Any baby coming into the world early runs
the risk of respiratory distress syndrome."
Peter shook his head impatiently to indicate that he didn't
understand, and Dr. Chen explained.
"A vital substance that coats the lining of the baby's lungs and
its small interior cavities, called alveoli, is not fully
advanced at this stage of development. The air sacs in the lungs
tend to stay collapsed. We'll have the baby on a respirator, of
course, but there may be other complications."
Peter closed his eyes, images of tiny pink, deflated balloons
streaking across his mind. So fragile. So vulnerable and
helpless.
The doctor placed a hand on Peter's shoulder. "This isn't going
to be easy," he said. "We'll do our best."
And then the doctor was gone, leaving Peter to stare once more at
the clock and wait, all by himself.
Chapter 15
"Hello, Matthew," Greta said coolly, settling her coffee cup onto
its saucer.
"Hi," Matthew said brightly. He dropped his garment bag and
briefcase in the doorway, strolled past her without so much as a
glance, and went to the kitchen, where he poured himself a glass
of orange juice, drank it in one gulp, and set the glass on the
countertop.
"Has Marie been sick or something?" he said, striking up
conversation as he strolled into the breakfast area, peeling the
paper wrapper off a muffin.
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