“I need to talk to him about this at some point. It would help to know that he would understand if I can’t live here full time.” She blew out a deep breath. “I can’t decide anything until after the sentencing hearing. That’s hanging over me like a ton of bricks. Once that’s done, maybe I’ll feel more ready to make some plans.”

“You need closure before you can move forward. I totally get that.” Maddie squeezed Syd’s hand. “In the meantime, you have to help me decide on this nursery furniture. When I had Thomas, I had to make do with used stuff and hand-me-downs. Mac wants all new stuff for this little one.” She rested a hand on her round belly, and her eyes widened when the baby responded with a swift kick.

“Already talking back,” Sydney said, laughing. “Has to be a girl.”

Maddie chuckled. “Can you even begin to imagine Mac with a little girl? The poor thing won’t be allowed to date until she’s fifty.”

“He’ll be great with a girl.”

“He’s so excited about this baby. It’s all he talks about.”

“That’s so sweet.”

“It’s much different than when I was expecting Thomas and all anyone cared about was who the father was.”

“Enjoy every minute. You’ve got a wonderful son and husband, and now another on the way.”

“You know, as we were talking, I was thinking there’s no one here who has your decorating skills. You might find a very satisfying new career right here on the island.”

“You drive a hard bargain, Mrs. McCarthy.”

Maddie flashed a triumphant grin. “I’m totally biased because I’d so love to have you here year-round.”

The house phone rang, and Maddie made a comical attempt to get up from the floor.

“Stop,” Sydney said, laughing at the faces her friend was making. “I’ll get it.”

“It’s on the kitchen counter.”

Sydney ran for the kitchen and picked up the extension.

“Maddie?”

“No, it’s Sydney. Let me get her.”

“Syd, it’s Janey.”

Syd’s stomach plummeted at the grave tone of Janey’s voice. “Is everything okay? Is Buddy okay? I’ll be by shortly to pick him up.”

“Buddy’s fine, but there’s been an accident at the marina.”

All the air seemed to leave Sydney’s lungs in one big whoosh.

“My dad, Mac and Luke were all taken to the clinic.” Sydney could hear tears in Janey’s voice. “I only know one of them is hurt bad. Stephanie was so hysterical when she called my mother that we don’t know anything else. Can you bring Maddie and meet us there?”