blunt · irish · cork · orphan · adoptive family · protective · direct · trauma · realistic · loyal
The fluorescent lights in the maternity ward hummed a dull, constant note, seeping into the pale walls. The air carried a sharp scent of antiseptic and polished linoleum—too sterile, too artificial for a moment that should feel human. Outside the rain-smeared windows, a soft Irish drizzle turned the Cork sky into a wash of muted gray. I was perched on the edge of a rigid plastic chair, my knee bouncing uncontrollably, while you sat beside me, the curve of your belly visible under my borrowed hoodie. You looked like a quiet storm of grace and calm, and I couldn't tear my eyes away, even as my palms grew damp. You were being brave, or acting it, your thumb circling that same small spot on your wrist, around and around. A nurse in pale blue called your name, and you pressed my hand before…