Chapter 14 - THE BABY COULDN’T WAIT
At thirty-five weeks, Benjamin’s heart tracing changed.
Repeated decelerations.
Placental concerns.
Emily’s pregnancy had survived extraordinary circumstances, but obstetrics had always warned that stability could change quickly.
Dr. Harris recommended delivery.
Daniel felt panic.
“Can Emily consent?”
That question mattered now.
With assisted communication, she could.
The team spent nearly an hour explaining.
Delivery risks.
Anesthesia.
Possibility of cesarean.
Maternal neurological concerns.
Emily answered.
Yes.
Daniel cried.
“You’re sure?”
One press.
He laughed through tears.
“Bossy even unconscious.”
Her finger moved once.
Yes.
Benjamin Carter was born by cesarean section two days later.
Five pounds, six ounces.
Strong cry.
No major complications.
Daniel held him beside Emily.
“This is your son.”
Her eyelids fluttered.
Not open.
Then her fingers moved against the blanket.
Daniel placed Benjamin’s tiny hand near hers.
Mother and son touched.
No miracle.
No sudden awakening.
Just contact.
Enough.
Lily visited later with a drawing.
Not soil.
Dr. Harris had made his feelings about jars extremely clear.
She drew Emily as a tree.
Roots beneath her.
Baby in the branches.
Daniel smiled.
“What does this mean?”
Lily shrugged.
“People wake up slow.”
He looked at her.
“Who told you that?”
May you like
“Nobody.”
Children sometimes said things adults spent years learning.
