Page 63 of Justice

“My wife is sick and I heard that Elle had her baby, so I thought I’d come up and visit but I will come back when she’s got less company,” I explain to him, and he studies me for a moment before he lets me go.

Stupid fuckers, all of them.

I’ve been right under their noses the entire time.

Chapter 13

Elle

THE NEXT EVENING

I yawn,trying not to get pissed that this nurse has come in for the tenth time in the last hour while I’m trying to nap.

I sent everyone home earlier to get some rest, yet over half of the club has decided to stay the night and into the early morning in the waiting room.

But there’s no point in everyone wearing themselves out.

My dad is asleep on the pull-out recliner that converts to a bed. I made room for Christopher in the bed with me, and my mom is home to make sure my brother Lawson is good.

The nurse offered to take Miracle to the nursery for the night so I could rest but I couldn’t bear the thought of her being out of my sight for even a moment. I know it's irrational, but the protective instinct that has taken over me is all-consuming.

I glance over at Miracle's bassinet, where she sleeps peacefully, her tiny hands curled into fists near her face. The sight of her fills my heart with a love so intense it takes my breath away. I still can't believe she's really here.

Christopher stirs beside me, his arm tightening around my waist as he pulls me closer. Even in sleep, he seeks to comfort and protect me. I snuggle into him feeling safe.

The nurse finally finishes her checks and leaves the room, the door clicking softly behind her. I let out a sigh of relief, hoping to catch a few more precious moments of rest before Miracle wakes for her next feeding.

Just as I'm about to drift off, a soft whimper emanates from the bassinet. My eyes snap open, and I carefully extract myself from Christopher's arms, trying not to wake him. I pad softly over to Miracle, scooping her up and cradling her against my chest.

"Shh, it's okay, baby girl," I whisper, gently rocking her as I make my way back to the bed. "Mama's here."

I settle back against the pillows, guiding Miracle to my breast.

She latches on eagerly, her little mouth working as she nurses. I stroke her soft cheek, marveling at the perfection of her features. These quiet moments, just the two of us, feel sacred and precious.

As Miracle feeds, I let my mind wander to the future. I imagine watching her grow, taking her first steps, saying her first words. I picture Christopher teaching her to ride a bike, my dad reading her bedtime stories. A smile tugs at my lips as I envision the incredible life we'll build for her.

Christopher begins to stir again, his eyes blinking open. He turns his head, his gaze landing on me and Miracle. A sleepy smile spreads across his face as he takes in the sight.

"Hey," he murmurs, his voice rough with sleep. "Everything okay?"

I nod, my own smile mirroring his. "Just feeding our hungry little lady," I reply softly.

He sits up, scooting closer to us. His hand comes to rest on Miracle's back, his thumb gently caressing her soft skin. "She's incredible, Elle," he whispers, awe coloring his tone.

"I know," I agree, leaning my head against his shoulder. "She's our little angel."

We sit in comfortable silence, watching as Miracle finishes feeding. I gently detach her, lifting her to my shoulder to burp her. Christopher reaches out, his hand rubbing soothing circles on her back.

After a few pats, Miracle lets out a tiny burp, drawing a chuckle from both of us. I settle her back in my arms, her eyelids already drooping as she drifts back to sleep.

"Here, let me take her," Christopher offers, holding out his arms. "You should try to get some more rest."

I hesitate for a moment, reluctant to let her go. But the exhaustion tugging at my body wins out, and I carefully transfer Miracle into Christopher's waiting embrace. He cradles her with a tenderness that makes my heart ache, his eyes filled with pure adoration.

As I watch Christopher gently lay our daughter back in her bassinet, I'm overwhelmed by a sense of gratitude and love.

I settle back against the pillows, my eyes growing heavy. Christopher climbs back into bed beside me, pulling me into his arms. I rest my head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart.

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