Masked Facade

Chapter 2: The Meeting

Raelyn's POV

Society threw criticism at every point in the past when I had Chloe and Caleb. Every time I felt low, the determination to nurture them grew against all the obstacles in my life. I had my ups and downs but in defense it only helped me sharpen my skills and today I was one proud single mother.

The memory of that night, when I suffered to handle a crying Chloe all night, was still etched to my brain like it happened yesterday.

******

Five years ago...

I sat down at the end of my bed with Chloe cradling my lap. It took everything in me to calm Caleb down. But Chloe was not the one to do the same. Her body was warm. Scratch that. Her body temperature was far from warm with her flushed skin and her brown eyes were puffed due to continuous sob she let out.

Earlier I got her checked up and the doctor assured me that it was totally fine with newborns. But I couldn't buy it. My heart was hammering against my rib cage all the while when Chloe was crying non-stop.

"Wish you could tell me your problem, kiddo..."

I knew I sounded pathetic but I was totally helpless.

Suddenly someone knocked on my door. I cradled Chloe in my arms while she squirmed and wiggled to get out of my hold. When I opened the door, my eyes caught the sight of a fine young lady with red hair flowing swiftly around her shoulder blades. She was dressed in pajamas which clearly indicated that she was getting ready to bed.

Maybe she got disturbed due to Chloe. I felt awful for her.

"I'm sorry for disturbing you..." My voice trailed off while I rocked Chloe.

Caressing Chloe's back, she glanced at me with a warm smile playing at her lips and said, "Don't be. By the way, I'm Katie and also your neighbor. Do you need any help with...?"

Trailing off she glanced between me and Chloe. I didn't want to show her that I am incapable of handling my baby. But at the same time, some help from her wouldn't hurt me. Smiling her way, I nodded my acceptance and invited her inside.

"Did you take her out, today, in the sun?" She weighed every word carefully.

"Yeah, why?" I asked worrying my lips.

At that she let out a sigh and my heart skipped a beat in anxiety.

"Babies are more sensitive to heat. Considering today's weather, it might have slightly affected your baby."

I felt terrible for doing that. What was I thinking while I took Chloe and Caleb out for a walk?

Stupid woman!

"Shit! I shouldn't have taken her with me. How could I be so irresponsible that -"

"Hey, it's okay. Trust me." Katie shushed me silently rubbing my back in a comforting manner. "They indeed need some exposure to the outside world, but not too much. Just make sure that she is covered with loose clothing. And always keep the baby in the shade while you're outdoor." She explained me not for once taking her eyes off of Chloe. Her thoughts sounded like an experienced mother.

After a while, my baby girl drifted off peacefully​ in my arms when I made her comfortable enough.

No matter how tired I was, or how much work I needed to get done, I couldn't help but stop and stare at my sleeping babies. Caleb was elder to Chloe just by two minutes. That didn't change the fact how much I loved both of them equally.