Page 139 of Forever Love

Leigh

Empowerment surges through me as my hands wrap around my baby. The feeling of pulling him out is impossible to describe. The physical sensations of pain and discomfort pale in comparison to the pride and love rolling through me.

“Hi, gorgeous,” I whisper as I pull him to me.

He screeches out a raspy cry that melts me instantly.

I hear a sniff and turn to look at Nick, who has tears in his eyes. “You’re incredible. And he’s perfect.”

“Mom pulled him out. You up for cutting the cord, Dad?”

Though some color drains from his face, he maintains a stiff jaw and nods. The doctor guides him over and hands him a pair of scissors, instructing him where to cut.

I get one more look at baby boy, then they whisk him away to check him, that raspy cry echoing through the room as they do. I want him back. I want him in my arms. I never want to let him go. Fuck everyone else who wants to hold him. Except Nick. And Abuelita. And Maia. That’s why they’re the only ones I allowed to come to the hospital. Maia might’ve wanted the full family experience, but I didn’t. I like things quiet and private.

I relax while I can before it’s time to push the placenta out—Maia warned me about that part.

“Sweet girl, you did incredible. I’m so proud of you.” Abuelita kisses my forehead. “He’s beautiful.”

I look into her eyes, and tears hit me for the first time. “Thank you. And thank you for always being here for me.”Damn it, now I’m close to blubbering. Fucking hormones.“I love you, Abuelita, and that little boy is going to adore you, too.”

She chuckles. “Ah, he’s going to have me wrapped around his perfect little fingers. I already know that much. As much as I want to hold him and give him all my love, I’m going to step out into the waiting room and let you and Nick have this time together. Maia and I will let everyone know. Still no visitors, right?”

“Except Nick’s parents, Vince, and Braden. Otherwise, not a soul.”

“Cross my heart, mija.” She kisses my cheek, then turns to Nick and gives him a bone-crushing hug. “Proud of you too, Nicholas.” She pinches his cheek before walking away.

“Oh, you think that’s funny, huh?” He leans down and kisses my lips, stopping my laughter.

“Here he is,” the nurse says, walking over with our sweet boy wrapped in blankets. Nick looks on in awe as she slides him into my arms. “Do we have a name yet?”

I smile up at Nick and he nods for me to say it. “Hunter Sebastián Ardito.”

“After my grandfather and your Abuelo. Perfect.”

“He’s perfect,” I whisper. “Hola, baby boy. In case you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m your mama. Which means I’m here to love you and take care of you forever and ever. And this—” I pause and tilt him toward Nick. “—is your Daddy. He’s going to take care of us and love us no matter how crazy we make him. He loves you so, so much.”

Tears prickle in my eyes again as I watch Nick lift our son into his arms. “Hey, buddy. So, I’ve gotta be honest with you. I don’t really know what I’m doing, but I know I love you, and I’m going to do my best to learn and be the best dad I can for you. And just so you know, you lucked out when it comes to moms. You have the greatest one in the world, and she’s only been at it for a little while. She’s gonna be your number one fan forever.”

He rocks Hunter back and forth as the doctor tells me it’s time to push the placenta out.

I’m over pushing. I’m ready for it to be our little family.

“He’s perfect. Aren’t you?” Abuelita coos before chattering away to him in Spanish.

Nick sits down on the side of the bed and wraps an arm around me. “How are you feeling?”

“Tired. Emotional. My boobs hurt. My vagina hurts. I’m still hungry.” I glance over at Abuelita and Hunter. “But my heart is full. So full.”

He leans his head against mine. “You were such a badass during that delivery. I couldn’t believe my eyes through most of it. I’ve never known anyone as strong as you.”

I turn my head slightly and kiss him. “And I’ve never known anyone who loves the way you do. Some days, you’re the glue holding me together. My strength, your heart, we make a good team.”

“Yes, we do.” He lifts my hand up and kisses it. “And we always will.”

I don’t say this lightly, but ugh, I’m swooning.

Clearing my throat, I look at Abuelita. “Can I have my baby back, please?”

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