Pulse of the Beat

CHAPTER 39: Love, Laughter, and Homecomings.

Sorry is all I have to say....
It's not the same length as CHAPTER 38 but still long enough; 23,567 words in total
So ENJOY  !...❤️😽

The first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow over the hospital room. The sterile scent of disinfectant mingled with the comforting presence of the newborn nestled in Lucy's arms. One-day-old Leo had been an angel through the night, his tiny form barely stirring except to nurse. Tim sat nearby, his chair pulled close to the bed, his eyes flickering between Lucy and their son with an awe he hadn't thought could still surprise him. He had been through this three times already, and yet, this moment still felt as miraculous as the first.

The quiet knock on the door interrupted their peaceful moment. A nurse entered, clipboard in hand, her smile warm as she approached them.

"Good morning, Mr. and Mrs. Bradford," she greeted softly. "How are you feeling, Lucy?"

Lucy adjusted her position, careful not to jostle Leo. Her smile was tired but genuine. "A little sore, but honestly... I'm good. Really good."

Tim glanced at her, his concern etched on his face. "She's been up most of the night. And before you say anything, I did offer to take over, but she wouldn't let me."

Lucy rolled her eyes fondly. "He doesn't have the equipment, you know?"

The nurse chuckled as she moved closer to check Leo. She lifted the tiny baby gently, her practiced hands efficient but gentle as she examined him. "Well, he looks perfect. His vitals are great, and he's nursing well. He's a strong little guy."

Tim puffed out his chest a bit at the compliment. "Takes after his dad."

Lucy smirked but didn't argue, too captivated by the sight of her baby being handled with such care.

The doctor entered shortly after, flipping through Lucy's chart as he approached. "Morning, Lucy, Tim. Let's see how everything's looking today." She gave her a reassuring nod before launching into her examination. She asked questions about her pain levels, the bleeding, and her ability to rest, noting her answers carefully. Then she turned her attention to Leo again, checking the baby's reflexes, weight, and overall health.

"Well," the doctor said after finishing, "both of you are doing wonderfully. Lucy, your recovery is on track, and Leo is as healthy as can be. I'm going to go ahead and sign your discharge papers."

Relief washed over Lucy, and she glanced at Tim, who squeezed her hand. They had only been at the hospital for a day, but she already missed the chaos and love waiting for her at home.

As the nurse and doctor left the room, Tim started packing their things, moving with a quiet efficiency that Lucy loved. It wasn't long before Leo was safely buckled into his car seat, and Tim carried it out with the same care he'd use to hold a priceless artifact. Lucy walked slowly beside him, her steps measured, her body still adjusting. Tim hovered protectively, his free hand ready to steady her if needed.

By the time they pulled into the driveway, the house was eerily quiet—a stark contrast to the usual buzz of laughter, shrieks, and running feet. Lucy knew the kids were there; Tamara had brought them home earlier, giving her and Tim a chance to handle the hospital discharge. She felt a pang of gratitude for Tamara's help. At only 22, she had stepped up in ways Lucy hadn't anticipated, balancing college and being a supportive young cool aunt to the little ones.

Tim unlocked the door, carrying Leo's car seat into the living room, and Lucy followed behind. The moment they stepped inside, Tamara appeared, grinning.

"Welcome home!" she whispered, glancing pointedly toward the playroom where Emma, Ethan, and Lena were. "I managed to keep them distracted, but they've been dying to see you."