I had just given birth when my 8-year-old daughter came to visit me. She quietly closed the curtain and whispered, «Mom, get under the bed. Now.» We crawled under together, holding our breath. Then, footsteps approached, and she gently covered my mouth…

The Wilson family’s white two-story house stood quietly in the lush suburban neighborhood of Boston. November morning had arrived, with fallen leaves accumulating in the front yard, signaling the end of autumn and the coming of winter. Deborah stood by the window, resting both hands on her heavily pregnant belly as she took slow, deep breaths.

For her, this pregnancy was a miracle after seven years of fertility treatments. After numerous failures and moments of despair, this baby was conceived just when she had nearly given up hope. Every morning, Deborah offered prayers of gratitude for this precious life.

Mom, look at my science project! Lily’s cheerful voice echoed from the living room. Deborah slowly descended the stairs and gazed at the solar system model her eight-year-old daughter proudly displayed. The project, with its accurate planetary placement and proportional sizes, reflected Lily’s delicate sensibility and intellectual curiosity.

It’s wonderful, Lily! You’ve really paid attention to every detail, Deborah smiled, gently stroking her daughter’s brown curls. Lily looked pleased that her mother had praised her work. She excelled in school, with teachers recognizing her particular talents in science and art.

She had a vivid imagination and occasionally surprised people with her mature behavior. Are you going to show it to dad? Will he be home late? At Lily’s question, Deborah’s expression clouded momentarily. Her husband Michael worked as a sales manager at a medical equipment manufacturer and had become increasingly busy lately.

He traveled frequently, spending less and less time at home. Dad said he has an important meeting with clients, so he’ll be late today. But you can definitely show him tomorrow morning, Deborah spoke gently to her daughter, those small worries swirled inside her.

Michael had been noticeably tired lately, with family conversations becoming less frequent. Can you imagine making $10,000 a month just from YouTube all from home? That’s exactly what I did with Reddit Stories! No face, no voice! Check the link in the description if you’re curious. He seemed genuinely happy about the birth of their second child, but there was something unsettled about him that concerned her.

Deborah herself had worked for years as a library curator but had taken leave on her doctor’s orders after entering the late stages of pregnancy. Being forced to rest at home was difficult for her active nature, but safely delivering the baby was her top priority. In the afternoon, Deborah prepared a light dinner for Lily while reviewing her pre-birth checklist.

One week until her due date. The hospital bag was almost ready, and the newborn clothes were washed and folded. They had already decided on the name Thomas, after Michael’s father.

The sound of the front door opening was followed by the patter of Lily’s feet rushing to greet someone. It seemed Michael had unexpectedly returned home early. Dad! Look at my solar system! Lily’s excited voice was followed by Michael’s tired laugh.

That’s amazing, Lily! You really have talent! Deborah emerged from the kitchen to welcome her husband. Michael’s face showed signs of fatigue, his tie was loosened, and his shirt collar was wrinkled. He approached his wife, smiling at her large belly, and gave her a light kiss.

The meeting ended earlier than expected. How are you feeling? I’m fine. My back hurts a little, but the doctor says that’s normal.

That night, after Lily had gone to bed, the couple relaxed in the living room watching television. Michael put his arm around Deborah’s shoulder and buried his face in her hair. Deborah, I’m truly happy I met you.

Deborah was slightly surprised by this sudden sentimental remark. Michael then began discussing plans for after the birth. His parents lived far away and would have difficulty visiting right after the delivery, and Deborah’s parents couldn’t travel long distances due to health reasons.

They concluded that their friend Carol would be their most reliable support. Late that night, Deborah suddenly woke to intense pain. Labor had begun, a full week before her due date.

Michael was scheduled to leave for a two-day business trip the next morning but quickly began preparing. I’ll call Carol, Deborah said, fighting through the pain. You should go on your trip.

This might take a while. Michael looked hesitant but eventually agreed to Deborah’s suggestion. Carol arrived promptly and would take Deborah to the hospital…