Chapter 14: Break the Ice, and the News

"So how are we going to tell them?"

Early the next morning, the newly engaged couple were discussing how to properly present the news to their children.

Josefin was understandably concerned and at a loss. Her fiance, on the other hand, seemed none too worried.

"Don't worry. I got it under control. I'll make sure both of us have the kids know by tonight."

"Are you sure it'll go out all right, Lief?"

At that point, Lief made a face as if to say, "You think it won't?" He once again assured her that her fears were unfounded.

Then, both of them heard Kristin crying from upstairs, a sign she had woken up. Lief took the opportunity to take care of her before she woke everyone else up.

Of course, Lief had other reasons for going up to check on his baby.

"Guess what, Kristin!" Lief whispered joyfully to her. "You're going to have a new mommy soon!"

Kristin seemed to understand what her father whispered to her, for she began to giggle and coo. She was too young to really know what it meant, but it was good news nonetheless.

It seemed as though her crying did wake someone up, however. As soon as Lief left her room, he saw Edvin standing there, presumably on his way to check on Kristin.

Lief saw him, and decided it wouldn't hurt to tell him the news as well.

"Morning! I took care of Kristin for you." Edvin smiled, thankful he didn't have to worry about her.

"When'd you and Mom get back?"

"Oh, earlier. Oh! Hey Edvin, I wanna tell you something."

Lief suddenly found himself at a loss as to how to break the news to Josefin's boy. He kept his voice down in case his own children were still sleeping.

"Okay, so...What if I told you that you and Arvid are...likely going to have a new dad soon?"

Lief waited for Edvin's reaction. He was fearful that the boy would freak out and state that Josefin wasn't ready for re-marriage.

But it appeared Lief's fears were unfounded.

"Seriously?! That's awesome, Lief!"

"That's right. But try not to tell Arvid and the others. Your mother and I are hoping to keep it a secret until later. Can you keep quiet until then?"

"I sure can." Both of them knew Edvin wasn't going to spill the beans, but precautions were to be made.

Edvin still couldn't contain his excitement for a while.

"What are you so happy about?" Karl asked when the kids were all watching TV after they all woke up later that morning.

Edvin was trying to suppress a smile as he held Kristin.

"Oh, nothing." None of them seemed to believe him, but they didn't push the subject either. For now, the secret was safe until Lief and Josefin were ready.

(End of Chapter 14.)