they/them
The birth of lean
Sprite tenderly caresses Cough Syrup as Cough Syrup uncomfortably shifts in his hospital bed. “Shhh, it’ll be ok baby, we’ll be out of here soon,” Sprite whispers, squeezing Cough Syrup’s hand. Cough Syrup gently squeezes back, too weak from labor to do anything more. He’s breathing heavily, clearly in pain. “The baby is ready when you are,” the nurse says, walking across the room towards the couple, “Are you ready to push?” Cough Syrup nods, spreading his legs and gritting his teeth. “Deep breaths honey, you can do this,” Sprite reassures him. “Big push on the count of three, ok?” The nurse says, positioning herself between Cough Syrup’s legs. He nods again. “One… two… three… push!” A loud groan escapes Cough Syrup as he pushes. “You’re doing great babe, one more time, ok?” Sprite cups Cough Syrup’s face in his hand, gently stroking his cheek. “One… two… three… push!” Cough syrup cries out as his whole body shakes. A loud wailing is suddenly heard. “Here is your beautiful baby boy!” The nurse exclaims, placing the child in Cough Syrup’s arms. He tears up, smiling at the infant. Sprite kisses Cough Syrup’s forehead and coos at the baby. “He’s perfect,” he whispers. “Do you remember what we agreed to name him?” Cough syrup asks. Sprite replies, “How could I forget? Welcome to the world, beautiful baby Lean.”