Page 61 of Through the Storm

“Thanks for coming tonight,” she says. “I know it was… a lot.”

“It’s not.” I shake my head. “It’s nice.”

And I mean it.

Declan catches my eye from across the table and raises his glass.

I raise mine back.

No idea how long his approval will last. I don’t know if I’ve earned any of this. But tonight, at least, they’re letting me try.

The room is dim, the lights are low, the screen is glowing softly at the foot of the bed. Katy’s lying back, paper crinkling beneath her, one hand gripping Declan’s fingers, the other resting protectively over her belly. Ella stands near the counter, arms crossed, acting very professionally but clearly invested. I hover just behind them, trying not to look like I’m about to pass out.

Her doctor enters with a warm smile.

“Good morning, Katy. How are we feeling today?”

“Nervous,” Katy admits. “And hungry. I’m always hungry.”

Dr. Meier chuckles. “Very expected.” She glances around the room. “Looks like you brought a whole support squad today.”

“This is Ben,” Katy says.

I straighten instinctively, like I’m being called on in class.

Dr. Meier’s smile widens as she shakes my hand. “Nice to finally meet you, Dad.”

The word lands like a dropped tray.

I freeze.

Declan’s head snaps toward her.

“Oh, no.” He lifts a hand. “He’s not… he’s just…”

“Another uncle,” Ella supplies smoothly, without missing a beat. “We collect them.”

Fuck. That feels all wrong. But I can’t just claim the baby without Katy’s permission.

Dr. Meier blinks once, then laughs softly. “Ah. Got it. Apologies.” Her tone is gentle, but her eyes flick to Katy, curious.

Katy doesn’t look at me. She just smiles at the ceiling, cheeks faintly pink.

I love that she wasn’t the one who corrected the doctor. And I hate how much I wish she’d been right.

She pulls on gloves and gestures to the tech. “Alright. Let’s take a look at this little mystery baby.”

The screen flickers.

And then…

“There we go,” Dr. Meier says softly. “Strong heartbeat. Everything looks good.”

Katy’s breath catches. Declan squeezes her hand. Ella leans closer, eyes bright.

I don’t think I breathe at all.

Dr. Meier moves the wand slightly, studying the image. “And if our guest is willing to cooperate today…”