ELENA
Nicholas was in the family waiting area outside the NICU with a coffee he hadn't touched.
He stood when he saw me.
"You didn't have to come back. I know you're busy with work." I said.
"I know."
We went in together.
**
The nurse smiled when she saw us.
"Perfect timing. She's been awake for an hour and very opinionated about it."
I looked at Nikola through the incubator glass.
Awake. Hands moving — the long fingers opening and closing.
Her face had a great deal to say and I am sure she's going to be like her father who didn't have to say a work to express her feelings.
"Is she ready to be held?" I said.
"She's been ready. We were waiting for you."
The nurse helped me into the chair and placed Nikola in my arms.
I looked at my daughter for the first time without glass
