NEONATE

LIFE goes on. Greg, Gavin and Naomi are back at work. It's been three months since Shannel's death. They are still grieving but they are on their best demeanor at work. At home, silence reigns. Gavin and Naomi have brought more of their belongings to the family house. They had initially intended a short stay subsequent to Henry's death, they hadn't expected that Shannel would also pass away. It's not reasonable that they leave only Greg in the house, hence, they moved in — fully.

Gavin has been totally solitary. He no longer converses with anybody, including Naomi. He segregates himself from everybody. When Naomi endeavours to chat to him, his expressions are bland. They now appear more like roommates than partners. Gavin is so bereaved that he doesn't interact with anybody unless it is necessary. He's still convinced his ill luck dissolved his family through his marriage.

"My expected date of delivery is next week." Naomi announces as she sits beside Gavin on the bed.

"What day of the week?" Gavin responds.

"Probably Tuesday."

"I will request to take that day off. I will drive you to the hospital."

"Aren't you excited?"

"I pray you have a safe delivery."

"You are stalling. I'm having your child. There's not the slightest smile on your face. We both agreed to get pregnant, I suppose."

"Who will take care of this forthcoming child? Look around you, Naomi. Everyone's dead."

"Gavin, you have to start counting your blessings. Everything happens for a reason. You can't be alive and be living like you are dead. You don't even look at me anymore. In my antenatal appointments, pregnant women are advised to engage in plenty of sexual intercourse as it might ease delivery on the due date. When my hormones swing, I get emotional but you don't even care. We've not had a proper conversation in months. We are lovers, not roommates. It's not fair that you are shutting me out. For better, for worse, remember?"

"I told you I will take that day off. What's left to do?"

"I didn't marry you to be treated like a liability, Gavin. I don't deserve these. It's not easy for me either but I try. I put in efforts. You are just too disinterested to acknowledge my assays."

"Naomi, good night." Gavin turns his back.

Naomi nods her head. She is getting accustomed to Gavin's new habit — unaccountability. It seems even her breathing disturbs him. She feels very lonely when with him.

On Tuesday, Gavin drives Naomi to the hospital.

"Daddy." Naomi smiles. "Are you ready to be called daddy?"

"Maybe she will be like Gem or my mum." Gavin responds.

"For sure." Naomi nods.

"Congratulations! Father of daughter." The doctor announces to Gavin, whom has been restless.

"My goodness. Thank heavens. Is my wife okay?"

"Both mother and daughter are fine. Although, your wife needs a lot of rest."

"Thank you, doctor. I will ensure I help her with necessaries. May I check on her and my baby now?"

"Yes, please. Have a nice day."

"Hello, Naams." Gavin enters the ward.

"Hi, daddy." Naomi displays a faint smile. "Look at her over here." Naomi points to the cot placed by her bedside. "Ultrasound scan told no lie about her sex."

Gavin moves closer to the cot. "She's so beautiful." He lifts her to his chest. "Do you feel any pain, Naams?"

"Not exactly. My body feels stiff. They say it will wear off after some weeks."

"Sorry. Greg is on his way here."

"Uncle Greg." Naomi chuckles.

Gavin grins. "I wish Gem and my parents were here right now. There would be ecstasy in the air literally." Gavin sulks.

"They are watching over us. I know they are smiling down at us right now. They will take care of us." Naomi persuades.