When Sky Breaks: Burn & Break Duet Book 2

55. August

EIGHT MONTHS LATER

The delivery roombuzzes with nurses readying the bassinet with a warmer and blankets.

Diapers are off to the side, along with anything else a newborn baby might need. Which is a fucking lot, I might add. Our house will need a remodel due to all the baby things taking over.

A pain shoots up my arm as Sky squeezes my fingers with every ounce of strength she possesses. For a little thing, she sure is strong.

I let none of that show as I brush back the damp hair from her sticky forehead.

She lets out a sharp breath and rides through another contraction. A weak whistle floats from her pursed lips and clenched teeth.

This time, I can’t help but chuckle softly. “Shortcake, we can’t run away from this.”

“Why not,” she whines, “this really hurts.”

“I know it does, but you’re having our baby. You try to leave and he’s still going to come with you and demand to be let out.”

She flings her head back on the pillow and cinches her eyes shut. “I’m so tired.”

I lean up and kiss her forehead.

She opens her bright blue eyes, ones I hope our son has.

“I’m right here, okay? Just hang on tight to me. I’ll help you get through it. You’re a badass, baby, don’t forget that. Strong and amazing. I can’t wait to see you be a mother.”

She pants and squeezes my hand tighter, if that’s even possible. “I’m scared I won’t be a good one.”

“You’re going to be everything he needs and more.”

Sky pushes when it’s time, and soon, the cries of our baby fill the delivery room. Tears cascade down her cheeks and mine once he’s lifted and placed on her chest.

Matted dark hair sticks to his head, and his little back heaves with each pull of his lungs. His cry penetrates deep in my chest.

I’m a father.

Years ago, I never, ever entertained the idea of fatherhood. I didn’t think I deserved to, that I’d only corrupt any future generations of me. Sky made me realize second chances exist, that forgiveness is possible for anyone willing to put in the work. And a home is never just a place but the people in it.

As I cut the umbilical cord and watch my son lie peacefully on his mother’s chest, a love so pure, so fierce pummels into me. Joy fills my lungs, burning away all the doubt and fears until these two beating hearts are all I see.

I watch my son purse his sweet baby lips and clench his perfect tiny fists. And as Sky kisses his soft head and curls a hand protectively over his body, my purpose becomes clear.

I’m meant to love and cherish the simple, beautiful moments I never thought I’d have. To store them in my heart and never forget how far we’ve come and how far we’ll go.