Page 9 of All of Me

The exam room is small but welcoming, with pale yellow walls and a mural of woodland animals frolicking through trees. I settle into the chair, carefully arranging Ruby’s blanket as the nurse begins taking her measurements.

“She’s doing great,” the nurse says, jotting down notes on a clipboard. “Eight pounds, fourteen ounces. Nice and steady weight gain. Dr. Everett will be in shortly.”

She leaves, and the room feels too quiet. Ruby stirs in my arms and I marvel at how perfect she is. She was just in my belly a few days ago, and now she’s here, fragile, but so strong and full of life.

The door opens softly, and Dr. Everett steps inside, her long dark hair tied back neatly and a friendly smile on her face. “Good morning, Callie,” she says, setting her tablet on the counter. “And hello to you, little one.”

“Hi, Dr. Everett,” I say, managing a small smile.

“How are you feeling?” she asks, her tone gentle as she sits down across from me.

“Better,” I reply, though the truth is more complicated. “Still a little sore, but it’s manageable.”

“That’s completely normal,” she reassures me, glancing at Ruby. “And how’s Miss Ruby doing? Eating well? Sleeping?”

“She’s doing great,” I say, stroking Ruby’s cheek. “She’s been eating like a champ. Sleeping… well, it’s hit or miss.”

Dr. Everett chuckles. “That’s to be expected at this stage. She’s still adjusting to the world, and so are you. But from what I see here, she’s healthy and thriving. You’re doing a great job, Callie.”

Her words settle something in me that I didn’t realize was tense. I exhale slowly, nodding.

Dr. Everett leans back, her tone shifting to something more practical. “Now, I want to take a moment to talk about your postpartum care. Have you thought about birth control yet?”

I blink, caught off guard. “Oh, uh… not really.”

“That’s okay,” Dr. Everett says, her tone warm and matter-of-fact. “It’s a lot to think about after having a baby, but it’s a good idea to start considering it now. That way, when you’re ready to be sexually active again, you’ll already be protected. Hormonal methods like the pill, patch, or IUD take some time to become fully effective, so getting ahead of it can save you stress later. If you’re planning to continue breastfeeding, the mini-pill is your best option. I can send in a prescription for you today if you’d like.”

I nod, my cheeks warming slightly—not from embarrassment, but from the flood of thoughts her words stir. “That sounds good. Let’s go ahead with the mini-pill.”

Her smile widens. “Great. I’ll send that in for you. Any other questions about birth control or anything else while we’re at it?”

“No,” I say, my voice soft but steady.

Dr. Everett nods, making a quick note on her tablet before turning her attention back to Ruby. “Well, everything looks great. You’re healing well, and Ruby’s thriving. You’re doing wonderfully, Callie.”

Her kind words settle over me, but my mind circles back to what she said about being ready. Dr. Everett leaves the room, I adjust Ruby’s blanket and think about Owen. The truth is I miss his touch. Personal touch has always been my love language, and Owen knows exactly how to make me feel grounded and cared for. Whether it’s the way his hand finds the small of my back when we walk into a room, the warmth of his arms around me when I feel overwhelmed, or the simple brush of his thumb over my cheek when he knows I need reassurance. Even in the haze of exhaustion and healing, I can’t help but look forward to the day when we can physically be together again.

It’s not just about sex—it’s about feeling close and connected. Owen has a way of filling up all the empty spaces in me, and I can’t wait to feel that again.

Ruby stirs in my arms, pulling me back to the moment. I glance down at her, marveling at her tiny features and the peaceful way she sleeps. She’s a miracle, and she’s ours.

I gather the diaper bag and prepare to leave when my phone vibrates in my pocket. I fish it out, balancing Ruby against my chest, and see Owen’s name on the screen.

Owen:

How are my favorite ladies doing?

A smile pulls at my lips as I type back, holding the phone with one hand while adjusting Ruby’s blanket with the other.

Me:

We’re doing great. Ruby charmed the doctor, of course. Taylor offered to take Sara so I didn’t have to bring her with to the appointment, thank goodness.

Can’t wait to see you tonight.

His response comes almost instantly.

Owen:

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