Contents
Chapter 48
Overview
Two weeks after Dominic’s birth, Veronica is overwhelmed by sleep deprivation and a constantly crying newborn but recommits to sobriety. Clay proves supportive, taking Dominic for a drive and errands so Veronica can finally sleep, marking an early test of their parenting partnership and her recovery resolve.
Summary
Veronica narrates life two weeks after Dominic’s birth, reveling in brief joys of nursing while grappling with relentless crying and extreme sleep deprivation. She admits fleeting temptation to relapse but reaffirms that Dominic is her priority and that she cannot return to drugs.
As Dominic screams despite their efforts, Veronica and Clay trade off soothing him. Veronica is near tears and physical exhaustion, recognizing that only she sometimes calms him, but nothing works tonight.
Seeing Veronica at her limit, Clay suggests taking Dominic for a car ride—hoping motion will settle him—and offers to buy more diapers. Veronica notes his attentiveness and increasing reliability as a father, handing over Dominic and the diaper bag.
Once Clay leaves with the baby, Veronica collapses onto the mattress and immediately falls asleep, finding brief, much-needed rest while Clay handles the crisis.
Who Appears
- VeronicaExhausted new mother two weeks postpartum; resists relapse urges and accepts Clay’s help to rest.
- ClaySupportive partner and Dominic’s father; takes the inconsolable baby for a drive and buys diapers.
- DominicTwo-week-old infant; frequently inconsolable, triggering Veronica’s exhaustion and testing the parents’ resolve.