— Ethan, I’m so sorry to call this late, but I think I’m in labor. What do I do? I’m scared to death.
His voice turned calm and steady instantly.
— First, breathe. I’m calling an ambulance right now, and I’m on my way. Grab your bag. You’re going to be okay. I’m with you.
And somehow, hearing that, she could breathe again.
Ethan paced the hospital hallway for more than two hours with no news. Finally the doors opened and a nurse hurried toward him.
— Are you Mrs. Carter’s husband?
Ethan answered without thinking.
— Yes. What happened?
The nurse spoke quickly.
— The baby was large and in a bad position. We had to do an emergency C-section. She lost a dangerous amount of blood and is in intensive care right now. We need a transfusion immediately. What’s your blood type?
Ethan answered at once.
— O positive.
The nurse let out a breath.
— Perfect. It’s a match. Are you willing to donate?
He stared at her.
— Of course I am. Just do whatever you need to do. Save her.
Emily woke up in a recovery room. The moment she tried to move, sharp pain tore through her abdomen and she cried out. A nurse was at her side immediately.
— Easy now. No sudden movements. You’ve got stitches.
Emily looked wildly around the room and, not seeing a bassinet, panicked.
— What happened? Where’s my baby? Is he okay?
The nurse moved quickly to reassure her.
— Your son is fine. A big healthy boy—over nine pounds.
— Things got complicated, and we had to operate. Your husband donated blood and helped save your life, — the nurse added. — You’re both going to be all right now. Just rest.
Emily lay there in stunned silence. Ethan had done that for her without hesitation. So his feelings were real. Completely real.
Her heart filled with gratitude. And still, staring at the ceiling, she spoke silently to the past.
