The quick, steady sound filled the space.
I closed my eyes and let it hold me there.
The specialist arrived a little later with reassuring news: the team wanted to monitor me because of a change in the readings, but there was no emergency, and the baby appeared well.
They would keep me overnight and decide in the morning whether to wait or help the birth along.
I thanked her, though my voice shook.
Daniel came in with my coat and a bottle of water.
He sat beside the bed, asking only the questions I had not thought to ask.
When he was sure I was settled, he said, “Alexander is downstairs.”
I looked at the door.
“Did you tell him what the specialist said?”
“Only that you were being monitored and that you wanted him to wait until you decided whether he should come up.”
I let out a slow breath.
