After exiting the train in Greenpoint, I pulled my phone out and shot a text back to my boss who had sent me a question just when I’d lost service underground. I hit send and looked up as I reached my block, my eyes landing on a family of three walking in my direction. A very pregnant woman waddled uncomfortably behind a young girl in light blue denim overalls. She looked to be about three years old and was holding her dad’s hand singing Pop Goes the Weasel. I smiled at the girl’s energy as she skipped down the street, her golden blonde ringlets bouncing with each step. When they got closer, the girl slowed to a walk and turned to place her palm on her mom’s belly.

‘Mommy, did I come from inside there, too?’

My breath caught in my throat, my steps faltering. Mom and Dad shared a quick, amused glance before looking down lovingly at their daughter.

The dad crouched down and said, ‘Yes, you did. Mommy kept you safe in her belly for nine months before we got to meet you. And now she’s doing the same for your brother, Jordan.’

‘Can I go in there and say hi to him? Pleeeeease, Daddy.’

Both parents laughed and I found myself smiling along with them. The dad straightened and the mom stroked her daughter’s hair as they continued down the block. ‘I’m sorry sweetie, but you have to be patient. He’ll be coming any day now,’ she said with a warm smile in my direction as they passed by me.

The child looked at me, smiled and waved her chubby little hand. I waved back and as they walked away, the child said, ‘Mommy, why is that lady crying?’