Into Labor

Ashley's eyes widened in panic as she was wheeled into a delivery room, the bright lights and beeping machines overwhelming her senses. "My baby, is he okay?" she cried out, her voice shaking with fear. Avan squeezed her hand reassuringly. "He's fine, Ash. The doctor will check on him soon." But Ashley was beyond consolation. She was wracked with pain, her body contracting with increasing intensity. "Help him," she cried, tears streaming down her face. "Please help him." The nurse rushed to her side, trying to calm her down. "Ma'am, I need you to focus on your breathing. We're going to get through this." But Ashley was too far gone. She was lost in a sea of pain, her only thought of her baby and whether he was safe. "How dilated am I?" she panted, trying to speak through her contractions. The doctor, who had been quietly observing from the side of the room, stepped forward. "Let me check," she said, putting on her gloves. Ashley felt a surge of relief as the doctor began to examine her. She was moved onto the bed, and the doctor gently inserted her fingers into Ashley's vagina. Ashley winced, but the doctor's calm demeanor helped her relax. "You're about 4 centimeters dilated," the doctor said, smiling reassuringly. "We're making great progress. But I want you to take it one contraction at a time, okay?" Ashley nodded, trying to focus on the doctor's words. But her mind was racing with thoughts of her baby, and whether he was okay. She was having her baby, and it was happening now. The doctor turned to Avan. "I need you to step out for a minute, sir. We'll call you in when it's time." Avan hesitated, but Ashley nodded weakly. "It's okay," she whispered. "I'll be fine." Avan leaned down and kissed her forehead. "I'll be right outside," he said. "Just call me." As he left, Ashley felt a sense of isolation wash over her. She was alone, and she was scared. But she knew she had to focus on her baby, and get through this. She took a deep breath, and let the next contraction wash over her.