—-~*~—-
CJ was still asleep when the nurse brought Savannah into the room. Following hospital protocols, the nurse checked both John's and CJ's armbands before gently placing the baby in John's arms. "She'll need to be fed soon," the nurse said softly before quietly exiting the room.
Just as the door clicked shut, CJ stirred, her eyes fluttering open. "Good morning," she said with a weak smile, her voice still heavy with sleep. She blinked a few times, her gaze landing on John, who was cradling Savannah in his arms. He looked radiant, his face filled with awe and adoration as he stared down at their daughter.
"Good morning," John whispered, his voice warm as he walked over to the bed. "She's perfect, CJ. Thank you."
"Thank *you," CJ replied, her voice soft as she reached up to kiss him gently on the lips. John carefully handed Savannah to her, his movements tender and deliberate.
"The nurse said she needs to be fed soon," John said, his tone encouraging. "You still want to breastfeed, right?"
"Yes," CJ said, though her smile wavered slightly. "Well, no time like the present, huh?" She laughed nervously, her hands trembling as she adjusted Savannah in her arms. She'd seen Donna breastfeed countless times, but now that it was her turn, she felt a wave of uncertainty. "What if I can't do it? Will I be a bad mother?" Her voice broke, and tears welled up in her eyes, her hormones still in overdrive.
"No, of course not," John said firmly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You'll never know until you try, right? Stop crying, baby. You've got this."
As if on cue, there was a soft knock at the door. "Is it too early?" Donna asked, peeking her head in, a bouquet of flowers in hand.
"No, actually, you're right on time," John said, taking the flowers from her with a grateful smile. "First-time feeding," he added in a hushed tone. "She's feeling a bit nervous."
Donna immediately washed her hands and moved to CJ's side. "Can I?" she asked gently, gesturing toward CJ's gown.
"You've seen worse," CJ chuckled, though her voice was still shaky.
Donna helped CJ unsnap her gown and position Savannah in a football hold. "Try it like this first," Donna instructed, her voice calm and reassuring. "Hold her securely and guide your breast like this." Savannah immediately began mouthing around CJ's breast, her tiny face scrunched in concentration.
"She's hungry," Donna said with a smile. "It might take a minute for her to latch, but we'll keep trying. Until—ah, see? There she goes." Savannah latched on perfectly, her tiny mouth working as she began to feed.
"Just be patient," Donna said, her tone encouraging. "Before you know it, she'll be an expert." She reached into her purse and pulled out a small packet of Lansinoh Lanolin cream. "Massaging, warm towels, or showers will help with milk flow, and use this to help prevent cracking."
"Thank you, Donna," CJ said, her voice thick with emotion as tears streamed down her face. John echoed his gratitude, his eyes shining with appreciation.
"I'm going to give you three some privacy and grab some tea," Donna said, giving CJ's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "I'll be back."
Once Donna left, CJ turned to John. "Have you slept?" she asked, her voice soft.
"Some," John replied, brushing a kiss against her forehead. "But don't worry about me. How are you feeling?"
"Tired, but happy," CJ said, her gaze drifting back to Savannah. "Where are the boys?"
"My mom is bringing them over later this morning," John said, his hand resting gently on CJ's arm. "For now, it's just us." He paused, his eyes softening as he looked at her. "You look beautiful, baby."
CJ's face lit up with a radiant smile, her heart swelling with love and contentment. In that moment, nothing felt more perfect than the three of them together, cocooned in the quiet joy of their new beginning.
—-~*~—-
CJ had dozed back off to sleep after the first feeding, her body still recovering from the intensity of labor and delivery. John, ever the doting father, changed Savannah's diaper and gently placed her back in the bassinet, where she drifted back to sleep. He sat nearby, his eyes fixed on their newborn daughter, his heart swelling with pride and gratitude. Savannah was perfect. Her eyes were a soft gray-blue, just like CJ's, but her dark hair hinted at John's features. Not that it mattered to him—he was just thankful for a healthy baby with ten fingers and ten toes.
As if on cue, Savannah stirred awake just as John's mother and sons arrived. He quickly shushed them, not wanting to wake CJ just yet. "Wash your hands, guys," he reminded them in a hushed tone.
