My CEO 380

380 A Tiny Dream of Hope

(Winona)

Henry's soft whimpers stir me from my thoughts, anchoring me back to the present. The kids will be almost finished with their chores.

I cross the room to his crib, our walk-in wardrobe converted into a makeshift nursery, and lean over to scoop him up. waving aimlessly in the air.

His little face scrunches, his Darely opening as he lets out a sleepy cry, his tiny fists

"Hey, sweet boy," I murmur, pressing a kiss to his forehead as I cradle him close. His soft baby scent fills me, warm and comforting. I hold him tighter, feeling a surge of emotion rise inside me. Despite everything Henry's been through, he'

here, healthy and full of life, and I still find myself amazed by the strength this tiny boy has shown. Delivered by Caesarian at 25 weeks, he spent those first days so fragile, connected to machines and tubes. Maybe that's all I need, to get to that point in the gestation. But even that is a pipe dream. But I wonder how far along I am already?

kiss Henry on the cheek. He's fought to make it through each day. It's a miracle he's made it this far, à gift I never stop being grateful for. Despite all the unhinged things Ashlyn did to me, I thank her for her final gift. Before the end came, she wanted the best for her baby

She even asked me to adopt him before she went off that facility roof. I don't believe that was an accident. It just smacks of Judy's interference. Jayden cut Judy off to protect us all.

There are days here when I could believe that has really happened.

But in reality I know thinking she's not in our lives would be a fool's game to play.

I settle Henry on the changing table, unwrapping him from his blanket as he wriggles and squirms. His sleepy eyes blink up at me, he gives me a smile and I feel a rush of love, so strong it's almost overwhelming.

I never imagined I'd be so lucky as to be his mom, to share this life with Jayden and watch him grow. He may not have grown inside me but he's every bit as lodged in my heart as Abby.

That goes for Bobby and Sarah too. All my kids. Everyone of them I'll protect with everything I have.

"Let's get you cleaned up, hmm?" I whisper, unfastening his diaper with gentle hands.

him have a kick around for a minute after I've wiped and powdered

baby inside me, to feel those tiny kicks. Just the thought makes my heart race with equal parts

should not

But then, isn't Henry proof that miracles can

whisper, smoothing a hand

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Tiny Dream

my arms, cuddling him close. There's so much I want to tell him, so much love I want to give, not just to him, but to the life growing inside me. If this pregnancy really is possible. But with the reality of my condition, I know carrying to term is a risk, one that could bring both heartbreak and loss

I was to get so far along I'd have

adjusting the blanket to keep him snug, and

Bobby and Sarah carefully tidying up the kitchen

but smile at their hard work, their faces lighting

I call out as they

says, giving me a grin as she puts away the

Bobby explains. "She peeled the carrots and took the peelings to

time at the

go get Abby," Bobby

to see some paint go on the walls. I think we can move in when

cool." He heads off to

calling Viktor as we all head down the pathway

to Viktor's number. If there's anyone I can rely on for privacy and discretion, it's him. My

The call connects. "Hello."

don't tell

a brief pause, and he replies smoothly,

"Can you talk?"

"Yes. Go ahead."

choosing my words carefully. "I need... guidance. Discreetly. Would you know of a trusted doctor

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