“Whoa,” Victoria said, taking hold of Laura’s arm. “Has that happened before?”

“A few times.”

“What’s the urine output like? Normal or less than usual?”

“Probably a little less.”

“And is it darker in color?”

“Maybe a little.”

“Hmm,” Victoria said. “Would you mind if I helped you get changed?”

“I don’t mind.”

With Victoria’s help, Laura removed her dress and put on the gown. Once she was covered, she removed her panties as well. Victoria helped her onto the table and made her comfortable with a pillow and light blanket.

Victoria consulted Laura’s chart. “You’ve lost weight since the last time I saw you and your BP is low. Have you been eating?”

“When I can, which isn’t often. Everything makes me sick. Even the smells make me sick.”

“I hate to say it, but I suspect you’re a bit dehydrated. I’d like to consult with David and perhaps start an IV to get some fluids into you.”

“How long will that take?” Laura asked, alarmed by the prospect of being sidelined when she had so much to get done.

“A couple of hours.”

“I can’t be here that long!”

“It’s either that or I’m going to recommend you stay home when Owen leaves tomorrow.”

“That’s not an option.” The thought of not being able to go with Owen had her eyes filling with tears that flowed down her cheeks. “I have to be with him, Victoria. I can’t let him go through this alone.”

With a hand on Laura’s shoulder, Victoria said, “Let’s get you fixed up so you can go, but you need to take it easy.”

“I will. I promise. I’ll do whatever I have to do to be able to go with him.”

“Try to relax. I’m going to talk to David, and we’ll be back to see you in a few minutes.”

“I’ll try. Would you mind handing me my phone from my purse so I can let Sarah know I’m going to be here a while? She has Holden.”

“Of course. Here you go. I’ll be right back.”

She typed the text to Sarah: Apparently, I’m dehydrated, so they’re going to put me on an IV. I’ll be here a couple of hours. Are you okay with the baby? I can try to find Owen if you have somewhere to be.

So sorry to hear that! Holden and I are fine. Take your time.

Okay, thanks. Don’t tell Owen I’m here. He has enough on his mind. I’ll be fine once I get some fluid.

Please don’t ask me not to tell him, honey. He’d never forgive me.

Hopefully I’ll be back before he gets home.

Call if you need a ride home.

I will. Thanks.