Epilogue

Olivia Martins

“Push harder, Luna. I can see the head,” Doctor Williams said urgently, his hands steady and sure. “One more big push.”

I gripped Caspian’s hand so tight I was probably cutting off his circulation, but he didn’t complain. He just kept stroking my sweaty hair back from my forehead with his free hand.

“You’re doing so well, baby,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to my temple. “So strong. I’m so proud of you.”

The contraction hit like a wave, stealing my breath and making me cry out. Every muscle in my body strained as I pushed with everything I had. I’d never felt pain like this, but underneath it was something else: anticipation, love, and the desperate need to finally meet our baby.

Almost there, I thought through the haze. Almost time to meet you.

“That’s it, Luna. Perfect,” Doctor Williams encouraged. “I can see more of the head. Your baby’s almost here.”

Caspian’s thumb swept across my knuckles, his other hand never sto