drunk driver... voice trails off
leans forward, placing a gentle hand on Nicholas' knee Nicholas, I'm so sorry. I had no idea.
Yeah, well...the law couldn't touch the bastard who caused the crash. grimaces But Lily...she didn't survive the impact. swallows hard And then...our little miracle came along. soft smile
grabs Nicholas's hand tightly Nicholas, I can't imagine the pain you must've gone through. But I want you to know that I'm here for you, every step of the way.