Page 54 of Rhett

Rhett brings my hand to his lips, kissing it softly. “Hey, it's going to be okay. Remember what the doctor said—even if she comes now, her chances are really good. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. This could just be a false alarm.”

I nod, trying to believe his words. When we arrive at the hospital, everything moves quickly. I'm taken to labor and delivery for monitoring while Rhett fills out paperwork.

After what feels like hours of tests and examinations, the doctor finally comes in with news.

“Well, Mrs. Ferguson, it looks like your little one is eager to meet you,” she says with a gentle smile. “You're in early labor. We're going to try to stop it with medication, but there's a good chance you'll be meeting your daughter very soon.”

Rhett and I exchange a look, a mix of excitement and fear. This is really happening. Ready or not, our baby girl is on her way.

29

Rhett

I rock my daughter as my wife sleeps peacefully. Elena Rose came into the world, four and a half pounds of little girl perfection. She was born three weeks ago and was utterly perfect. Since she was six weeks early, they did keep her for a week to make sure she was doing well.

Thankfully our girl is strong and surpassed everyone’s expectations. I gaze down at Elena's tiny face, still in awe of her perfect features. Her rosebud lips, button nose, and long eyelashes that flutter as she dreams. She has Sofia's blue eyes and a dusting of dark hair that I'm sure will curl like mine.

“You are so loved, little one,” I whisper, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. “Daddy's got you.”

Elena makes a soft cooing sound in her sleep, her tiny hand gripping my finger. My heart swells with an overwhelming love I never knew was possible before she came into our lives.

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of emotions—the fear and uncertainty when Sofia went into early labor, the breathtaking moment Elena was born, the anxiety of having her in the NICU. But now we're home and settling into our new life as a family of three.

Sofia stirs in the bed, blinking awake slowly. “Hey,” she says softly, smiling at the sight of Elena and me.

“Hey, yourself,” I reply, moving to sit on the edge of the bed. “How are you feeling?”

“Tired, but good,” Sofia replies, reaching out to stroke Elena's cheek. “How long was I asleep?”

“A couple hours,” I tell her. “This little miss and I have been having some quality daddy-daughter time.”

Sofia's eyes fill with happy tears as she watches us. “You're such a natural with her. I love seeing you two together.”

I lean down to kiss Sofia gently. “And I love seeing you with her. You're an amazing mom already.”

We sit in comfortable silence for a while, both of us just marveling at our daughter. It's hard to believe how much our lives have changed in less than a year. From that first chance meeting during the fire to now being married with a baby—it's been a whirlwind—but I wouldn't change a thing.

“What are you thinking about?” Sofia asks, noticing my contemplative expression.

I smile, shifting Elena so I can take Sofia's hand. “Just how lucky I am. How perfect our little family is.”

Sofia squeezes my hand. “I feel the same way. I love you both so much.”

“We love you too,” I murmur, leaning in for another kiss.

As if on cue, Elena starts to fuss, clearly ready for her next meal. I carefully pass her to Sofia, who gets her settled to nurse.

“I'll go warm up some of that lasagna your mom brought over,” I say, standing up. “You need to keep your strength up, Mama.”

Sofia nods gratefully. “Thanks, babe. That sounds perfect.”

I head to the kitchen, my heart full of love for my girls.

Today is my first day back at work since Elena’s birth. My sister is in town to meet Sofia and the baby so she’s spending the night with my girls tonight to help with her niece. I’m grateful for all the support we’ve received.

Walking into the station I see pink balloons and streamers with a big sign that says, Welcome Back, Dad. My brothers all greet me, and we share back-slapping hugs. I pull out my phone, sharing pictures of both of my girls.

“You lucky fuck, a beautiful wife, and a beautiful baby.” Atta gives me a playful shove. “Congratulations, man.” He slaps me on the back and then I greet the rest of my brothers. Fuck, these guys are the best men I know, and have done so much for us.

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