The high school chair she was sitting in dug into Maxine’s lower back, a dull ache competing with the throbbing fullness in her breasts. They were heavy, swollen globes, a constant reminder of the life she nurtured. Engorged barely described it; they felt like two overripe fruits, stretched tight and ready to burst.
She hadn't expected this surge. The baby was sleeping soundly in his bassinet, finally succumbing to exhaustion after a particularly fussy afternoon. Usually, he nursed every two hours, a tiny, demanding monarch. Today, he decided on a longer reign of slumber, leaving Maxine feeling like a human dairy cow, overdue for milking.
The weight of the sleepless night she had, compounded by the insistent ache in her breasts, was a heavy cloak. Sighing, she unbuttoned her blouse, each snap echoing in the sudden quiet of her classroom. She peeled it off, tossing it onto a desk. Next came the bra, the underwire digging into her skin a constant reminder of her overflowing milk supply. With a flick of the wrist, the clasp gave way, and her large and swollen breasts sprang free, the taut skin glistening faintly in the soft light. They were heavy, swollen with milk, each movement a dull throb.
She didn't think anyone would be here so early, as she was usually the first one at school
Sighing, she reached for one swollen breast, cupping it gently. The skin felt tight, almost translucent. A drop of milk, pearly white, beaded at the nipple. Guilt pricked at her. Leo should be here, drawing comfort and sustenance. But he wasn't, and the pressure was becoming unbearable.
With a practiced hand, she began to massage the engorged tissue, working from the outer edges towards the nipple. The movement was soothing, a small act of rebellion against the discomfort. Soon, a steady stream of milk began to flow, swirling into the bathwater like liquid pearl.
The relief was immediate and profound. She continued, her movements rhythmic and efficient. The sound of the milk hitting the water was a soft, comforting splash. She imagined Leo's tiny hands, his soft lips latched on, the contented sighs that followed. Lost in thought, she didn't notice the bathroom door creak open. They stood silhouetted in the doorway, watching as she massaged her globe like breasts.