Motherhood

Disclaimer: I do not own Downton Abbey or anything like that.

She was having a particularly frustrating night.

She knew she was supposed to be thrilled with her new baby, her new life. But right now her new life was less exciting than before…except for the screaming baby in her arms. Things were wonderful after the birth. Now, a week later, things were less than.

"Darling, please sleep." Sybil murmured to the screaming newborn in her arms. Arms flailing and legs kicking, the baby continued to protest.

"Love," her husband's voice caused her to look up, which is when he noticed the unshed tears in her eyes. He frowned and stepped further into the room, holding his arms out for their child.

"I do not understand what it is that I'm doing wrong," Sybil managed to choke out with a small sob.

"Oh my love," Tom whispered softly, kneeling down in front of his overwhelmed wife. He rested a hand on her knee, squeezing gently. "You are doing nothing wrong. Why don't you get some rest, and I will stay up with the baby."

Sybil sniffled and shook her head. "You have to work in the morning."

"You need to rest."

After a few moments, Sybil bowed her head and composed herself, taking a deep breath. "Just for a few hours."

The compromise made Tom smile and he gently took the screaming babe into his arms. "It will get easier, Sybil." He held the baby in the crook of one arm and then helped his wife to her feet with the other. He squeezed the hand he held and brought it up to his lips.

She offered him a tiny smile. "I know." She noticed a change in the room and looked down at their baby…sound asleep in her father's arms. Her lip stuck out in a pout. "How…?"

There was a twinkle in Tom's eyes and he simply motioned toward the door. "To bed, Sybil."

"I won't sleep if you speak to me in that tone." She paused in the doorway and smiled. "Thank you, Tom."

"I love you."

"I love you more."