The Delivery Room
Nurse Karen Matthews rushed into the delivery room, her heart pounding with anticipation. As she entered, she saw the young, scared face of Sharon Smith, barely a teenager, in the throes of labor.
Sharon's eyes were wide with fear as she grappled with the intensity of giving birth to not one but three babies. However, what Sharon didn’t know was that she was in good hands.
Immense Challenges
Karen's years of experience told her that this was not just any ordinary delivery – it was a moment that would change lives forever.
With each cry of pain from Sharon, Karen felt a surge of empathy, knowing the immense challenges that lay ahead for the young mother. It was something she knew all too well.
Triplets
The room buzzed with activity as medical staff rushed to assist in the delivery of the triplets. Despite the chaos, Karen's attention remained firmly fixed on Sharon, who seemed overwhelmed and lost in the chaos of childbirth.
As the first baby emerged into the world, Karen saw the mixture of relief and exhaustion on Sharon's face.
Sad
But as the second and third babies followed, Sharon's expression turned from relief to sheer panic. Karen immediately sprang into action. She was going to help this young girl no matter what.
When all three babies were born, Karen looked at the young girl. She only had sadness in her eyes. And over the next few days, sadness was all Karen saw.
Overwhelming
Every time Karen visited the maternity ward, Sharon was nursing her newborns with a look of worry on her face. Karen could understand. It wasn’t easy being a teen mom.
She helped the young girl as much as she could by putting one baby down so that she could feed another. It was all very overwhelming for someone so young.
Something Wrong
She tried to bring as much cheer to Sharon and her babies as she could. “Have you decided on names for them yet?” she asked, hoping that by now, Sharon had decided on naming her three daughters.
However, when Sharon didn’t reply to her, Karen knew that something was wrong. It was like Sharon had sunk into a deep depression.
No Bond
In all her years of being a nurse, Karen had seen it all. There were mothers who instantaneously took to their new babies and felt a love for them like they had never felt before.
But then there were some mothers who just didn’t bond with their babies immediately. This could be linked to postnatal depression.
Crying
Could this be what Sharon was struggling with? Whenever a nurse brought her babies to her, she didn’t seem interested in holding them or feeding them at all.
Karen watched as she just lay in the hospital bed. She even saw her shed some tears more than a few times. Karen felt so sorry for her and wondered if she could possibly help.
No Visitors
Another thing that Karen noticed was that ever since the triplets had been born, absolutely no one had come to see either of them. It was a very sad reality.
Could this be why Sharon was so sad? Karen needed to find out what was going on with her and why no one had come to visit her and her precious babies.
Talking To Her
One night, when everything was quiet in the ward, Karen saw that Sharon was watching TV. She saw this as the perfect opportunity to strike up a conversation with the young girl.
Karen cautiously approached the vulnerable girl. “Hi Sharon, how are you feeling? Do you mind if I sit down?” Sharon just gave her one look. She didn’t look pleased.
A Few Questions
She pulled the hospital blankets over her as a way to guard herself. Karen could see that this young girl was definitely going through something.
“I just want to ask you a few questions. Why has no one come to visit you or your babies? I know you’re 14 years old. Where’s your parents and the father of your babies?”
Tears
A single tear rolled down the girl’s cheek. Karen knew that she was onto something. She handed the girl a tissue, and the two of them sat in silence for a long time.
It didn’t seem like the girl was going to open up any time soon. Karen left her for now, but she would be back the next night to try to talk to her again.
A Chance?
However, the following night was the same. Sharon was still in her shell and did not come out. Karen found it frustrating, but she decided to be patient with the girl.
Every day, she would check on her and the triplets. Then, one day, out of nowhere, the girl gave Karen a small smile. Was this the chance she had been hoping for?
Optimism
Karen's heart skipped a beat as she saw the glimmer of a smile on Sharon's face. It was the first sign of hope she had seen since the birth of the triplets. With cautious optimism, she approached Sharon's bedside, her mind racing with possibilities.
"Sharon, it's good to see you smile," Karen said gently, taking a seat beside her. "Is there anything you'd like to talk about?"
Trying To Help
Karen had hoped that the worst of the trauma of childbirth had begun to wear off, but in that moment, she watched as Sharon’s demeanor changed. The slight smile vanished from the young girl’s face. It was like Karen had snapped her out of a happy daydream. The girl’s face twisted into an emotion Karen had never seen before.
