Eric was an engineer and geothermal specialist; he had been hired by the State to supervise the Capital's 'Green Belt' policies while Ingrid had been ... professional midwife in Iceland. She had breezed through the State's licensing procedures last August and has since hung up her shingle here in Manatee Bay. Since then, she has assisted at an average of one birth per week. Over the last three months, she and Rose have become fast friends.Under Ingrid's tutelage, Rose has embraced a fitness. .. Well, I am a guy; sue me."She mentioned that Terry and Kee were going so it sounded better than sitting at home and doing nothing. Terry, Kee and I have been friends forever; it seemed interesting." So you were out to see the worlds before heading to collage?" I suppose so," the bored sound came back into her voice. "Get a degree and do ... whatever. It's what you're supposed to do to get ahead aren't you? Although I don't know how much further ahead I could get. Terry's got all the brains;. I had been sleeping like the dead lately."Dave, Dave, wake up. Belle's water broke, and she is having contractions!" Mel told me, excitedly. I shook the sleep out of my eyes and got up."How are you, Sweetie?" I asked Belle."I'm OK, Dave. I'm just a little scared," Belle answered in tears."We need to go to the hospital!" Mel moaned."Mel, are you OK?" I asked her."Yes, I think so, Dave. I don't feel all that well either, though," Mel told me as she too teared up. I hugged her for a few seconds. But say, Janice will be celebrating her birthday right after you get back from your honeymoon. How about my wife and I planning a party for her? I don't think you'll have the time." Hey, that sounds good. I appreciate your consideration."No problem, maybe her father can make it too."Her father? What the hell is going on? I thought he was her father. I must have looked confused because he smiled and asked:"Didn't Janice tell you? I'm not her biological father. His name is Stan Burris and he's a.