“It’s time,” I say in a panic as I see Sal and Marie waiting.

“We know, son. Just calm down. Everything is going to be okay.”

Sal puts his big hands on my shoulders, helping me into the boat as I clutch Tessa to my chest. I haven’t put her down since she said her water broke, and I’m a little terrified that if she stands on her own two feet, the baby will fall out.

I realize this isn’t possible, but I’m not exactly thinking rationally ...