Chapter 29

29

Rhett

I rock my daughter as my wife sleeps peacefully. Elena Rose came into the world, four and a half pounds of little girl perfection. She was born three weeks ago and was utterly perfect. Since she was six weeks early, they did keep her for a week to make sure she was doing well.

Thankfully our girl is strong and surpassed everyone's expectations. I gaze down at Elena's tiny face, still in awe of her perfect features. Her rosebud lips, button nose, and long eyelashes that flutter as she dreams. She has Sofia's blue eyes and a dusting of dark hair that I'm sure will curl like mine.

"You are so loved, little one," I whisper, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Daddy's got you."

Elena makes a soft cooing sound in her sleep, her tiny hand gripping my finger. My heart swells with an overwhelming love I never knew was possible before she came into our lives.

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of emotions—the fear and uncertainty when Sofia went into early labor, the breathtaking moment Elena was born, the anxiety of having her in the NICU. But now we're home and settling into our new life as a family of three.

Sofia stirs in the bed, blinking awake slowly. "Hey," she says softly, smiling at the sight of Elena and me.

"Hey, yourself," I reply, moving to sit on the edge of the bed. "How are you feeling?"

"Tired, but good," Sofia replies, reaching out to stroke Elena's cheek. "How long was I asleep?"

"A couple hours," I tell her. "This little miss and I have been having some quality daddy-daughter time."

Sofia's eyes fill with happy tears as she watches us. "You're such a natural with her. I love seeing you two together."

I lean down to kiss Sofia gently. "And I love seeing you with her. You're an amazing mom already."

We sit in comfortable silence for a while, both of us just marveling at our daughter. It's hard to believe how much our lives have changed in less than a year. From that first chance meeting during the fire to now being married with a baby—it's been a whirlwind—but I wouldn't change a thing.

"What are you thinking about?" Sofia asks, noticing my contemplative expression.

I smile, shifting Elena so I can take Sofia's hand. "Just how lucky I am. How perfect our little family is."

Sofia squeezes my hand. "I feel the same way. I love you both so much."

"We love you too," I murmur, leaning in for another kiss.

As if on cue, Elena starts to fuss, clearly ready for her next meal. I carefully pass her to Sofia, who gets her settled to nurse.

"I'll go warm up some of that lasagna your mom brought over," I say, standing up. "You need to keep your strength up, Mama."

Sofia nods gratefully. "Thanks, babe. That sounds perfect."

I head to the kitchen, my heart full of love for my girls.

Today is my first day back at work since Elena's birth. My sister is in town to meet Sofia and the baby so she's spending the night with my girls tonight to help with her niece. I'm grateful for all the support we've received.

Walking into the station I see pink balloons and streamers with a big sign that says, Welcome Back, Dad. My brothers all greet me, and we share back-slapping hugs. I pull out my phone, sharing pictures of both of my girls.

"You lucky fuck, a beautiful wife, and a beautiful baby." Atta gives me a playful shove. "Congratulations, man." He slaps me on the back and then I greet the rest of my brothers. Fuck, these guys are the best men I know, and have done so much for us.

I smile as I show off more pictures of Elena and Sofia to my brothers. Their enthusiasm and genuine happiness for me warms my heart. These guys have become like family over the years.

"All right boys, let Hollywood put his stuff away and then we can properly celebrate his return," Cap urges, clapping me on the shoulder.

I head to my locker to stow my gear. As I open it, I see the ultrasound photo of Elena still taped inside. Next to it is a new photo, one of Elena sleeping peacefully in my arms. Sofia must have snuck it in there last night. The sight brings a lump to my throat.

After getting settled, I rejoin the guys. They've set up cake and coffee in the common area. We spend the next hour sharing stories and laughing. I fill them in on life with a newborn—the sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and indescribable joy.

"So how's Sofia doing?" Marchy asks.

"She's amazing," I say, unable to keep the pride from my voice. "She's taken to motherhood so naturally. I don't know how she does it all."

The guys nod approvingly. "You got a good one there, Hollywood," Atta says.

"Don't I know it," I agree.

As we're cleaning up, the alarm sounds. Just like that, it's back to business as usual. As we rush to gear up and head out, I feel a familiar mix of adrenaline and purpose. But now there's something else too—an awareness of what's waiting for me at home. My family. My whole world.

I say a silent prayer as we climb into the truck. Keep me safe so I can go home to my girls. As we race toward the emergency, lights flashing and sirens blaring, I'm more determined than ever to help others and make it home safely. For Sofia. For Elena. For our future together.

The call squawks throughout the building and over my radio. "Engine 42, Battalion 3. Respond to a vehicle fire at Trident Mall's food festival. Reports state vehicle exploded. Cross streets Rincon and Shea North parking lot. Time out 1240." I listen as the call comes over the radio, but it's not us yet, but I speak too soon and then it's go time. "Engine 47, Medic 45. Respond to the food festival at Trident Mall. Time out 1242." And there it is. The second alarm.

I hope you enjoyed Rhett and Sofia

Next up is Hayes