Chapter 13 - Emily Gives Birth Without Ryan Beside Her
At thirty-eight weeks, Emily went into labor.
Vincent drove her to the hospital.
He obeyed every instruction.
Mostly.
He argued with a vending machine.
Emily’s daughter was born healthy.
She named her Lucia Grace.
Vincent cried openly when he held her.
Emily took a photograph.
For once, nobody in the room was afraid of him.
Linda was not present at the birth.
Emily had not decided what future relationship, if any, she wanted with
her.
That decision could wait.
Ryan received information about the child through attorneys and
processes consistent with court orders and parental rights.
Emily refused to use Lucia as punishment.
She also refused to use motherhood as a reason to ignore safety.
Those distinctions were exhausting.
Necessary.
Real.
When Vincent handed Lucia back, he whispered:
“Your grandmother would have spoiled you.”
Emily laughed through tears.
May you like
It sounded like the notes he used to send.
Before fear took over everything.
