I look from David to the good doctor and back. What’s this about?
“Ah, yes.” Dr. Shear turns to me. “Normally, I wouldn’t reveal anything for reasons of confidentiality, but your fiancé was very persuasive. He said you deserve to know so you both can figure out medical options.” He shoots David a look that’s halfway between admiration and annoyance, then turns back to me. “And I always felt sad about what happened to your mother. Anyway, I’m disappointed that certain people around you have…misrepresented your mother’s struggle. Your mother suffered from severe depression, and unfortunately, she suspended treatment. Against my advice.” He sighs. “She said she wanted to appear normal and fit in without any ‘stigma.’ She thought being treated brought embarrassment.”
He doesn’t elaborate, but it isn’t necessary. I know it was my father who found the treatment embarrassing. Deep sorrow pulses through me for my mom, who ultimately didn’t get the help she needed, and resentful anger in equal part toward my dad for being a selfish jerk. I should’ve said more when he showed up at David’s parents’ home. But at least I can console myself with the knowledge that he lost the special election to Dick Chapman.
Dr. Shear continues, “I told her there’s no shame in seeking either therapy or pharmacological treatment. No different, really, than people getting treated for conditions like chest pain or diabetes, but I couldn’t change her mind.”
I let out a breath. “So she wasn’t, like…‘crazy’?” I ask, using the word Dad often used to describe Mom. “And I’m not going to be like that, either?”
Dr. Shear shakes his head. “Not at all. Just because your mother had depression doesn’t mean you will, too. Besides, she didn’t continue her treatment, so your circumstances aren’t anything like hers, unless I’m misreading the situation.” His gaze lands briefly on David again. “Depression is a complex condition, and our understanding of it is constantly evolving. If you’ll wait just a moment, I have something I want to give you.” He slips into his condo, then comes right back out with a folder. “Here. Take this with you. It has some information about depression, what to look for, and some treatment options that I’m aware of, although I suggest you talk to your local doctor about it. Like I said, our understanding is advancing all the time, and there may well be newer options that would be helpful should you require them. Most importantly, don’t let what happened to your mother get in the way of living your life, Erin. She wouldn’t have wanted that for you.”
A huge, boulder-like weight that’s been pressing on my chest vanishes. Joy springs, and I feel like I could jump high enough to touch the sky. I hug the doctor, then David. Hard.
“Thank you,” I whisper against his neck.
“You’re welcome.” He kisses my temple. “Do you feel better?”
I nod. “How did you know?”
“Because it’s been on your mind for a long time. And you were really courageous in deciding to forge your own future, but I wanted to find a way to make it easier for you. You deserve it, Erin. And no matter what, I’m always going to be on your side.”
I look up at his face, his shining eyes, his gorgeous smile. “Everything you do makes me love you more.”
“Good. Because everything you do makes me love you more, too.”
Chapter Fifty
David
–two years later
Hair tangled and sweat still damp on her skin, Erin lies limply on the bed. But she couldn’t look more beautiful. She’s stunning, having delivered our baby into the world. She said she wanted to do it naturally, and she did. I’m so proud of her.
When the smiling nurse brings the baby over, Erin holds the precious bundle tightly and kisses the top of the head as the baby lets out a small wail.
My parents and grandmother flew out the moment I called and let them know Erin had gone into labor, even though it was two weeks early. Now they stand around the bed with me, soaking in the moment. Mom is barely able to keep still, and I’m afraid she’s going to pop with excitement. Grandma is much calmer, but of course she’s already had practice when Jan delivered a baby boy.
I wait for Erin to have a chance to recover, then announce the name. We made a list, but couldn’t choose. I told Erin she could pick. I know my wife would select the best one of the bunch.
“Welcome to the world, Alexandra Sun Darling,” she says, gazing into our daughter’s eyes.
“Oh my God!” Mom bursts into tears. “You named her after me!”
Grandma pats Mom on the back with a smile. Dad lets out a laugh. “That’s perfect.”
“Named after two most amazing women in my life.” Erin smiles.
“Erin, you are the best daughter-in-law a woman could ask for.” Mom sobs, then hugs Erin and kisses baby Alexandra.
I reach over and squeeze Erin’s hand as my grandmother takes a picture of us. “And I have everything a man could ask for right in this room.”
——