During my labor, my husband, Alex, brought an Xbox and his friend to avoid boredom, revealing a gap in his support. His parents’ arrival reshaped our bond. Pregnancy was thrilling, with me charting our baby’s progress and Alex, an IT specialist, gaming to relax. He’d pause to feel our son kick, calling him “our little hero,” his joy reassuring me we were ready.
Alex was caring, joining me at checkups and fetching cravings, but his gaming during labor classes—asking about Wi-Fi—sparked doubts. Would he be there when it mattered? His parents, Carol and Jim, were excited, sending gifts and calling often. Carol, with her commanding presence, said, “Alex can be in his head, but he’ll show up.” I held onto that.
At 38 weeks, I told Alex I’d need him fully engaged for labor. “I’m on it,” he said, mentioning a “distraction” for “quiet moments.” I thought he meant a podcast, not a gaming setup. He cited a friend’s long labor, saying, “It’s mostly waiting.” Exhausted, I trusted him. When my water broke at 2 a.m., we headed to the hospital. Nurse Rachel helped me settle, asking, “Where’s your husband?” “Getting our bags,” I said, bracing for a contraction.
Alex arrived with a backpack, unpacking an Xbox, energy drinks, and snacks. “For the downtime,” he said, plugging in as I labored. “Alex, I need you,” I said. “I’m right here,” he replied, focused on his setup, “but this takes ages.” Then his friend, Sam, showed up with subs, planning to game. The smell made me queasy. “Why’s he here?” I asked. “Extra support,” Alex said. Rachel firmly told Sam to leave, but Alex said, “It’s cool.”
Then Carol and Jim walked in, stunned by the scene. Carol’s firm, “Alex, out, now,” stopped him cold. Sam left, and Alex faced a hallway lecture. Rachel checked me, saying, “Your mother-in-law’s got control.” When Alex returned, humbled, Jim took the Xbox. Alex took my hand, saying, “I’m sorry, Kate. I’m here.” Carol stayed, wiping my brow, promising care. Alex supported me through 15 hours of labor, lifting me up as our son, Lucas, arrived.
Alex’s parents stayed to ensure he stayed focused. He’s been a devoted dad, soothing Lucas at night. That day tested us, but his parents’ timing showed him what love demands, strengthening our partnership for the journey ahead.
