Longwalker's Child. Debra Webb

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      “You may hold Sarah in your lap if you’d like,” the tech suggested, nodding toward the beige molded-plastic chair against the wall.

      Numbly, Lauren sat down and pulled Sarah onto her lap. She pressed a kiss to the top of her head and gave her a hug. Her chest ached with the fierce pounding of her heart.

      “Mommy, if I’m a good girl, do I get a present?” Sarah looked up at Lauren, her big gray eyes hopeful.

      Please let this be the right thing.

      “Sure, baby,” Lauren said softly.

      “And I want a Little Mermaid Band-Aid,” Sarah piped up.

      “I think I can handle that.” The tech smiled.

      Lauren fought the burn of tears behind her eyes. Even the medicinal smell of the place made her stomach churn. She had to do this. They needed the time before Gray made a move. But Lauren knew how this test would turn out.

      “Now,” the tech began, “this won’t hurt a bit.”