Chapter 435
“The time you spend holding Gabriela will directly correlate to the information you provide,” Bryan remarked, his pragmatic side fully on display. Then, turning to Jacob, he added, “Eileen wanted me to mention—Phoebe seems off. You might want to have a psychologist assess her.”
Since Phoebe’s return from the hospital, Eileen had sensed something was amiss. Phoebe’s lack of maternal joy, coupled with persistent anxiety, pointed to the possibility of postpartum depression—a condition not to be taken lightly.
Jacob’s expression tightened as he sat up straight. “What exactly are you implying?”
“Just what I said,” Bryan responded tersely before exiting the room, Gabriela cradled in his arms.
After Phoebe’s pregnancy was confirmed, Jacob had thrown himself into learning everything from prenatal care to breastfeeding techniques, aware of the risks of postpartum depression, especially during the breastfeeding period.
Driven by concern, Jacob hurriedly left Josue’s house and drove straight to the postpartum care center where Phoebe was staying. It was the most renowned facility in Onaland, staffed with top professionals who ensured that Phoebe’s diet and the baby’s care were impeccable.
Phoebe’s mother had only stayed for two days, leaving quickly due to their strained relationship, which had worsened after Phoebe cut ties with her family. Their time together had been incredibly awkward, so it was no surprise when Phoebe’s mother jumped at the first opportunity to leave.
Typically, Gwyneth visited Phoebe during the day, while Jacob stayed through the nights. On this particular day, arriving unexpectedly early, Jacob found Gwyneth and the caregivers clustered around the baby, deep in conversation. He moved on to the bedroom, where Phoebe sat, staring out of the window.
A warm breeze wafted through the slightly open window. Jacob moved to close it, cautioning, “Honey, they say to avoid drafts, or you might catch a chill.”
“But the air is stifling,” Phoebe replied softly, as Jacob guided her back to the bed. Her eyes, once vibrant, now seemed dull and distant.
“Hot or not, you shouldn’t risk it. Just be patient, and once you’re fully recovered, I’ll take you out to enjoy the breeze as much as you’d like,” Jacob reassured her.
Phoebe glanced down at her postpartum figure. “Forget it, I’m too heavy now. Besides, your mom mentioned it’s too early to take the baby outside. We might have to wait until spring.”
“Why mention taking the baby outside?” Jacob was puzzled.
“It’s what everyone says—that nursing mothers shouldn’t be far from their infants,” Phoebe explained, her tone heavy.
Jacob’s heart twisted with a mix of confusion and concern. He gently kissed her forehead. “Don’t worry about any of that. I’ll take care of everything. You just focus on getting better.”