Page 46 of Babies at Coconuts

Chapter 33

Waving frantically, Fernando said, “Come. Come see our beautiful baby.”

Everyone scrambled for the door, and again, nearly got stuck.

Hope giggled. “What is this? A fifties comedy routine?”

Sighing, Alex held out her arms, umpire style. “I say the grandparents and great-grandparents go first. Suzy, Ken, and Mama Gia, you three go ahead. Gianni and Ellie are next.” Eager faces stared back at her as if she were an elementary school principal. After everyone lined up as she suggested, she said, “The rest of us will follow in an orderly fashion.”

Giggling, Hope said, “Listen to Alex. She’s our boss—or thinks she is.”

Once they made it down the pristine hallway to the birthing room, Suzy burst into tears the moment she saw her scrub-wearing son holding the newborn. His baby girl. Her granddaughter.

As she cherished the touching scene, she noticed Fernando had also donned green scrubs and was glad Alex had diverted the healthcare professionals long enough for him to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.

Patting Vanessa’s arm, Suzy asked the new mom if she felt okay, told her she loved her, and made a beeline for the baby. She stroked the baby’s wet, red hair and kissed her plump, pink cheeks. “Looks like we have three generations of redheads.”

Ellie fluffed her own red hair and beamed at Gianni. “That makes me happy. She’s beautiful.”

“Congratulations, everyone. She’s a wonderful addition to our family.” Gianni chuckled and glanced at Fernando. “Our second wonderful addition in a day.”

Suzy beamed. “You’re great-grandparents, Mom and Dad.”

Vanessa propped herself up on two pillows, never taking her eyes off Jon and the baby. Fernando stood close by, pulled the white mask over his mouth and nose, and extended his arms. Glancing at Suzy and Mama Gia, he paused. “Unless you two want to hold her.”

Mama Gia took a step but Suzy said, “Dads first. We’ll get plenty of baby time.” She stood by Vanessa’s bedside and stroked her cheek. “I bet you’re exhausted.” The young mom’s sweaty hair was pushed off her forehead and auburn ringlets framed her face.

“I’m good.” She watched Jon and Fernando with her baby—their baby.” I’m really good. In fact, this is my most perfect day ever.”

Hovering, Mama Gia asked, “Where are your parents, Vanessa? Are they on their way?”

An uncomfortable silence filled the room. With the busy rehearsal dinner, wedding preparation, and wedding itself, Suzy hadn’t had time to fill Mama Gia in. She couldn’t even remember if she had told Alex and Hope how Vanessa’s parents had basically abandoned her once they heard she was an unwed mother.

Suzy noticed Vanessa’s eyes filled with tears. The last thing they needed on this celebratory day was a black cloud. “They won’t be here.”

“Why?” Mama Gia persisted.

“Because they’re, uh, busy.” Suzy pursed her lips and lowered her voice. “We don’t need to discuss this now. I’ll fill you in later.”

Thankfully Mama Gia didn’t press and lumbered over to Fernando who held the baby girl in the crook of his arms while Jon caressed her tiny pink arm. She leaned forward. “Beautiful bambino. Amore Tesoro.”

Jon frowned. “English, please.” He stared at Fernando. “You’re gonna have to give me a crash course in Italian. Grandpa never taught me. He always spoke English.”

“I haven’t forgotten.” Gianni spewed a string of Italian phrases to prove his point.

Everyone laughed and Mama Gia joined in. Fernando translated. “Mama said, ‘Beautiful baby. Sweet love’.”

“Oh.” Jon beamed at his new mother-in-law. Thanks. I, we, think so too.”

Swaddled in a soft fleece blanket, the men placed the sleeping baby on Vanessa’s chest. Vanessa pulled the blanket away and rubbed her wrinkled back. “Isn’t she beautiful?”

Fernando’s voice cracked. “She’s perfect.”

The young mother turned toward Jon and Fernando. “Sorry I messed up your wedding.”

“Don’t ever think that.” Jon leaned over the bedrail. “Have you named her?”

Vanessa shook her head. “I was waiting for you and Fernando. There are way too many choices online and in baby books. It’s overwhelming.” Vanessa peered at both men. “Let’s decide together.”

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