Page 89 of Omega in Hiding

Paolo is calmer now that we’re at the hospital. I suppose it would be terrifying to know nothing about baby birthing, but be the only other person there with the person in labor. He must have felt terrified that he would have to possibly deliver the baby if things moved too quickly.

“I love you so much,” I say, looking up at him. “I can’t believe this is happening. I never thought I’d see the inside of a labor delivery room.” I look around, taking in the sights and sounds of the room. It’s surreal to be about to give birth to our baby.

He smiles down at me. “I knew those doctors were wrong. Our child was fated to be born.” He kisses my sweaty forehead. “You’re doing so well, Connor. You’re so much braver than I’d be.”

I give a weak smile. “I wouldn’t say I’m brave. I’m scared to death.”

“You hide it well.”

I lay my head back against the bed. “Well, let’s not forget, I’ve had a lot of practice hiding things.”

He smiles. “You don’t have to hide anymore, okay?”

“Okay.”

Hours pass, and the contractions grow more intense. Paolo stays by my side, holding my hand and offering encouragement. The room is filled with the sounds of beeping monitors and the quiet murmurs of the medical staff.

The pain is increasing hugely with every passing moment. It feels like I’m being ripped apart inside. “When am I going to get my epidural?” I whine. “I don’t want to miss the window and then they tell me I can’t have one.”

“Let me go ask.” Paolo disappears into the hallway. He returns a few minutes later with a woman in her late thirties with short, dark hair and kind eyes.

“I’m Dr. Rivera,” she says. Her tone is calm and efficient. “I’m the anesthesiologist. I’ll be administering your epidural.”

Feeling grumpy with pain, I mumble, “What took you so long?”

She smiles. “Sorry. Tonight seems to be an unusually busy night in the labor and delivery area.”

“I’m sure you’re moving as quickly as possible,” Paolo says politely. His tone also says, “Could you move it along, lady?”

Dr. Rivera had some things on a tray and she fiddles with them for a few moments. “Connor, I’ll need you to sit up and lean forward slightly. Paolo, you can help support him."

Paolo gently helps me into the right position, supporting me as I lean forward, exposing my back. The nurse disinfects the area on my lower back, explaining each step which helps keep me calm. There’s nothing worse than being ignored, while people work on you like you’re a crash dummy.

Dr. Rivera picks up a sterile needle and syringe. "Okay, Connor. You’ll feel a small pinch and some pressure, but it shouldn’t be too painful. Just take deep breaths and relax."

“I’m sure it’s better than the pain I’m already feeling,” I mutter.

Dr. Rivera smiles. “Absolutely.”

I wince slightly as the needle is inserted, but Paolo holds my hand, whispering encouraging words. Dr. Rivera expertly administers the epidural, and she’s right, there is some pressure as the medicine enters my body.

Dr. Rivera meets my gaze. "The medication is in. You should start feeling relief in a few minutes. If you experience any discomfort or need adjustments, let us know."

I groan and grin up at Paolo. “It’s already better.”

Paolo looks relieved. “Thank God.”

Dr. Rivera laughs and leaves the room.

Hours pass, but this time it’s okay because I’m not in pain the entire time. The twisting of my organs feeling is gone. I actually doze off a few times, happy each time I wake up to see Paolo sitting beside my bed. He holds my hand the entire time. I’m not even sure he ever takes a bathroom break.

Eventually, one of the nurses during her hundredth check of my cervix, announces that I’ve reached full dilation, and that it’s time. The epidural is turned off, much to my chagrin, but Dr. Martinez explains if I can’t feel anything, I can’t push properly. Personally, I think he’s just a cruel bastard, who likes torturing pregnant omegas, but that might be the pain talking.

Without the numbing of the epidural, the urge to push becomes overwhelming. The medical team prepares for delivery, positioning me by putting my feet in stirrups, and getting the necessary equipment ready.

Dr. Martinez returns to my room, looking harassed. I remember Sully in that moment and how much he loved his job. I hope Sully is doing well, and I hope Dr. Martinez loves his job as much as Sully.

"Alright, Connor, it’s time to push.” Dr. Martinez’s eyes crinkle at me over the top of his mask. “You’re going to push when the contractions hit. That way you and your body are working together to get the baby out. Okay?”

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