Chapter 69

Shannon sat in bed holding her baby. Charlie says "How is everything?"
Shannon says "For such a small thing he has made me very sore and tired."
Charlie says "But everything's good?"
Shannon says "Everything's perfect. He's perfect."
Charlie says "The nurse says there were more tests?"
Shannon says "Yes, and if you had come to any of the classes you would know what they were."
Louisa says "When can we take him home?"
Shannon says "A few hours. I've got a few tests of my own before I'm allowed out."
Charlie says "What tests?"
Shannon says "Again, you'd know if you'd been to the classes."
Charlie says "I'm sorry. I had my reasons."
Shannon says "I know."
Shannon shuffles and winces. Charlie says "You ok?"
Shannon says "Hold him while I get comfy."
Charlie says "I can't."
Shannon says "Stop being a chicken and hold your brother."
Shannon passes the baby to Charlie and gets herself comfortable. Louisa says "Millie is desparate to see him. Are you up to visitors?"
Shannon says "Sure."
Louisa goes to the door and opens it. Mickey walks in followed by Winnie, Robbie, Yvette and Leigh. Mickey says "That's a good look for you."
Winnie says "He's beautiful. Have you decided on a name?"
Shannon says "Charlie."
Charlie says "Did I do something wrong? Do you want him back?"
Shannon says "No, you're doing fine. That's his name."
Louisa says "What is?"
Shannon says "Charlie Lucas Robinson."
Winnie says "Charlotte, isn't that lovely?"
Charlie says "Why?"
Shannon says "I don't owe you an explaination, he's my son. Don't you have other things to deal with?" Charlie looks at Leigh. "Give him to your sister and go."
Charlie passes the baby to Louisa and leads Leigh out of the room. Louisa says "Why isn't he named after me?"
Mickey says "Because the baby's cute."