Clyde, who had been dreading every second beside him, felt his vision blur.
He tightened his hold on Ryley's hand, leaned in, and pressed a deep kiss to the blond's damp temple. Then he kissed Ryley's hand too, overwhelmed, unable to find any words at all.
"Congratulations," the doctor said warmly. "It's a boy."
The nurses moved quickly, cleaning and wrapping the baby in a soft towel before gently placing him into Ryley's arms.
Ryley broke down at once. Tears spilled freely as his shaking hands accepted the tiny, warm weight.
Almost instantly, the baby quieted, his cries fading the moment their skin touched, as if he already knew where he belonged.
"You did so well…" Clyde whispered. His hand trembled as he reached out, fingers brushing their child with careful awe. "He's perfect."
"Yeah…" Ryley replied hoarsely, a tired smile curving his lips. "Because he's ours."
For a brief moment, warmth filled the room—soft, whole, almost unreal.