At first, Sharon didn’t say a word, but Karen could see the tears welling up behind her eyes. Something was terribly wrong. The girl was hiding something. But then, the girl said something truly heartbreaking.
The Conversation
Sharon’s eyes trailed from the woman who was trying to help her. It was clear that she didn’t want to have this conversation, but Karen was determined. “You should go,” The young girl said just above a whisper, but Karen couldn’t do that. If she walked out of that room, she would feel like she was giving up on her.
But when Karen refused to leave her hospital room, Sharon said the unthinkable. “You can stop acting like you care just to make you feel better about yourself,” she said, but the situation would get worse.
A Helpful Nurse
Sharon stirred as Karen gently adjusted her blanket. "I want to help you, sweetheart?" Karen said, her voice soft and soothing. "I'm scared," Sharon admitted, her voice trembling. "I don't know how I'm going to do this... I don't have anyone."
Karen squeezed Sharon's hand reassuringly. "You’re not alone. I’m here, and I’ll help you through this, one step at a time." But she wasn’t sure how.
The Extra Mile
The night passed slowly, and just after midnight, as Karen sat by Sharon’s bedside, she heard a faint rustling outside the door. Frowning, she stood up and quietly made her way to the hallway. It was way past visiting hours and nobody was allowed into the ward.
The flickering fluorescent lights cast eerie shadows along the corridor, and Karen’s pulse quickened when she spotted a figure standing near Sharon’s door.
A Dark Visitor
That night, as the hospital grew quiet and Sharon finally drifted off to sleep, Karen sat by her side, making sure everything was alright. The sound of soft footsteps in the hallway caught her attention. She looked up to see a shadowy figure standing just outside the door.
The figure was tall, wearing a hoodie that obscured his face. Something about the way he stood there, silently watching Sharon, sent a chill down Karen’s spine.
A Stranger In The Night
A man in a hoodie, his face obscured by shadows, was staring intently at the sleeping girl through the small window in the door. He didn’t notice Karen sitting in the dark in the corner. But she noticed him immediately.
Something about his presence made her feel uncomfortable. She took a step forward, her voice firm but low. “Can I help you?”
He Doesn’t Speak
The man was startled and backed out of the doorway. He adjusted his hoodie so the light wouldn’t hit his face.
“Excuse me, can I help you?” Karen called out, standing up. The figure didn’t respond. The man turned his head slightly, enough for Karen to catch a glimpse of his eyes—cold and calculating. Would he talk to the nurse?
Who Is He
Instead, he turned and bolted down the hallway, disappearing into the darkness. Karen’s heart raced as she rushed to the doorway, but he was too fast for her.
Without a word, he turned and sprinted down the hallway. He ran straight outside without looking back. Karen’s instincts kicked in, and she followed him, but by the time she reached the end of the corridor, he had vanished into the night.
Safe And Sound
Breathless and shaken, Karen returned to Sharon’s room. The girl was still asleep, oblivious to what had just happened. Karen hesitated, unsure whether to wake her, but decided she needed to know. It could have been worse.
She gently shook Sharon’s shoulder, rousing her from sleep. But the girl was fast asleep. She decided not to disturb her and wait until morning.
Telling Her
The next morning, as Sharon slowly woke up, Karen sat by her bed. "Sharon, there was someone here last night, watching you," she said carefully. "He ran off when I tried to approach him."
Sharon’s eyes widened in fear, her hands instinctively covering her swollen belly. “Did you see his face?” she asked, her voice trembling. “No,” Karen replied, “but I think you might know who it was.” She wondered if the teenager would shed some light on the situation.
I Know Who It Is
Sharon’s eyes widened in shock, but there was a flicker of recognition. “I think I know who it was,” she whispered, her voice laced with fear. “It’s... it’s my ex, the father of the babies.”
Karen frowned. “Do you think he’s dangerous?” She started cleaning up Sharons’ room and checking that the windows were locked. “Sharon,” Karen whispered urgently. “The man outside your room. He was watching you, but I didn’t call the police last night, I thought you’d know what to do.”
He Came Back
Sharon nodded slowly, her expression a mixture of fear and resignation. “I do. It’s Kevin. He’s the father… but he’s dangerous, Karen. He was never good to me. I don’t want him near me or the babies.”
The kind nurse nodded in agreement. It wasn’t the first time she had to help a teenager with their baby daddy issues. Karen’s heart ached for Sharon, but she knew they couldn’t dwell on the fear. “Don’t worry. He won’t come near you again. We’ll make sure of that.”
