This is our first full day home with her. Our first time having everyone we love in the same room to meet our daughter. My mom is sitting next to Blair, her eyes never leaving Isla’s face. She’s been here since the moment we texted that we were home. My dad is standing near the windows withRachel, both of them smiling at the baby with that grandparent glow.
Jake’s mom beaming from the screen of the laptop propped on the coffee table, her face bright even through the video call. “She’s absolutely precious,” Linda says for probably the tenth time. “I can’t wait to hold her in person.”
“We’ll fly you out soon,” Jake promises.
“No rush,” Linda says. “You two focus on adjusting. I’ll be there when you’re ready.”
“She’s so tiny,” Blair whispers. “I forget how small they are when they’re brand new.”
“Seven pounds eleven ounces is not that small,” I say from my spot on the couch. Everything still hurts—sitting, standing, existing—but I’m too happy to care. “The nurses said she was a great size for thirty-six weeks.”
“And twenty-one inches long,” Jake adds from beside me. His good hand is resting on my knee, his cast propped on a pillow. “She’s going to be tall.”
“Just like her dad,” Wyatt says, appearing from the kitchen with a beer. “Congrats again, man. She’s beautiful.”
“She really is,” Sophia agrees. She’s sitting on the floor next to Hazel, who’s been surprisingly gentle and curious about the baby. “That dark hair is gorgeous. And those eyes—do you think they’ll stay blue?”
“We’re hoping,” I say, though honestly I don’t care what color her eyes end up being. She’s perfect exactly as she is.
Stella emerges from Jake’s kitchen. It’s turning into what I’m learning is her favorite spot. She’s carrying a plate of cookies she’s just made for us. “Okay, I have a very important question. How did you decide on Isla?”
Jake and I exchange a glance.
“Jake suggested it, and I loved it immediately. It felt right.”
My mom smiles. “It’s a beautiful name. Strong and feminine at once.”
My dad nods. “Isla Elizabeth Reyes. It suits her.”
“It’s perfect,” Jess says. She and Lucas are wedged together in the armchair, his arm around her shoulders.
Brandon appears from the hallway where he’d been taking a phone call. “Sorry, work thing. Did I miss anything?”
“Just Natalie explaining the name,” Stella says, moving to make room for him on the couch.
“Isla’s a great name. Strong and delicate.” He grins at me. “Also, Stella and I left something in the nursery for you guys. Don’t freak out.”
“Why would I freak out?”
“Because it’s big.”
“How big?”
“You’ll see.”
Before I can ask more questions, Grant stands from where he’s been sitting with Sophia and Hazel. “We should probably head out. It’s getting close to Hazel’s bedtime, and I’m sure you guys want some quiet time with the baby.”
“You don’t have to leave,” Jake starts, but I can hear the exhaustion in his voice. We’ve been running on adrenaline and about three hours of sleep for the past two days.
“We do,” Blair says gently, standing and carefully transferring Isla back to me. The baby stirs but doesn’t wake, her tiny fist curling near her face. “You twoneed rest. And bonding time. And all the things new parents need without an audience.”
The exodus happens quickly after that. Hugs all around, promises to check in tomorrow, reminders that they’re just a phone call away if we need anything. Stella points dramatically toward the nursery when she leaves, mouthing “you’re welcome” at me.
And then it’s quiet.
Just me, Jake, and Isla.
I look down at the baby, still amazed that she’s real. That she’s ours. “Should we put her in the nursery? Let her sleep in her actual crib?”
