Her experience was limited to a sterile hospital delivery room with a doctor, other nurses, and all the necessary emergency equipment. None of that existed in Gold River, and Caroline had never felt more inadequate. Thomas and Paul led the way to their cabin. Tanana lay in the center of a double bed, her face glistening with perspiration, her eyes wide with pain. The young woman held out her hand to Caroline. “Thank you for coming.” “When did the contractions start?” Caroline asked, sitting on the edge of the bed. Tanana lowered her gaze. “This afternoon.” “Why didn’t you tell me?” “I wasn’t sure they meant I was in labor.” Caroline understood. Tanana had mentioned twice that week that she’d been experiencing “twinges,” and Caroline had told her those were normal and she needn’t worry. The older woman in the bedroom rose to greet her. Tanana’s mother smiled her welcome and returned to her rocking chair, content to let Caroline assume the role of midwife.
