Chapter 37. Welcome to the World, Babies!

4 months later....

Mary's pulse beat quickly as the crucial time drew near. She was lying in a clean hospital room with beeping equipment all around her and a slight antiseptic odor. She clung to Sam's firm, comforting hold while her hands trembled with a mix of excitement and terror. She had him there as an anchor in this storm of feelings. Mary's abdominal agony grew worse as waves of contractions rippled through her body.

She clenched Sam's hand even more as she winced, seeking comfort in the warmth of his contact. She gave him a quick glance as her eyes sparkled with admiration and affection. Sam returned her grin with unshakable support in his eyes.

In the middle of the confusion, he said, "You're doing great, Mary," his voice was a calming song. Simply take each breath as it comes. His words were her compass, pointing her through the pain's tempest.

Sam's voice and the cadence of his words caught Mary's attention, and she tri