Adam lay in his crib, cold, hungry, and crying. Not long ago, hed been warm and comfortable, but then he entered the world and suddenly, he was completely alone. Every so often, unfamiliar hands would come, switch his nappy for a dry one, and put a bottle teat to his lips.
Once his hunger was satisfied, Adam would fall asleep, only to wake up again cold and wet. After spending a few days in this world, he could already sense that things were not as they should be; something was wrong. He wasn’t supposed to be on his own. Eventually, the little one realised that crying did him no good, so he simply whimpered softly, waiting in silence for those same strange hands.
Emily! Wheres the baby? Emilys neighbour called out when she saw her in the courtyard. Whats it to you! Nowhere I left him at the hospital! I dont want him! Emily shouted back. Are you mad, woman?! her neighbour exclaimed in outrage. Youve left the little one for strangers to care for?
Emily wanted to snap back at her neighbour but changed her mindthis woman had helped her many times before, feeding her, giving her a place to sleep whenever Emilys mother lost her temper and brought home yet another man. She was the only one who hadnt condemned Emily for getting pregnant at such a young age.
Come here! the neighbour insisted, grabbing Emilys hand. I baked a cake for you and bought some milk. And you Whats the point? Ive got no money, Im still at university, how could I ever raise him? Emily muttered in defence.
Whats that got to do with him? Hes in a far worse spot than you! Hes lying there, in a wet nappy, hungry, crying his little heart out, and no one comes near him, the neighbour scolded.
What do you expect from me?! Emily retorted. You suffered all your childhood, never knew a kind touch, and now you want the same for your own child? But I have you, Emily said with a tearful smile. Yes, and that made all the difference. But hes got no one!
Emily began to cry.
Go on then. Bring him home! What have you given birth to? A little boy Then go fetch him! You can both stay with me. Ive got some things left from my son, plenty of clothes for the lad.
Adam stirred, hunger waking him again. The room was still and silent. He wanted to let out a wail, but he knew it was pointless But then he heard an unfamiliar commotion; someone came over to his crib and lifted him gently in their arms.
My little boy, came a voice he somehow recognised. Soon, warm trousers, a fresh nappy, and a snug hat replaced his threadbare things. He was wrapped in a cosy blanket, and cradled in loving armsarms so warm he could sense their comfort even through his clothes.
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Emily arranged some flowers and glanced at the photograph of a smiling woman.
Im sorry, the woman said. You know my younger daughter Anna just had a long labour. But thank heavens, everything turned out well! Theyre home now. Her husbands really looking after her.
Two more visitors appeared at the graveside: Adam and his wife. Hows our grandma doing? he asked with a smile. Resting, and listening Emily replied. Weve come to tell youwere expecting another addition to the family! Adam squeezed his wifes hand.
Thats wonderful! Emily was overjoyed. Do you hear that? Your grandson is finally going to become a dad himself!
They all bid farewell, and made their way home.
