Several days flew by like one. Ray and Lily worked hard and visited little Violet to brighten the days she spent in the hospital until the next weekend arrived.
Today was a big family dinner. Ray, Amy, Lily, and Rosie had decided to get together. The senior ladies needed not only to talk but also to make sure both sides weren't opposed to the young people's initiative to have a child.
Right now, Ray and Amy were in the kitchen, preparing to receive their guests.
Over these few days, Lily had been at Ray's quite often. They spent time together, made plans for the future, and read books to each other. Lily caught herself thinking that she really loved his voice—when he read for her, even a mediocre book became interesting.
This had led to Amy and Lily becoming very close. If Amy had any doubts about their desire to have a child, they had now dissipated like smoke.
Opening the door, Ray barely suppressed the urge to press his lips to his beloved's. Escorting the guests to the kitchen, Amy hugged Lily and Rosie and said:
"I'm so glad we finally got to meet. Everything's ready—sit down at the table, we have things to talk about."
"I must admit, I've missed your son's cooking," Rosie said sincerely as they began to eat.
Smiling, Amy replied:
"I'd like to say that's my doing, but the truth is, I had to work a lot. He started cooking at six. The fact that by then he could already read and follow recipes saved me a lot of trouble."
"These past few days, I've been looking for a film school. I'd really like Lily to continue her education. I hope you'll support me. If we're really going to have a child, I wouldn't want her to be left alone someday—without an education and with a baby to care for," Ray said.
"I think that's a good idea. Honestly, I've always regretted that she had to go to work instead of studying. But I don't think we have enough money," Rosie said. Guilt was evident in her voice.
"We still have a few months. I'm going to take my exams early and find another job. If I don't make it in time, I have people I can borrow from."
"The money isn't a problem. We have some savings. I can take care of the baby and Violet so you can study. By the way, Rosie… I hope you don't mind if I start visiting the girl?" Amy asked.
"I'm very glad I have Ray, and I'm very proud of him. But the truth is, I wanted a daughter," Amy said.
"I've always wanted a little sister too. You're still young, so you could certainly fulfill your beloved son's dream," Ray chuckled. "I know what you're after, but your attempts to set me up with someone are useless."
"I'd like to visit your granddaughter, if you don't mind," Amy said.
"Of course, I don't mind. She gets bored—I'm usually with her at the hospital, but a couple of weeks ago she asked me to stay home a bit because Lily misses me too. I'm sure you'll get along."
The dinner passed in a warm, homely atmosphere. Rosie shared stories from her youth.
Realizing that Rosie and Amy wanted to talk privately, Ray turned to them:
"I hope you don't mind if Lily and I step out for a little walk?"
"Of course, go ahead."