Page 131 of Reclaimed

“Shit, baby. We’ll send her flowers or something. How are you holding up?”

“Me and my wedding dress hell have it all under control, Aiden,” Cortney snaps into the phone.

“You’re on speaker,” Isla adds.

“Would have been helpful to know, starshine. I’m on my way, okay? Be there in five.”

By the time I hang up, Jack’s already collected the pool cues.

“How you feeling?” he asks as we climb into my sedan. Thank god we took my car today because I have Isla’s hospital bag in the back.

“I’m excited.” A laugh of disbelief falls out. “Fuck, man. I’m about to be a dad.”

“Let’s get you to the hospital so you can be with her. If the others haven’t already made the calls, I’ll take care of it once we’re there.”

Five minutes later we roll up to the drop-off zone of Fairview Valley Hospital just in time to see Cortney push Isla inside in a wheelchair. For some reason, my sister is wearing a wedding gown.

I leave Jack with my car and jog after them. The duffel on my shoulder swings against my back with every second step.

“Fancy.” I stop Cortney with a hand on her shoulder and lean down to kiss Isla. “Hanging in there, starshine?”

“I’m perfect.” Her eyes scrunch with what I assume is a contraction. “Everything is going dandy here,lover,” she gasps around the endearment.

“Let’s get you upstairs. I’ve got it from here if you want to get changed, Cort.”

My sister releases the chair. “I left my clothes at the bridal shop. You’re not allowed to have that baby until I get back.” Cortney backs away, her index finger pointed at Isla.

“I have a feeling that won’t be an issue,” Isla retorts.

The automatic doors open to let Cortney out just as more members of my family file in. All the girls, Mom, and Jack.

“Jude and Lee are finishing up with a stray. Corjan’s on his way now after speaking with Scarlett about the change of plans.” Jack stops with his hands on his hips.

“Go on. We’ll find our way to the waiting room.” Mom engulfs me in a brief hug before giving one to Isla next. “Good luck. I love you both.”

With apprehensive smiles, we approach the front desk.

Five hours later, after one epidural and a bucket of ice chips, the team converts the bed, and Isla’s ready to push.

My heart pounds so hard I fear I might pass out as we get into position. Her gown is pulled up beneath her breasts and her legs are spread. One in my arms and the other held by a kind nurse. I brush the light brown hair off Isla’s forehead and lean down for a lingering kiss.

“You’re going to be the best mom, Isla. I’m so lucky to be here with you.”

“Promise you won’t leave me.” Her eyes flash with fear.

I grip her hand in mine. “They’d have to drag me out of here. I’m not going anywhere.”

“Then promise you won’t pass out.”

I chuckle. “That should be the least of your concerns.”

“Are you ready to push, Isla?” The masked doctor at her feet moves into position.

We share a tender glance before Isla nods her head.

“Ready.”

She pushes for an hour. Despite the exhaustion setting in, my girl doesn’t give up for a second. On and on she bears down with each contraction, and finally, at six-forty-three on March 7th, our son enters the world.

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