Jake moved to the bassinet, lifting their newborn with trembling hands. The baby blinked up at him, utterly unbothered by the storm that had raged around them. Jake’s shoulders shook as he held the tiny body close, overwhelmed with relief at being trusted and reunited with the family he cherished.
Sandra reached out, brushing his arm gently. “I’m sorry I doubted you,” she whispered, her voice cracking. Jake shook his head, tears in his eyes, insisting she had every reason to be afraid. They leaned together, foreheads touching, letting the shared fear dissolve into something gentler, stronger, more honest.