Page 75 of Tarnished Gold (Landry 5)

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trying to comfort and soothe me.

"Is he really perfect, Mama?"

"Yes, honey, he is. He's one of the prettiest

babies I've seen, and you know I've seen a few in my

time."

"Will he be all right?"

"I think so. He was breathing strong on his

own. It's good that they're having a doctor come

around, though. Let me tend to your bleeding,

Gabriel, and then let you rest. Damn your father for

hurrying away. I could use him now," she muttered. I lay back, exhausted, not only from the

delivery, but from the emotional pain of having only a

glimpse of baby Paul and then seeing him swept away from me instantly. Mama was right: This was a terrible feeling. I felt like I was trapped in a nightmare

that would haunt me forever.

It was very late by the time I felt strong enough

to get out of the bed and stand on my own. Mama held

me cautiously and had me walk around the room first.

Then she sat me down and went to find Octavious.

Since Daddy hadn't returned, she had to ask Octavious

to drive us home.

The house was dim and quiet with all the

servants gone. I paused outside the bedroom door on

the upstairs landing because I heard my baby crying. I

looked at Octavious.

"I want to see him," I said.

He looked at Mama and then me.

"I won't leave before I do," I threatened. He nodded. "Gladys is sleeping. She claims

she's exhausted. If you're very quiet about it . ." "I will be. I promise," I said.

"Gabriel. Maybe it's better you just leave,

honey. You're just prolonging the pain and . . ."

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