Page 39 of Silver Linings

Her eyes shifted to the muscular figure bouncing back and forth rhythmically in the corner of the room.

“How long did I sleep?” she cringed as she pulled her sore body up into a sitting position.

“Not long enough. Only about two hours. If you’re still tired, you should go back to sleep. I’ve got things covered with Sprout.”

He turned and she could see the sweet bundle wrapped in his arms. “Have you been holding her this whole time?”

“Almost,” he laughed. “Cute little thing pooped all over me when I changed her diaper earlier. Had to set her down in her bassinet for a minute while I cleaned up. But those new baby sounds are so sweet, Lil. I’ve just been enjoying them while you sleep.”

Lily was sure her jaw was on the floor. Did grumpy Gunner just talk about changing diapers and newborn baby sounds?

“So, do you have a name picked out, or are we just going with Sprout?” Gunner asked.

“I think Sprout is still the perfect nickname for her, but I decided a while back on her name.” Her stomach fluttered with nerves. “Sage Juliette Brooks.”

Gunner stopped swaying. “You’re naming her after my mom?”

“I hope that’s okay. I told Jules my plans before she passed, and she seemed really excited to know the baby would carry on her name.” Gunner just stared at her, so she continued trying to explain. “And I hope it’s okay that I want to give her your last name. I know we never really talked about it, but since we’re married now, even if it’s a fake marriage, I don’t want her last name to be different from mine, and I really don’t want to name James on her birth certificate. I checked with the state requirements and a woman’s husband can go on the birth certificate as the father, even if he isn’t biologically related to the child.” Her heart thumped heavily. “I just want you to know that when we go our own way some day, I won’t ask you for anything except to keep loving Sage.”

She watched as his eyes bounced between her daughter, held so lovingly in his arms, and her.

“Lily, I’m beyond honored. Of course, I want both of my girls to have my last name.” He walked to Lily’s bed and kissed her forehead before doing the same thing to her daughter. “Welcome to the world, Sage. I can’t wait to walk through life as your dad.” And then he whispered words that shattered Lily’s heart and stitched it back together all in one moment. “I love you so much already.”

“Gunner,” Lily choked out.

“Shh, Lil. It’s all going to be perfectly fine.” His hand landed on her shoulder. “You really did amazing.”

A sharp knock came from her door and Gia’s voice softly filled the room.

“Congratulations, guys! Oh Lily, you look absolutely radiant. You’re a mom!” Tears sparkled in her best friend’s eyes as she bent over to give Lily a hug. “How are you feeling?”

“Tired. But just look at her, Gia. She’s so beautiful.”

Gia moved around the bed to get a better look at Sage, and Lily smiled as she watched the muscles in Gunner’s arms tighten his hold on her. Gia was going to have a fight on her hands to hold the baby.

“Wash your hands before you get too close, G.”

“Right.” She looked around the room for a minute before spotting the sink off to the side. “Once my hands are clean, you’re handing her over to me, Gunner.”

“You’re more than welcome to look at her, but I don’t want to wake her up by passing her around.”

Gia looked at Lily, eyebrows raised into her hairline.

“I think he’s really fallen in love with her,” Lily admitted.

“How could you not?” he said. “She’s perfect.”

Lily yawned, feeling like her heart could explode from happiness.

“Oh shit, Lily. Did I come when you were meant to be sleeping? Do you want me to go?” Gia asked, looking worried.

“No. I’m glad you’re here. I’m just going to close my eyes for a few minutes while you and Gunner fight about holding her, okay?”

Gia laughed.

“Will you stay here with us while I sleep? I mean, will you stay even after Gia’s done visiting?” she asked Gunner as she tried to lie back against her pillows. “I don’t want her to go to the nursery. I know it’s silly to think anything will happen, but I’m scared.”

“I’m not going anywhere, Lil. I’ve got you, and I’ve got her. So just rest.” Gunner pressed a kiss to her forehead, and Lily heard Gia sniffle as she closed her eyes. “She’s already a daddy’s girl, I can tell. Got me wrapped right around her perfect little fingers. I’ll never let anything happen to our daughter, Lily. Never.”

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