The New Baby

Tony smiled at his new brother. Newborn Cam lay in his bassinette sleeping. Mother lay in her hospital bed, glad that it was over and everyone was healthy. She enjoyed relaxing in the hospital for a few days, while the medical staff made sure that she and her second child responded well to the first few days of life.

Father took Tony home after his first hospital visit. Tony thought his new brother was interesting. They made another visit the next day and Tony continued his fascination with the baby in the bassinette.

After a few days, it was time to take Mother and Cam home. Tony seemed ready, however it is hard to know what a two year old thinks. The nurse pushed Mother in a wheelchair, while Mother held Cam in her arms. Father carried Tony, who, with a puzzled look on his face, watched his mom holding Cam.

The nurse took Cam, while Mother entered the car. Mother took Cam in her lap when she seat belted herself into the passenger seat. Father put Tony into the back seat – an unfamiliar place. (These were the days before car seats.)

Tony didn’t look happy at this turn of events. The tiny imp was fine in the hospital, but he didn’t belong on his mom’s lap. What’s going on here?

Tony’s tears started to roll and his anger grew. Tony was mad at the new kid, and he was mad at his mom. As they drove home, Tony stood on the floor of the back seat, behind his mom, and started banging his fist on mom’s head. Mother, still emotional from a lengthy delivery, started to cry. Tony and Mother bawled all the way home. Not the best start for a family of three, becoming a family of four.


(300 words)