I look up to find Miles walking toward me with the brightest smile I’ve seen on his face in days.
He leans down to give me a quick peck on the lips before brushing his thumb against my cheek.
“What are you talking about?” I ask, my pulse picking up speed.
“I just came back from seeing Millie,” he says, barely containing his excitement.
“Miles,” I warn impatiently. “Tell me.”
A playful grin takes over his face. “I think I’ll just let the doctor do that.”
My eyes dart toward the doorway.
My OB is standing there beside a nurse.
And the nurse is holding Millie.
“How are you feeling?” Dr. Clark asks.
“I’m extremely confused,” I admit through a watery laugh, tears slipping down my cheeks now. I don’t dare wipe them away. I don’t want to get ahead of myself.
Dr. Clark smiles. “Well, after today’s evaluation, I’m officially signing off on Millie’s discharge papers.” She looks down at our daughter before meeting my gaze again. “This little girl is ready to go home.”
A sob tears out of me so suddenly, my knees give out.
But before I can hit the floor, Miles is there.
His arms wrap around me as he presses his face into my hair.
“We’re going home, sugar,” he whispers brokenly.
And for the first time since Millie was born, the crushing weight on my chest finally lifts.
I close my eyes and send a silent prayer to heaven, thanking God for giving me a man to build a beautiful life with and a daughter to dote on for the rest of my days.
Epilogue
Miles
May — Following Year
Spring is in full bloom in the mountains, and the Penelope rose bush has more flowers than I’ve ever seen.
Even though Penny mostly works from home now, I still bring her fresh flowers every single day.
These past few months have been one hell of a learning experience.
Every time we think we’ve finally figured Millie out, boom. She hits another milestone, and suddenly we’re right back at square one.
But even with the sleepless nights and the chaos, I wouldn’t trade my girls for anything in the world.
Watching Penny’s entire face light up every time Millie smiles at her. Holding Penny after a long day. Bath time with Millie splashing water all over me while Penny laughs from the doorway.
Those are the moments that matter.
Today, though?
Today is special.
