Chapter 14 - The Birth of Leo
The maternity wing at St. Jude’s Hospital was locked down by Detective Keller’s team before Clara’s stretcher even reached the double doors.
Two armed officers stood at the elevator bank, their names checked against an authorized visitor list signed directly by the Chief of Police.
Inside the bright, sterile delivery room, Dr. Miriam Weber adjusted the fetal monitor and smiled warmly at Clara.
"His heartbeat is strong, steady, and loud," Dr. Weber announced over the rhythmic thumping of the monitor.
"You did an incredible job protecting him, Clara. Now let’s bring him out into the light."
For three hours, the room was filled with the sound of encouragement, the steady grip of Sophie’s hands, and Viktor’s quiet, rock-solid presence by the window.
There were no critical remarks about appearance, no demands for silence, and no fear of making a mistake.
With one final, powerful push, a lusty, defiant cry rang out across the surgical room, filling every corner with life.
"He's here!" Sophie cried out, tears streaming down her face as Dr. Weber lifted the healthy, pink newborn into her arms.
"Seven pounds, four ounces, and he has your chin, Clara!"
Dr. Weber gently laid the warm, crying infant across Clara’s chest, wrapping them both in a soft heated blanket.
Clara looked down at her son, tracing her finger over his tiny, perfect knuckles—knuckles that would never be wrapped in leather or raised in anger.
"Leo," Clara whispered, her tears soaking into the soft cotton of his cap.
"His name is Leo Viktor Hartmann-Adler."
Viktor walked over to the bedside, his large, weathered hands gently touching his grandson’s tiny heel.
May you like
"Leo," the old soldier repeated, his voice cracking with pride.
"A brave name for a brave boy. Welcome to the family, little lion."
