Page 60 of Justice

I look up at Christopher, smiling. “Miracle because she is our miracle.”

They all smile with happiness, knowing it’s perfect for our baby girl. She was the light in the darkest moment of my life.

“Does Dad want to cut the cord?”

Christopher cuts it, his hands shaking as he does so.

The nurse takes her from me and I have to stop myself from yelling at her to bring her back, my heart racing.

“I will go with her.” My mom and Amelia follow the nurse and Miracle.

Christopher kisses my cheek. “Are you feeling okay? Do you need me to get you anything?” he asks me.

I shake my head, my body trembling from the adrenaline.

Meadow finishes and pulls the blanket down. “We have another room here that is private and honestly, looks more like a bedroom. It’s down the hall, if you want to be moved when you feel up to it?”

This room is small and very sterile. I wanted to have her at home but that didn’t happen, so I’ll go with the next best thing.

I nod my head, eager to be in a more comfortable and private space. "Yes, I'd like that," I say, my voice hoarse from the exertion of labor.

Hours later and it’s time for me to be moved to a better room. They’ve been doing tests on Miracle the whole time since she’s a few weeks early, and no one has been able to hold her yet while they check her over.

I just want to get my hands on her.

My mom and Amelia have been hovering the whole time to make sure she’s safe.

Christopher helps me sit up, supporting my back as I gingerly swing my legs over the side of the bed. My body feels strange, like it's not my own anymore. Meadow and a nurse help me into a wheelchair, draping a soft blanket over my lap.

As they wheel me down the hallway, I can't help but feel a sense of surreal disbelief. Just a short while ago, I was carrying my baby inside me, and now she's here, a separate little being.

We enter the private room, and I'm pleasantly surprised by how inviting it looks. The walls are painted a soothing pastel color, and there's a comfortable-looking bed with plush pillows and a warm quilt. A rocking chair sits in the corner, perfect for nursing.

Christopher helps me settle into the bed, propping pillows behind my back for support. He sits on the edge of the mattress, holding my hand and gazing at me with pure adoration. "I'mso incredibly proud of you, Elle," he says, his voice filled with emotion. "You were a warrior today."

I smile weakly, exhaustion starting to settle into my bones. "I couldn't have done it without you.” He kisses me sweetly on the lips.

Meadow pushes Miracle in her little bed and settles her next to my bed. “Does Dad want to hold her?” Looking at Christopher, I can see he is nervous, but I know he’s dying to get his hands on her too.

I smile encouragingly at Christopher as Meadow carefully lifts Miracle from her bed. "Go ahead, honey. Hold your daughter," I tell him.

Christopher takes a deep breath and nods, his eyes filled with a mix of excitement and fear. He settles into the rocking chair and holds out his arms, ready to cradle her for the first time. Meadow gently places Miracle in his waiting embrace, ensuring he supports her head properly.

As Christopher gazes down at our daughter, a look of pure wonder and unconditional love washes over his face. Miracle stirs slightly, her tiny hand grasping his finger. In that moment, I know that Christopher's world has been forever changed, just as mine has.

"Hey there, little Miracle," he whispers, his voice trembling with emotion. "I'm your daddy. I've been waiting so long to meet you."

Tears spring to my eyes as I watch the tender exchange between father and daughter. My heart swells with love and gratitude for the incredible man who has stood by my side through everything.

Meadow smiles warmly at the sight before turning to me. "Elle, you should try to get some rest while you can. Your body has been through a lot today, and you'll need your strength for the days ahead."

I nod, realizing just how drained I feel. As much as I want to hold Miracle and never let her go.

Christopher looks up at me from the chair. “Sleep, angel, we will be here waiting for you when you wake up.”

Chapter 12

Elle

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