June 14 2019
The hospital discharge process took longer than they hoped—paperwork, car seat checks, and a nurse briefing AJ like she was being handed the crown jewels. Dave carried the bags while AJ, still sore but glowing, sat in a wheelchair holding Mateo , who was bundled up like a little king in his soft blue blanket.
Luke was waiting by the car, already holding the back door open. He nodded at the nurse, then looked at Mateo.
Luke (softly)- Ready to roll out, little man?
AJ (smirking)-He's got no clue how chaotic his life's about to be.
Dave gently took Mateo from her and secured him in the car seat with surprising ease. He kissed his tiny forehead.
Dave-Let's get you home, son.
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**The drive was quiet**, gentle R\&B playing low on the speakers. AJ leaned her head against the window, watching the trees blur by. Dave glanced in the rearview mirror every ten seconds, just to make sure Mateo was still breathing.
AJ- You're checking like he's gonna teleport.
Dave (laughing)- I can't help it. He's so small. And quiet.
AJ- Yeah, he's saving the loud for 3 a.m.
Luke (from the driver's seat)-I've already got earplugs.
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**When they pulled up to the house,** it was decorated with a giant "Welcome Home, Baby Mateo!" banner. Balloons floated by the porch, and a small table sat nearby with cupcakes and cards—courtesy of Tony and Carla.
Dave unlocked the door while AJ stood on the threshold, Mateo in her arms.
AJ (whispering)-Welcome home, baby boy.
As they stepped inside, it was like the whole house exhaled. Warmth. Safety. Love. Everything softened.
The living room had been baby-proofed, bassinet set up in the corner, a baby monitor on the end table, and a diaper changing station fully stocked.
Dave-Tony went all out. Either that or Ma snuck in and mama-bear'd everything
AJ (smiling)- Let's be honest... it was your mama.
They placed Mateo gently in his bassinet. He stirred but stayed asleep, his tiny fists curled under his chin.
Dave wrapped his arms around AJ from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder.
Dave (quietly)-We really made him.
AJ (smiling)- Yeah. And I pushed him out, just a reminder.
Dave (chuckling)- You'll never let me forget that, huh?
AJ- Nope. Never.
They sat on the couch, exhausted but happy. For the first time in days, there was silence—but the comforting kind.
Then, the front door creaked open slightly—Tony peeking in.
Tony (whispering)- Can I see him?
AJ- Come on. But be quiet.
Tony tiptoed in and peered over the bassinet, eyes wide.
Tony (softly)-Damn. He really looks like you, AJ .
AJ-Told you.
Tony-Still got dave's stubborn forehead, though.
AJ laughed, and Mateo stirred again.
AJ (yawning)- We should nap while we can.
Dave-You nap. I'll stand here and stare at him for three hours straight.
AJ-I believe you.
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**Later that night**, with everyone gone and the house quiet again, AJ and Dave lay in bed with Mateo asleep in a crib beside them. The baby monitor glowed softly.
AJ (half-asleep)-This is the happiest I've ever been.
-Dave (stroking her hair)- Me too. This... this is everything.
They drifted off to sleep to the rhythm of soft breathing and the hum of a peaceful home—new parents, new love, and a future just beginning.
