By the time it was time for labor, they could barely contain their excitement.
Vanessa started crying as soon as she saw the baby. Then Ethan gently took his daughter into his arms.
For a few seconds, he just stood there looking at her. I expected him to smile.
But instead… all the color drained from his face. “Ethan?” He didn’t answer.
“What’s wrong?” He swallowed hard. Then he said, “I’m sorry, Claire, but…
I CAN’T TAKE THIS BABY HOME.” I thought I had misheard. “What?” My voice trembled.
“Ethan, she’s your daughter. What are you talking about?” He looked at Vanessa, then back at me.
“I’m sorry.” His face tightened. “But I have to give up the baby. I’m not taking her home.”
And before either of us could process what was happening, he placed the newborn back into my arms.
Vanessa stared at him with tears in her eyes. “WHY?” Her voice cracked.
