the soft murmur of voices outside the bedroom door was faint, signaling that caitlyn was no longer alone. the world outside seemed distant, as if the estate had paused just for this moment. you had been waiting—waiting for the doctors to give the green light, for caitlyn to feel ready, and for this moment to finally arrive.

the last few days had been a blur, filled with instructions, hushed conversations, and visits from medical staff. they had cautioned restraint, reminding you that caitlyn needed rest and it wasn’t time to hold the child yet. but now, something had shifted.

the door creaked open and you stepped inside, adjusting to the dim room. caitlyn was propped up against the pillows, her eyes tired but filled with a quiet joy. nestled against her chest was a tiny, sleeping bundle—her daughter, swaddled securely, resting peacefully against caitlyn’s heart.

caitlyn’s gaze met yours as she sensed your presence, a soft smile tugging at her lips. her hand gently rested over the baby, but it was clear that she didn’t need to speak. her eyes said it all.

“come meet your daughter,” caitlyn’s voice was soft, carrying the weight of everything that had passed—of this new life between you both. her tone was calm and inviting, offering reassurance.

she shifted slightly, making sure you had a clear view, and the warmth in the room seemed to wrap around you. it was intimate, this moment, as caitlyn waited for you to approach, to join her in this new chapter. the doctors had given permission, and now, in this space, the world felt small, the distance between you and your new family melting away.