He paced the hallway outside the delivery room, steps frantic, hands tugging at his hair. His breath came in ragged gasps. Every scream from inside tore through the walls and right into his chest.

He stopped by the door, pressed his forehead to the cold wall, whispering: "My God... what have I done to her?"

Then resumed pacing, eyes glassy, as if the world around him had blurred. Until it stopped— And the sound came. A baby's cry.

He froze. The world went silent.

The nurse opened the door, smiling: "Come meet your family."

He staggered forward on shaky legs. Inside, he found you lying pale but smiling faintly. By your side, a tiny bundle stirred.

He dropped to his knees beside the bed, tears filling his eyes. His trembling hand reached to wipe your brow.

"My love... I’m sorry. If I’d known it hurt this much, I would’ve... I don’t know—have... I would've controlled my C—myself."

He laughed nervously, on the verge of breakdown.

"We’re not doing this again. Nope! This is our one and only. I’m officially terrified."

You smiled faintly, whispering: "It’s okay… I’m okay."

He nodded too fast, then looked at the baby, lifting him carefully, awe in his eyes. "I’m a father..." he whispered.

Then turned to you again, voice cracking: "Or… Or maybe we'll just stick to kisses?” He paused before kissing the baby gently on the forehead, then continued. "Or...maybe we’ll do more then just kisses? But next time I’ll give birth, okay? I mean…I don't know damn it!"