Chapter 19
WHENConnor and the others reached Ryland and Lia’s suite, the first thing he noticed was the aura of peace. It radiated all over that section of the floor, even through the closed door. Perhaps it had something to do with the hushed tones coming from inside. Grabbing Elaine’s hand, he knocked lightly and led the others in.
Lia lay on the couch, holding a little bundle. A beautiful smile lit up her face. Ryland, crouching next to her, had tears in his eyes. They were surrounded by Soren, Gioia, Fleur, and Jani. Marcelle was there too, holding baby Lloyd, keeping Andy and Layla at bay. Josh stood behind them, recording something on a piece of paper. Everyone looked up as they entered.
They might have missed the birth, but Mom and baby looked healthy, and that was all that mattered.
Ryland stood, wiped his eyes with the back of his hand, and walked over to greet them. “Hey. Everything okay?”
“Yeah,” said Connor. “Everything’s fine.”
“Good.” Ryland beamed. “Come meet our son.”
They all approached, moving slowly and gingerly as a unit, as if their movements would jostle the baby. As they huddled around the new family, Connor checked on Josh. “The man gets injured and still can’t stay away from work.” He clapped him on the back. “You’re a trooper, Doc.”
Josh smiled. “This isn’t work. This is family.”
“Don’t you worry, Connor,” said Marcelle as she handed Lloyd to Charlotte. “Josh and I had some time to talk while we were locked in that basement. We’re planning a long vacation.”
“Together?”
Marcelle smiled at Josh. “Together.”
Connor shook Josh’s hand. “Congratulations, guys. That’s awesome.”
Elaine brushed some damp hair off Lia’s forehead. “How’s Mom?”
“Sore and tired,” Lia replied, “but happy. He’s perfect. Here, Elaine. Hold him.”
Elaine took the baby from Lia. “He’s beautiful. So much black hair like his dad.” She touched his cheek. “Hey, little guy. Welcome to the family.”
“His name is Kody,” said Lia.
“Short for Kodiak.” Ryland grinned. “He’s going to be one tough bear.”
“Kody Snow.” Elaine kissed the infant. “I love it.”
“Actually,” said Ryland, “his full name is Kody Gleason Snow.”
Elaine’s eyes filled with tears. “Thank you. Lloyd would be so proud.” She held him up for Connor to see. “Look, Connor. He’s adorable.”
Connor rested his head on her shoulder. “He sure is.” He touched the tiny toes, just visible under the tip of the swaddling blanket. “Look at those chubby toes. I think he has your feet, Ry.”
“Nah, mine are too hairy. He must have his mom’s.” Ryland leaned over and kissed Lia’s cheek. “I love you.”
She leaned against him and closed her eyes for a moment.
“Mommy, Mommy!” Layla danced around Elaine’s feet. “Can I hold him?”
“Please,” begged Andy. “I promise not to drop him.”
Elaine glanced at Lia and Ryland. They nodded.
“Okay,” said Elaine. “Let’s all sit over here together, and I’ll help you. But we can’t keep him too long. Everyone wants a chance to meet baby Kody.” She had them sit next to her on the opposite couch and taught them how to hold a baby.
Rapt, Connor watched his little family. His heart was filled to bursting. Seeing Elaine, her face transformed, he’d never been so happy.
He wanted this. With her. One day, if she was in agreement, maybe they could talk about having their own child. Nothing would make him prouder than to create a little brother or sister for Layla and Andy.