How Did He Find Me
The young girl started crying. Karen didn’t know how else to comfort her. “Do you think he’s going to come back today?” she asked.
Sharon hesitated before shaking her head. “No... I don’t think so. He was always more scared than anything else. But why would he come here now?” “I don’t know, but if you see him again or feel unsafe, you need to let me know,” Karen said firmly. “We’ll make sure you’re protected.”
The Last Time
Days passed, and the mysterious man in the hoodie never returned. Sharon grew more at ease, focusing on her health and the birth of her daughters.
Karen was by her side through every ultrasound, every late-night worry, and every doubt that crept into Sharon’s mind. She became more than a nurse; she became a friend and a guardian angel. She was determined to help the poor girl recover.
A Place To Go
One evening, as Sharon rested, Karen brought up a sensitive topic. “Sharon, have you thought about reaching out to your mother? I know things are difficult between you two, but maybe she could offer some support.”
Sharon looked down, tears welling in her eyes. “I don’t think she’ll ever forgive me, Karen. She told me I was a disgrace to the family.” The tired teenager told her how her mother had disowned her when she fell pregnant. But Karen had seen it all before and knew what to do.
You’re Family
Karen tried to motivate the girl to be strong and to gain the support of her mother. But Sharon wasn’t in the mood to listen. “People say things they don’t mean when they’re hurt,” Karen said gently. “But a mother’s love is strong. She might be more willing to reconcile than you think.”
Sharon hesitated, then nodded. “I’ll think about it.” But she had no intention of reaching out to her mother at all.
Time To Go
As the days turned into weeks, Sharon began to recover and the babies were strong enough to be discharged. It was long and gruelling, but Karen was there every step of the way, holding her hand and encouraging her.
Finally, Sharon’s three daughters—Serena, Samiya, and Shayna were strong enough. They were small but healthy, and Sharon felt a deep, overwhelming love for them.
Ask Mum
Sharon was set to be discharged the next day, but she didn’t have any place to go. She didn’t want to move back in with her mother. But Karen was forcing her.
“Thank you,” Sharon whispered to Karen as she cradled her newborns. “I don’t know what I would’ve done without you.” Karen smiled warmly, brushing a strand of hair from Sharon’s face. “You’re stronger than you know, Sharon. You’ve done an incredible job.”
Going Home
A few hours later, Karen helped Sharon make the phone call to her mother. Amanda was upset at first but said that she felt sorry for her daughter.
There was tension and hesitation on both sides, but to Sharon’s surprise, her mother softened as she heard the sound of her grandchildren in the background. They spoke for hours, and by the end of the conversation, Sharon’s mother invited her to come home. But was this the reunion they were waiting for?
A Caring Person
Over the next few days, Karen took it upon herself to help Sharon in more ways than just her medical care. She knew the young girl needed more than just a nurse—she needed someone who cared. She helped her collect baby donations so she could have a head start.
Karen contacted Sharon’s estranged mother, Amanda, explaining the situation and urging her to reconcile with her daughter. They were all set to move in with her.
A Sad Mother
Amanda was hesitant at first, but the thought of her daughter giving birth alone broke her resolve. The next day, Amanda arrived at the hospital, tears in her eyes as she embraced Sharon for the first time in months. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered. “I should have been there for you.”
Sharon’s tears flowed freely as she held onto her mother. “I’m just glad you’re here now.” But would they be able to help each other?
Together Again
With Karen’s help, Sharon moved back in with her mother, bringing her three little girls into a more stable environment.
Karen continued to visit, offering advice and support as Sharon navigated the challenges of new motherhood. There was a huge adjustment and Amanda had to rearrange her small house to accommodate four other human beings.
Five Women One House
With Karen’s help, Sharon moved back into her mother’s house with her three beautiful daughters. It took some time for them to settle in. The babies filled the house with life, their tiny cries and laughter echoing through the walls. Soon Amanda was falling in love with them.
Sharon proved to be a loving and attentive mother, despite the hardships she faced. But would she be able to manage raising her children on her own?
Back On Track
Over time, Sharon enrolled in a GED program, determined to create a better life for her daughters. She was eager to go back to school.
Karen helped her study, offering guidance and encouragement. She even found out where she could get a government subsidy to help pay for her studies. When Sharon finally passed her exams, Karen was the first person she called, tears of joy streaming down her face.
Making Waves
Karen continued to visit, supporting Sharon in every way she could. She helped Sharon study for her GED, knowing that education was crucial for her future.
