Grace makes a tiny sound, and Aria laughs softly through her tears.
Skyler wipes under her eyes. “She likes you.”
“She’s perfect,” Aria says.
Zach’s chest puffs up. “She is.”
I move to stand behind Aria’s chair and rest one hand lightly on her shoulder. I need to touch her. I need something to hold on to while I watch her hold the life I’m scared I can’t give her.
Aria leans back into my hand just a little. “She’s so tiny.”
“She didn’t feel tiny coming out,” Skyler mutters.
Zach immediately turns to her. “Do you need anything? Water? Ice chips? Another blanket? Pain meds?”
“I need you to sit down before you fall over,” Skyler says.
He shrugs her off. “I’m fine.”
For a few minutes, the room is quiet. Skyler talks about the delivery. Zach interrupts every few seconds to add things. Ariakeeps Grace in her arms, looking down at her like the rest of the world has disappeared.
And I watch my wife.
I watch the way her finger brushes over Grace’s tiny fist. The way she’s looking at her with awe on her face. This is probably what I’ve been most afraid of. It wasn’t the diagnosis or having to run multiple tests. It’s watching Aria with a baby in her arms and knowing that I have a secret that can change everything between us.
Aria glances up at me. “You okay?”
I force myself to nod. “Yeah.”
She studies me for a second, and I wonder if she believes me.
Then Grace makes another sound, and Aria looks back down at her.
Skyler yawns, and Zach stands immediately. “All right. Time’s up. Momma needs rest.”
Skyler gives him a tired look. “I’m fine.”
“You just had a baby.”
“I know. I was there.”
Aria smiles and carefully stands. “He’s right. We should let you rest.”
Zach looks relieved that someone agrees with him.
Aria leans over and kisses Skyler’s cheek. “I’m so happy for you.”
Skyler’s eyes fill again. “Thank you.”
Then Aria looks down at Grace one more time. “Welcome to the family, sweet girl.”
My chest tightens.
Zach takes Grace from Aria very carefully and then settles her back into Skyler’s arms.
I hug Skyler gently. “You did good, kid.”
She sniffles. “Don’t make me cry.”
