Karim al-Zib - Wild in the country book four

"I know, baby," he returned in the same velvety intonation. "I was in an important high-level meeting and my secretary was blocking all calls. I'm so sorry."

The girl sniffed and kissed him. "But you're here now, and that's all that matters."

"You know something, darling?" Mark said. "I feel a powerful urge to make love to you right now."

She laughed weakly. "I think we should wait at least until after dinner."

Mark chuckled, and then turned as the door opened. Hemmings was standing there cradling a bundle of white fabric. He came over and gave it into DesirЋe's eager, open arms. Tears of joy were streaking his face and Mark looked up.

"Thank you, Doctor," the young father said. "Thanks for everything."

DesirЋe moved the blanket from the baby's face and sobbed. "Oh, baby, look!"

Mark moved the folds aside and looked down at the tiny body. "It's a girl!"

The young mother cried, "Oh, yes, Mark, and she's got your eyes!" She pressed her cheek to the baby's face and began to sing.

A slight look of puzzlement on his face, Mark looked up at the doctor and met his cryptic gaze. From the scans Hemmings had told them to expect a boy, but then he supposed those things, like politics and love and a great many other things, were not completely reliable.

Nothing's perfect, he thought, and turned back to his wife and child, his happy family.