Glad You Called (Bradga)

Epilogue

Since an open end for that story was kinda impossible to do, here's the epilogue. I didn't read through it yet, if there are any mistakes, I'm sorry.

....................

He was shaking a little, which is why she put her hand in his. His thumb automatically stroked the back of her hand as he watched her hand for a moment. Their eyes met and exchanged so much love. A look that gave him strength to not lose his nerves.

Stef, no matter what's the result of the test, I love you and I love her.

I know. We love you just as much as you do! 

She slid her chair closer to him and leaned her head against his shoulder. The sterile smell, typical hospital smell, didn't make it any better. Suddenly, the door handle moved. His jaw visibly tightened and her grip tightened as well. Immediately the two stood up and waited for the words from the doctor.

The results are ready. Sometimes it's better not to be the father after all, right? Haha.

The doctor winked at him and gave Stefani the envelope. At that moment, something changed in Bradley's face. As soon as the doctor left, still in a happy mood, Bradley sank back into the chair. Stefani was immediately beside him, hugging him.

I'm so sorry.

She gave him a kiss on the forehead, trying to hold the broken pieces of his heart together somehow.

Come on, let's go home.

The ride was silent. Stefani didn't know what to say. It was a natural reaction from him, she probably would have reacted the same way. When the car came to a stop in front of the house, they remained seated.

I'm sorry I'm like this.

She brought her finger under his chin, forcing him to look at her.

You don't have to apologize, okay? If someone has to, it's definitely me who has to apologize.

I just kind of had hope. That's all we ever wanted.

She pulled his head against her chest so her mouth was right next to his ear.

I'm so sorry!

Quietly a few tears flowed down her cheeks.

I should have waited. I shouldn't have been the way I was.

Again, the air around her was silent.

Its not your fault. I just- I had high hopes.

Nobody said a word when they stayed in that position. She was just holding him.

I want her to have your name. I want her to own that. Be a part of you.

Bradley took a deep breath, wiping the two tears from his cheeks with the back of his hand.

Really?

There's nothing I'd like more.

He pulled her close to him.

I love you! I love you so much! I love her!

I know. Come let's go to her. She'll still be your little girl, no matter what, okey? We both and her.

As they entered the house they heard sweet baby laughter coming from the living room. Sarah had been with Rosie in the meantime and watched her. Looking at the faces of Stefani and Bradley, she knew she didn't need to ask any more questions, just said goodbye to give them both some peace. Stefani laid the baby down on the large rug and went briefly into the kitchen to get some water. Bradley had put his jacket away and was now sitting on the sofa. When Stefani returned, they both watched briefly as Rosie waved a paper back and forth in her hand until Stefani picked her up and smiled at her. She passed her to Bradley, who looked at her a little sadly, but still had this glow in his eyes, as always when he saw her.

Well, did you and Sarah have fun while we were gone?

He nudged her belly with his nose, eliciting a laugh. She still had the note in her hand and was making fluttering motions with her arms.

What have you got there darling?

Stefani slid closer, leaning against him and watching her little girl. Carefully she tried to take the note from her little hand, but the grip was strong.

Did you steal some important piece of paper again, huh?

Stefani asked in her baby voice, tickling her sides a bit, which made the baby let go of the note. Bradley did well to hold Rosie. Within the last two months, he had taken on the complete role of father. He'd been there ever since she'd called. Their relationship was going the same way as before, except now life was much more relaxed. They no longer cared about the outside world, but had their own little world within their four walls. At home. The disappointment was great since he had heard the doctor's words, but he was doing bravely. Even if he was not the biological father, he would always be a father for her. After it had been quiet for a long time, he looked to his left, where Stefani had been sitting leaning against him just a moment before.

Stef?

Her eyes were glued to the note, one hand resting on her mouth. Only after he put Rosie between them did he see that her cheeks were all wet.

Hey, what's wrong?

She was sobbing loudly, but didn't look sad.

What happened?

With a trembling hand, she pulled his head closer to kiss him. He tasted her salty tears on her lips. Then she leaned her forehead against his, stealing another kiss.

B, you are her father.

She felt his eyebrows draw together questioningly, full of disbelief.

Can we just- not bring up the subject again for today?

No, B, you are her father! You are her real father! You! She is your baby!

Her small hand held the paper out to him, trying not to shake too much so he could read it himself. His breath stopped for a moment, he could have bet that his heart stopped at that moment.

"Regarding the DNA sequences tested, we can say with a certainty of 99.999% that there is paternity."

His eyes were wet again and tears streamed down his cheeks. He lifted Rosie up, gave her a big kiss on her hair, and then hugged her to him. He pulled Stefani close to him as well.

Our family. Our daughter. She's our little baby, Stef.

She never saw a bigger smile on his face as in that exact moment.

That's all I ever wanted!