And then it all seemed to go quiet.

Chapter Twenty

Aisha

Suddenly the monitor beside me bleeped rhythmically and relief spread across the faces of the medical staff. A doctor called for everyone bar one nurse to clear the room and Jason appeared by my side, stroking my head. ‘What happened?’ he asked the nurse.

‘Baby’s heart rate slowed right down,’ she said, not taking her eyes off the monitor, ‘but it’s all fine now, back up and beating as it should.’

I swallowed hard. That sounded serious. The pain of that last contraction had been unbearable. Did I do something wrong?

The nurse moved around to my other side now. ‘Right Aisha, you’re ready to push. On the next contraction okay, let’s do this so you can meet your baby!’

It all happened so quickly. Just three strong pushes and then the sound of crying – high-pitched, weak, but a cry nonetheless – burst into the room. Sweat was dripping down my forehead and I gave a huge sigh of relief. Our baby was here – the bean was safe. Jason cut the cord.

‘Well done, dear,’ a kindly voice said, and I wasn’t sure whether the comment was directed at him or me. ‘Would you like to tell her the sex?’

A moment later, Jason’s head was close to mine, his top was off and he was holding a baby against his chest. His hands were trembling and tears ran down his cheeks. It was a slightly blue, blood-stained baby with white bits all over it, but it came from my body and it was amazing.

‘It’s a girl! You were right. We got our girl!’ he choked, as the tears fell thick and fast, setting me off too. A nurse came and helped him lay her across my chest. She was warm and slippery. And so tiny. I struggled to look down and take her all in. My hands were trembling too now. She had the sweetest little profile and dark hair, wet like a duckling. Her arms were held up, her hands almost clasped together in front of her face. I gently teased my index finger into her hand and her miniature fingers curled around mine. She was a miracle! I was overwhelmed with love and pride.

‘She’s beautiful,’ I whispered, barely able to get the words out. My hands were shaking as I wrapped them around her tiny body. ‘She’s our Joni.’ The name had been on our ‘favourites’ list for a while, a version of Joanne, which was the name of my late mum. It also meant God is gracious. And someone up there had been more than kind in granting us this bundle of perfection.

Jason wrapped his arms around us both. ‘I’m so proud of you, Aisha,’ he choked, kissing my forehead. ‘You are incredible. And hello little bean,’ he whispered, tears rolling down his cheeks. ‘Or rather, Joni. I’m going to be the best father I can be. I love you both so much.’