Carson nodded when Caitlin mentioned seeing about having Tim named as co-head of her department. With everything they had to do down there as well as all the projects they got pulled to help other departments with, that was a really good idea. Especially, also, with Caitlin being pregnant.
"I'm sure Sam will agree," he said just before Rodney came in with Erin.
The poor man looked like he was completely strung out, so while Caitlin took Erin, who started feeding from the bottle, Carson went over to Rodney. Taking hold of his shoulders, he steered him over to the nearby chair and had him sit down.
"Rodney, you're stressed and wound tighter than a bloody caster," he told him. "Erin can sense that."
"Of course, I'm wound up. She won't eat!"
"She won't eat because you're wound up. Now, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths and relax. Clear your mind." Rodney stared at Carson for a moment before finally doing what he said and closing his eyes, his chest rising and falling as he breathed in and out. "Good, just like that."
"I'm a horrible father. I can't do this alone," Rodney said softly.
"You're not horrible. This is just a rough time for both of you. If you're feeling upset, you just have to take a few moments and settle yourself down before you deal with Erin. Babies are rather sensitive, you know. Especially when it comes to their parents." When Rodney nodded, Carson looked up at Caitlin and motioned her over. "Now how are you feeling?"
"Better," Rodney said, his voice a bit thicker.
"Hey, don't relax yourself so much you fall asleep. Now, why don't you take Erin and see what happens."
Opening his eyes, Rodney nodded and reached up for his daughter.