Chapter 48 - The Labor
My water broke at 2:00 AM on a Tuesday.
The rush to the hospital was chaotic, frightening, and completely beautiful.
Mark drove carefully, holding my hand the entire way. Clara stayed at the house with my mother, who had flown in for the birth.
When we arrived at the maternity ward, I was rushed into a delivery room.
The room was large, with massive windows looking out over the sleeping city. There was so much space. So much light.
The contractions hit hard and fast.
"I can't do it," I cried out, the pain overwhelming my senses.
"Yes, you can," Mark said, standing right beside my head, coaching my breathing. "You are so strong, Maya. Look at me. Don't look at the walls, look at me."
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I locked my eyes onto his. His steady, unwavering gaze pulled me through the pain.
I wasn't in the dark. I wasn't trapped. I was bringing life into the world, surrounded by love.
