(Ruby's POV)
The pain started on a Tuesday.
I was in the conservatory, watering the orchids, when the first contraction hit. It was sharp, sudden, stealing my breath. I dropped the watering can and grabbed the edge of the table.
"Ruby?"
Nicholas was at the door. His face went pale.
"The baby," I said.
He crossed the room in three strides. "Now?"
"Now."
The drive to the hospital was a blur.
Liam drove fast, his eyes on the road, his hands tight on the wheel. Nicholas sat in the back with me, holding my hand, timing the contractions on his phone.
"Breathe," he said.
"I am breathing."
"Breathe deeper."
I glared at him. "I will kill you."
He smiled. "Not if the baby kills you first."
"Not funny."
"I know." He kissed my forehead. "I'm scared too."
The hospital was bright, white, busy.
Nurses rushed me to a room. Doctors asked questions. Machines beeped. Nicholas stayed by my side, holding my hand, not letting go.
"You're doing great," he said.
"I'm not doing anything."