Noel was the first to approach the bassinet, his eyes wide with wonder. "She's so small, Daddy," he whispered, carefully extending a finger toward Savannah. To everyone's surprise, she latched onto his finger with a surprisingly strong grip. "And she's strong!" Noel added, eliciting quiet laughter from the others.
Virginia, standing nearby, dried her hands and reached for a receiving blanket to drape over her shoulder. "May I?" she asked, her voice soft but eager.
"Of course," John said, nodding as his mother carefully picked up Savannah and settled into the lounge chair in the room.
"She's perfect, Johnny," Virginia said, her voice filled with warmth as she cradled the baby. "You two did good."
CJ stirred awake, her initial panic subsiding as soon as she saw her family gathered around. Her eyes immediately sought out Savannah, and she relaxed, a soft smile spreading across her face.
"Congratulations, Mom," Aiden said, stepping forward to hug her first. The others followed suit, each offering their own words of congratulations.
"Thank you," CJ said, her voice still a little groggy. She turned to Ryan. "How was your birthday? I'm sorry you had to share it with—"
"It was okay, CJ," Ryan interrupted, his tone sincere. "If I had to share it with anyone, I'm glad it's my sister."
"Come here, you," CJ said, beckoning him closer. Ryan bent down, and she kissed his cheek. "I love you," she said, pulling him into a tight hug.
"I love you too, Mama," Ryan whispered, his words meant only for her. CJ held his face in her hands, their eyes locking in a moment of quiet understanding before they were interrupted by Stephanie's arrival.
"Well, the whole family's here," Stephanie said with a warm smile as she entered the room. She checked on Savannah first, who was still nestled comfortably in her grandmother's arms, seemingly enjoying being the center of attention. "Can we have the room?" Stephanie asked, glancing at John.
"Yes, of course," John said, turning to the boys. "Guys head to the cafeteria for a while."
"We'll go grab something to eat," Cody suggested, leading the way. Virginia carefully placed Savannah back in the bassinet and started to follow, but CJ stopped her.
"Stay, please," CJ said, her voice soft but insistent. John smiled to himself, grateful that CJ and his mother were forming a bond.
"Is there anything wrong, Stephanie?" John asked, his protective instincts kicking in.
"No, in fact, everything looks great," Stephanie reassured him. "I just need to examine CJ and check her stitches."
As Stephanie began her examination, Savannah started to fuss. John picked her up, gently bouncing her and rubbing her back. "Almost time for her feeding," he noted.
"When Stephanie's done, I'll get her," CJ said, her eyes following John and Savannah as they moved around the room.
"I'm done," Stephanie announced, snapping off her gloves. "You're healing well, CJ. The stitches are dissolvable, so just keep the area clean and dry. If you have any problems, reach out to me. Otherwise, I'll see you in the office in six weeks. But don't worry—I'll come check on you tomorrow before you check out. For today, I want to see you up and walking the halls. I've ordered some pain meds if you need them, and I've also prescribed a stool softener. You'll need to have a bowel movement before you leave."
Stephanie's tone shifted slightly, her expression serious as she added, "Take care of yourself, CJ. You seem to have a lot of help so let them and let the nurses know if you need anything."
"We will," John confirmed, his voice firm. CJ nodded appreciatively, her arms already reaching for Savannah.
John carefully placed the baby in CJ's arms, helping her get settled for the next feeding. "Do you have any questions?" Stephanie asked, her gaze shifting between CJ and John.
"When will she be able to come home?" Virginia asked, her voice hopeful.
"The day after tomorrow," Stephanie replied with a smile. "Rest up and take care of that beautiful baby." She glanced at Savannah, who was already suckling expertly at CJ's breast, before quietly exiting the room.
—-~*~—-
The day had finally arrived for CJ's discharge. John and Cody headed to the hospital to bring her and Savannah home, while Virginia stayed behind to ensure the house was spotless and everything was ready in Savannah's nursery. To make space for the newest member of the family, the boys had to double up. Noel and Aiden already shared a room, so Cody moved in with Ryan—a temporary arrangement that Ryan wasn't thrilled about, but with his graduation just a month away and college starting in mid-August, he didn't put up much of a fuss.
