Keeping Lily (Disciples 1)

I jerk awake just as Matthew is lifting David away from my breast.

“Get some rest. I’ll take care of him,” he says softly.

I’m so tired all I can do is murmur my thanks, sinking down into the bed.

When I awake, the room is quiet, too quiet. Sitting up straight, I search for David or Matthew only to find Mary seated in the chair beside my bed.

“Good morning, dearie,” she greets me. In her arms she holds David, swaddled up tightly in his blue blanket.

I start to relax. Over the past few months, I’ve come to trust her. She’s picked up most of my slack with the children as I’ve grown bigger and less mobile. She’s been absolutely amazing with them.

“Where’s Matthew?” I ask, reaching for the little remote thing that will change the position of my mattress.

“Oh, he’s off speaking to the hospital administration.”

“Oh?”

She nods her head sharply. “Yes. He is not pleased. He wants you and little David discharged immediately.”

“What? Why?” I ask in surprise as I finally find the remote and push the button that changes my position.

“The nurses keep sneaking in. He caught one of them taking a selfie with David without his permission.”

My eyes widen and she nods her head knowingly. “They did the same when Matthew was born.”

Rising from her chair, she walks over to the bed and offers David to me. I gratefully accept him and hug him to my chest.

“All the nurses and women went gaga over him. His father was the same, not at all pleased by the attention.”

Gazing down at David, I admire his tiny little face. He is stunning with his soft, blonde hair and bright blue eyes. I feel that same pull, that same weakness I feel for his father.

Already I am so in love, there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for him.

“He’s destined to be a killer just like his dear old dad,” Mary says warmly.

My head jerks up and I blink at her. “Sorry? What did you say?”

Did I hear that right?

Mary frowns at me. “I said he’s destined to be a lady killer just like his dear old dad. With that face, there will be few who will be able to resist him.”

“Oh,” I say. “I’m sorry, I must have misheard you.”

Mary’s frown turns into a smile and she pats my hand. “It’s okay, dear. You’ve had a long day.”

I smile at her, but still, I can’t help but feel like I heard her correctly the first time…

The End