Quickly slipping out from under the child, he turned over to the side and coughed. Hand covering his mouth to muffle his noise, his body shook and convulsed as he tried to catch his breath. After a moment, he finally pulled his hand away and wiped the blood with the handkerchief. Lying still on his side, he breathed and blinked slowly. Small arms wrapped over him and warm small body pressed against his back. He could hear and feel the soft snore against his skin.
He closed his eyes and memorized the beating of his lover's heartbeat, memorized the feel of arms around him, memorized the sound of his wife's breathing. Slowly turning, he made sure to keep the small arms around him. Pressing a kiss to smooth forehead, he closed his eyes and waited until the sun rose, bringing them closer to the final chapter.
==