At the hospital, Donna was helping CJ shower for the first time since the delivery. The night before, CJ had been in excruciating pain. When John took her walking around the maternity ward, she felt as though her entire lower body had been hit by a truck. By the time they returned to the room, John had immediately paged the nurse for pain medication. While CJ slept, John proudly filled out Savannah's proof of live birth forms for the vital records department. When CJ woke, the two signed them together before submitting them.
Donna was sympathetic. While she had experienced significant pain after delivering both of her children naturally, CJ's pain seemed to be on another level. Both women were grateful for the shower chair in the bathroom. CJ sat as Donna washed her hair and body, stepping out briefly to allow CJ to carefully clean her private area, being extra cautious around the stitches.
Once finished, Donna helped CJ out of the shower, wrapping her in a towel before guiding her back to the bed. The simple act of showering left CJ utterly exhausted.
With perfect timing, John and Cody arrived just as Donna was towel-drying CJ's hair. "Good morning," John greeted cheerfully, but his expression quickly shifted to concern as he took in his wife's state. "What's happened?"
"Nothing," Donna assured him. "I gave her a shower. The first time's usually a little rough."
"Why didn't you call me? I could've helped," John said, his voice tinged with guilt.
"It's fine, John," CJ said, her tone reassuring. She quickly changed the subject. "Is everything ready at the house?"
"Yes, Mom's on it," John replied. "Also, Bonnie and Ginger called. They said they'll come by later if you feel up to it."
"Sure," CJ said, though the truth was, all she wanted to do was rest. Still, Bonnie and Ginger were some of her closest friends, and she didn't want to turn them away. Donna, however, seemed to sense her exhaustion.
"No," Donna interjected firmly. "I'll call them. CJ just needs to rest today. No visitors beyond family." She included herself in that category without hesitation. CJ looked up at her gratefully, squeezing Donna's hand in silent thanks.
John nodded appreciatively, his relief evident.
As the guys began packing up the room, the nurse brought Savannah back in. After checking the bracelets, she handed over a stack of documents. "Okay, Mom and Dad, here are her discharge papers. If you can confirm the information and sign off, please." Both John and CJ signed the forms and handed them back. In return, the nurse gave them a folder with the hospital logo on the front.
"Inside is an official copy of this form, signed and stamped. You'll receive her birth certificate and Social Security card in the mail in a few weeks. You'll also find some helpful tips for caring for your newborn. Everything looks great right now, but she does need to see the pediatrician in a week. Any questions?"
Both John and CJ shook their heads. With that, the nurse cut off all three of their hospital bands and placed them in a clear bag for them to keep. "You can keep everything in the cart as well. There are numbers in the folder you can call if you have any questions. Nurse Hanson will be in shortly to discharge you, Mom. Congratulations and good luck," the nurse said with a warm smile before leaving the room.
Cody immediately began unpacking the cart. CJ noticed that everyone except him had held the baby, but she tried not to dwell on it. She was just happy he was here.
Savannah began to squirm and fuss, so Donna picked her up, instantly calming the baby. "Okay, you're going to have to show me how to do that," CJ said jokingly.
"Practice," Donna replied with a smile. "This never gets old. Hello, Savannah," she cooed, cradling the baby. "I'm your Auntie Donna."
"These bags are full. I'm gonna take them to the car," Cody offered, grabbing a couple of bags. John tossed him the keys.
"Is he okay?" CJ asked, her voice hinted with concern.
"He's fine," John assured her. "He offered to come this morning to help bring you guys home." He paused, his tone softening. "You are missed, Mrs. Hoynes." His eyes locked with hers, and CJ could see the desire and affection in his gaze. The two shared a soft, intimate kiss, their connection palpable.
Donna smiled in the background, watching the couple with fondness. Clearing her throat, she interjected, "Nothing," she said pointedly. "Nothing for six to eight weeks." Her comment made the couple laugh, breaking the tension and filling the room with warmth.
—-~*~—-
CJ's arrival home was nothing short of welcoming. The living room was filled with flower arrangements and gifts from coworkers and friends, a testament to the love and support surrounding their growing family. The sheer volume of it all was overwhelming, but in the best possible way.
