Page 95 of Misery In Me

I nod, eager to hear her thoughts. “Absolutely. We make a great team, and I know we can handle anything that comes our way. What’s your plan?”

She takes a deep breath, her eyes meeting mine with determination. “Well, first, I think we need to establish a routine. A solid routine will help us stay organized and ensure that both kids get the care and attention they need. I want to make sure Zoe doesn’t feel left out or neglected, so we’ll need to involve her in caring for the baby as much as possible.”

I smile, impressed with her foresight. “That’s a great idea. Involving Zoe will not only help her feel important but also teach her about responsibility and sibling love. What else?”

“Second, I think we should hire a part-time nanny or babysitter to help, at least in the beginning. Having an extra set of hands will be a lifesaver, especially when we’re both adjusting to life with two kids.”

I nod in agreement but tease. “I dunno, pretty girl. You know what happened the last time a nanny came to work here?”

Ale narrows her eyes. “What are you trying to say?”

Oh shit, she looks like she wants to kill me.

Me and my big fucking mouth.

“I’m kidding, baby. There will nevereverbe anyone else.” I need to learn to shut the fuck up. My brain is going to get me into trouble with my wife. “Anything else?” I swallow.

Ale thinks for a moment before continuing. “I also want to make sure we take care of ourselves, both physically and mentally. Having two kids under two will be demanding, and weneed to be at our best to provide for them. That means eating well, getting enough sleep, and making time for self-care and each other.”

I lean over and kiss her softly on the lips. “You’re amazing, you know that? I’m so lucky to have you as my partner on this crazy journey called parenthood.”

She blushes slightly, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Thank you, Gage. I feel the same way. We’re a team, and together, we can face anything.”

Later that evening, as we lie in bed, Ale’s head resting on my chest, I think back on this incredible journey we’ve been on and the amazing woman she is. “You know, pretty girl, I’ve been thinking about how lucky I am to have you in my life. You’re not only an incredible mother but also the most supportive and loving partner I could’ve ever asked for.”

She looks up at me, her eyes shining with unshed tears. “Thank you, baby. That means the world to me. I feel the same way about you. You’re an amazing father and an equally amazing husband. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

I kiss the top of her head, holding her close. “You’ll never have to find out,Hermosa. You couldn’t get rid of me now if you tried.”

The next fewdays are just as busy as we continue to prepare for the baby’s arrival. The bassinet is ready in our room, and we’ve even set up a comfortable nursing chair for Ale and me to use during those late-night feedings.

One afternoon, as we’re putting the final touches on the nursery, Ale turns to me, a serious expression on her face. “Gage,there’s something else I’ve been wanting to talk to you about. It’s important.”

I put down the box I’m holding and give her my full attention. “Of course, pretty girl. What’s on your mind?”

She takes a deep breath, her hands resting protectively on her belly. “I’ve been thinking about our future, about what it will be like raising two kids under two. And I want to make sure we’re on the same page about something.”

I nod, encouraging her to continue. “Go on.”

“Well, I want to make sure that we prioritize our relationship, even as our family grows. I know it will be challenging to find time for just the two of us, but I think it’s crucial that we do. Our relationship is the foundation of our family, and I want to make sure it stays strong and healthy.”

I reach out, taking her hands in mine. “You’re absolutely right, Ale. Our relationship is the most important thing, and I promise you, I will do everything in my power to make sure we find that time for each other. Whether it’s a date night once a week or just a few quiet moments together each day, we will make it happen.”

She smiles, her eyes shining with relief and happiness. “That means a lot to me, baby. I just want to make sure that we don’t lose sight of what’s truly important amidst the chaos of parenthood.”

I pull her into my arms, holding her close. “We won’t,mi amor.I promise. Our family is our priority, and that includes nurturing and strengthening our relationship every step of the way.”

FORTY

ALEJANDRA

It’s two o’clock in the morning when the contractions progressively get worse, sharp pains that takes my breath away. I sit up in bed and double over, my hands clutching my swollen belly as I try to catch my breath. Gage wakes and, in an instant, his strong arms are supporting me as I ride out the wave of pain.

“Ale, what’s wrong?” He reaches over to turn the lamp on the bedside table on. “Is it the baby?”

I nod, gasping for air as the contraction subsides. “I don’t think my water’s broken, but the contractions are coming fast and strong. I think it’s time, Gage.”

Gage’s eyes widen, but he quickly regains his composure, his military training kicking in. “Okay, let’s get you to the hospital. Can you walk, or do you need me to carry you?”

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