BABY
He arrived home late. The house was already dark and quiet, except for one lamp left on especially for him. Quietly, he made his way into the bedroom. Relena was already asleep, and, after a quick shower, he was finally able to join her.
Thirty minutes later, though it felt more like five, the loud sound of crying broke the silence. Relena groaned and stirred. He felt heavy, as if his body would not obey him if he wanted to move.
'I'm not getting up.' He managed to say somehow.
'It's your turn.' She argued, her voice muffled by the pillow.
'No, it's not.'
'Of course, it is. Last time was when we had that dinner and Duo baby-sat for us.'
'A foolish idea.' Another loud cry cut through their conversation. With a groan, Heero finally got up. 'You know it's not my turn.' He added matter-of-factly before leaving the bedroom.
The corridor was dark, but he found his way with ease. He picked up his daughter and the weeping immediately turned into hiccupping. She stared up at him with her innocent big blue eyes.
Relena came in then, wrapped in her favourite silk robe. 'Is she alright?'
'Apparently, yes.'
'I think…' she smiled, watching her baby's eyes close. 'She misses you. You've been working too much this week.'
'And are you here because you miss me or because you have a guilty conscience?'
'I knew it wasn't your turn.' He placed the baby back in her crib. Now, he hoped, she would sleep until morning. 'You knew it too, so why did you come?'
'Because I love you.' He said simply. 'Both.'
'I love you too.' Relena whispered, hugging him tightly. 'And yes, I have missed you.'
'I have the day off tomorrow.'
'I think you mean today. It's already past midnight.'
'Then this is a perfect way to start.' He pulled her closer and, together, they smiled at their baby.
'It is, isn't it?'