Free Seal of Honor by Dahlia Rose Page A

six months free diapers from the Big K-Mart,” the nurse explained.
    “We are good on diapers. Can you give the gift certificate to one of the less fortunate moms who had a baby in the last few days?” Jordyn asked.
    “I know the perfect young girl. She is only nineteen and she and her mother could use the help,” the nurse said. “Merry Christmas and thank you for your generosity. When you get tired and you want to rest just press the buzzer and we’ll come take her back to the nursery.”
    “I’ll be here for a while, so I’ll take care of her while Mom sleeps,” Zack said.
    The nurse nodded and smiled as she left quietly. He lifted Marianne out in her little stocking and cradled her in his arms.
    “Have I told you today how much I love you and how happy you have made me?” he asked.
    “That’s the first time today, but I’ll let it slide because you were tired,” she teased and Marianne started to fuss. “I love you too, but hand her over because little Miss is hungry.”
    Zack sat close and watched his daughter nurse at Jordyn’s breast and they talked. She was his daughter in every sense of the word. He couldn’t have been prouder of the baby or to be called her father. Later, after they had a hospital Christmas dinner and his wife napped, Zack held the baby and crooned to her gently. “You and your mom are my miracles and, yes, she’ll tell you I’m crazy when I chase boys away but it’s because I love you. And no man will ever be worthy of you in my eyes.” Zack kissed her tiny head and inhaled her baby scent. “Merry Christmas, sweet pea.”
    He stood by the window looking out towards the ocean as the sun set on another Christmas. This was the one that made the mark in his world, the one that set him on the path to love, the path he always dreamed of walking but never got to until now. The baby cooed in his arms and his heart melted all over again. Perfect.
     
    The End