After months of hard work, Sharon passed her exams and found a part-time job as a waitress. Life was slowly beginning to stabilize, and Sharon felt a glimmer of hope for the first time in a long while. “I did it, Karen! I actually did it!” she cried happily. “I knew you could,” Karen replied, pride swelling in her chest.
Happier Than Ever
Sharon found a part-time job as a waitress, earning enough to contribute to her mother’s household and provide for her daughters.
It had been weeks since she even thought about Kevin and he was too scared to show his face. Sometimes she wondered if he knew where they were living. Life was hard, but it was getting better. Every day, Sharon grew more confident and capable, thanks in large part to Karen’s unwavering support.
Thank You So Much
One evening, after tucking her daughters into bed, Sharon sat down with Karen on the front porch of her mother’s house.
The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden glow over the neighbourhood. Sharon looked at Karen, her heart full of gratitude. “You saved me, Karen,” Sharon said, her voice thick with emotion. “You gave me hope when I had none. I don’t know how I’ll ever repay you.”
It’s My Duty
Karen smiled softly, taking Sharon’s hand in hers. “You don’t need to repay me, Sharon. Seeing you and your girls happy is all the thanks I need. You’re going to be a wonderful mother, and I’m so proud of you.”
Tears welled in Sharon’s eyes as she squeezed Karen’s hand. “Thank you, Karen. For everything.” She hugged her tight. Karen nodded; her own eyes misty. “You’re welcome, sweetheart. Just remember, you’re never alone. You’ve got your family now, and you’ve always got me.”
Time Goes On
Six months passed in a blur of diaper changes, sleepless nights, and small victories. The small house was busy with three growing babies.
Sharon was beginning to find her rhythm when, one night, there was a knock at the door. It was late. Who could it be? She was upstairs in her room, when she heard her mother scurry towards the entrance to check. She had a bad feeling about it.
A Late Visit
Just when things seemed to be settling into a peaceful routine, a knock on the door shattered the calm.
Amanda checked out the window, and her breath caught in her throat when she saw who was standing on the other side. To her shock, she found herself face to face with a man she hadn’t seen in over a year. What was he doing at her mother’s house?
The Man Returns
Kevin. Sharon’s old boyfriend, the father of her children. His clothes were worn, and dark circles lined his eyes. He looked as though he hadn’t slept in days. “Is Sharon here?” he asked, his voice rough and desperate.
He stood on the doorstep, looking worn and weary, as if life had taken its toll on him. His eyes were hollow, but there was a determination in his voice. “I’m here to see Sharon,” he said, his tone pleading.
Something To Say
Amanda’s protective instincts kicked in. “You shouldn’t be here,” she said firmly, blocking the doorway. “You abandoned her when she needed you most.” Before Kevin could respond, Karen appeared behind Amanda. She recognized Kevin instantly and felt a surge of anger. “You need to leave,” she said, her voice cold. “Sharon doesn’t want to see you.”
Kevin shook his head, desperation in his eyes. “Please, just let me talk to her. I’ve changed. I got a job, and I want to make things right. I want to be there for my daughters.”
Let Me See Him
The commotion had woken Sharon, and she slowly descended the stairs, her heart pounding in her chest. She was dreading having any confrontation with him at all. She put her nightgown on and walked slowly down the stairs.
When she saw Kevin, her breath caught in her throat. She hadn’t expected to see him again, not after everything that had happened.
It’s Been Some Time
Sharon walked slowly to the door. “Kevin,” she whispered, her voice trembling. She stood in the light to see him better. Kevin’s gaze softened when he saw her, and for a moment, he looked like the boy she had once loved.
“Sharon, I’m so sorry,” he said, his voice breaking. “I messed up, but I’m here now. I want us to be a family. Please, give me another chance.” But would she listen?
Let Me Help
The young girl had a brief moment of weakness, then she remembered she had been through the past year. She wasn’t going to make it easy for him. Amanda’s face hardened. “What do you want, Kevin?” she demanded, blocking the doorway with her small frame. “You have some nerve showing up here after everything you put her through.”
Kevin flinched but stood his ground. “I’m sorry. I know I messed up, but I’m here now. I finally got a job, and I want to be part of their lives. I want us to be a family.”