"We'll go through everything in a few days when you feel up to it and send thank you cards," Virginia said, her tone warm and reassuring. "Welcome home."
Everything looked perfect. John handed Savannah's car seat to Virginia, who immediately began unbuckling the baby with practiced ease. Meanwhile, John braced CJ as they made their way upstairs. By the third step, CJ cried out in pain, her face contorting as she gripped the railing. John paused, his concern evident, while the boys watched anxiously from above and below.
Ryan quickly descended the stairs to meet them. "Mama," he said softly, "put your arms around my neck." CJ looked at him, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "Trust me," he added, his voice steady.
"I'll do it, Ry," John offered, but CJ shook her head.
"It's okay, John," CJ said, as he positioned himself around CJ. John nodded, but braced her from the back.
CJ draped her arms around her son's shoulders, and with a careful motion, Ryan bent down, scooping her legs up and carrying her the rest of the way up the stairs. Aiden held the bedroom door open for them, and Ryan gently laid CJ on the bed. She rewarded him with a kiss on the cheek, her gratitude shining in her eyes.
"Thank you," John said earnestly, clapping Ryan on the shoulder as he left the room.
Noel entered shortly after, carrying a glass of water for CJ. "Thank you," she said, taking the glass with a smile. "You guys are really going all out, aren't you?" she chuckled.
"Like I said," John replied, his tone playful but sincere, "you were missed, Mrs. Hoynes."
Virginia walked in, carefully handing Savannah to CJ. "She needs to feed," she said gently.
"If it's okay," CJ began, her voice soft, "I'd like to do this alone."
"Of course," John said, leaning down to kiss her forehead before doing the same for Savannah. "Come on, guys," he added, ushering everyone out of the room.
As the door began to close, CJ reached for Virginia's hand. "Stay, please," she said, her voice quiet but firm.
Virginia smiled, nodding as she stepped back into the room. John closed the door behind them, leaving the two women alone.
Virginia helped CJ adjust the pillows behind her back, then gently lifted her shirt and unsnapped her bra. She laid a receiving blanket over CJ's unused breast, ensuring she was comfortable. Once Savannah latched on, CJ spoke, her voice soft but filled with emotion.
"I want to thank you for everything you've done for me," CJ said, her eyes meeting Virginia's. "I know we started off rocky," she added with a small smile, "but you've been a source of comfort to me. I wanted you to know how much I appreciate it."
Virginia's expression softened, and she reached out to gently squeeze CJ's hand. "Us starting off on rocky terms, as you put it, was not your fault," Virginia said, her voice warm but tinged with regret. "I apologized to John, but not to you, my dear. I'm sorry for how I came across. I only want what's best for all of my children and grandchildren. I misjudged a lot," she admitted, her smile soft and sincere. "Even in old age, we can make mistakes. Shall we try again?"
"I would love that," CJ said, her smile widening with relief and gratitude.
Their moment was interrupted as Savannah pulled away, still hungry. CJ adjusted her position, switching sides as Virginia helped with the receiving blanket. "I don't have a lot of milk yet," CJ said, her voice tinged with worry. "And she seems to be ravenous."
"As she grows, you'll produce more to keep up with her demand," Virginia reassured her. "Drink more water, eat healthy, nutritious meals, and snack often. You need to make sure you're taking in enough calories for both you and the baby."
"Did you breastfeed?" CJ asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Yes, with both boys," Virginia replied, her tone nostalgic. "A year with David. Eight months with John. His teeth were killer," she added, making them both laugh.
The two women sat in companionable silence, their conversation flowing easily until Savannah pulled away, finally satisfied. Virginia gently laid the baby down on the bed while helping CJ redress. CJ's eyes betrayed her exhaustion, and Virginia could see how much she needed rest.
As Virginia picked up Savannah to place her in the crib, CJ asked, "How long are you staying?"
"As long as I'm needed," Virginia replied, her voice firm but gentle. "Rest now."
CJ pulled a blanket over herself, her eyelids heavy. Sleep came quickly, her body finally surrendering to the exhaustion of the day.
—-~*~—-