An Angry Mother
Amanda, who had been in the kitchen, came to the door, her eyes narrowing at the sight of Kevin. “You’ve got some nerve, Kevin. Get lost.” But Kevin didn’t move. His gaze was fixed on the stairs behind Amanda, where Sharon was slowly descending, her face a mask of disbelief. “Kevin?” she whispered, as if seeing a ghost.
He looked up at her, his expression softening. “Sharon, I’m sorry. I was scared, and I ran, but I’m here now. Please, give me a chance. I want to be there for you and the girls.”
She Can’t Decide
Sharon’s mind was a whirlwind of emotions—anger, sadness, confusion. She remembered how close she and Kevin were in high school and she wished that things were that simple again.
But he had left her. He ran away. He chose to leave her and their children. She was confused. She wanted to believe him, but the pain he had caused was still fresh in her heart. “I don’t know if I can trust you,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Go Away
Kevin took a step closer, but Amanda quickly intervened, standing protectively in front of Sharon. “You need to leave now,” Amanda said firmly. “Sharon has been through enough.”
Sharon took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. “Mum, it’s okay,” she said softly. “Let him speak.” She took a step forward and looked at Kevin straight in his eyes. He looked scared and she knew that he would now do anything to get them back.
The Last Straw
The angry mother wasn’t going to allow any of it. Amanda turned on him, her voice rising with anger. “You don’t get to walk away and then come back like nothing happened! Sharon was alone, scared, and you left her! You don’t deserve a place in her life or the lives of those babies!”
Kevin swallowed hard, his eyes pleading with Sharon. “I know I don’t deserve forgiveness, but I’m asking for it anyway. Please, Sharon, just give me a chance to make things right.”
A Bad Mother
Sharon looked from her mother to Kevin, her heart pounding in her chest. It was the worst decision, she had to think of her children’s future. She remembered the nights of crying herself to sleep, the fear of facing motherhood alone, and the countless times she wished Kevin had been there.
But she also remembered the love they once shared and the dreams they had before everything went wrong.
What You Did
Amanda hesitated but stepped aside, keeping a watchful eye on Kevin. Sharon looked him in the eyes, searching for any sign of sincerity. “You hurt me, Kevin. You left me when I needed you most. Why should I believe you now?” She was angry and confused.
Kevin’s shoulders sagged, and he looked down at his feet. “I was scared, Sharon. I didn’t know how to handle it. But I’ve had time to think, and I realized that I can’t run away from my responsibilities. I want to be a father to our girls. I want to be there for you.”
Try Again
Sharon’s heart ached with conflicting emotions. She had loved him once, but could she trust him again? “I need time to think,” she finally said. “Come back in the morning, and we’ll talk.”
Kevin was insistent. “I need time, Kevin,” Sharon said, her voice trembling. “I need time to think, to figure out what’s best for the girls and me. Come back in the morning. We’ll talk then.” Kevin nodded, relief washing over his face. “Thank you, Sharon. I’ll be back. I promise I won’t mess this up.” But she wasn’t looking forward to it.
The Right Thing
As he turned to leave, Amanda called after him, her voice sharp and unforgiving. “Don’t think for a second that I’ll let you hurt her again, Kevin. If you ever let her down like that again, you’ll have me to deal with.”
Kevin nodded, relief washing over his face. “Thank you, Sharon. I’ll be back.” As he turned and walked away, Sharon felt a sense of unease settle over her. She knew the decision she had to make would change the course of her life—and the lives of her daughters—forever.
A Real Family
Kevin didn’t say anything else; he just walked away, his shoulders slumped, leaving the door open to a future that was anything but certain. Karen placed a comforting hand on Sharon’s shoulder. “You don’t have to decide anything right now, Sharon. Take your time. We’ll figure this out together.”
Sharon nodded, tears welling in her eyes. She had come so far, but now it felt like she was right back where she started—caught between hope and fear, love and betrayal.
Is It Possible
As the night wore on, Sharon sat by the window, watching the shadows lengthen as the sky darkened. Her thoughts were a whirlwind of memories and emotions, all tangled up in the image of Kevin standing at the door, asking for another chance.
But this time, Sharon wasn’t the same girl she had been before. She was stronger now, wiser. She had her mother, her daughters, and Karen by her side. Whatever decision she made; she knew she wouldn’t be alone.
The Teenage Mother
The young mother finally had the strength to deal with her daughter’s father. She was doing it for them. Not him. When morning came, Sharon would face Kevin again, and whatever happened next would be on her terms.
The past was behind her, but the future was still unwritten. And this time, Sharon was ready to take control of her story.