**Chapter 9: It Hurts**

As the contraction intensified, Dorothy's body tensed up, her hands clenching into fists. "It hurts, I don't know if I can do this anymore," she cried out, her voice shaking with fear and pain. Lucas held her close, his arms wrapped tightly around her waist, trying to provide as much comfort as possible. Blanche, Rose, and Sophia were all focused on helping Dorothy, their faces set in determined expressions. Blanche gently adjusted the towel that was draped over Dorothy's legs, while Rose and Sophia provided emotional support from the front. Sophia placed a comforting hand on Dorothy's shoulder, her eyes filled with empathy. "You can do this, dear," she said, her voice calm and soothing. "We've got you. Just breathe and push." Rose chatted softly, trying to distract Dorothy from the discomfort. "You're doing great, Dorothy. We're almost there. Just a little bit more." Blanche checked Dorothy's progress, her hands gently probing her lower abdomen. "The baby's head is almost here," she said, her voice filled with encouragement. "Just one more push, Dorothy." Dorothy took a deep breath, trying to steel herself for the next contraction. Lucas held her close, his body a steady presence behind hers. He could feel her tension and anxiety, and he did his best to reassure her. "You can do this, Dorothy," he said, his voice calm and soothing. "We're all here to help you. Just breathe and push." As the contraction reached its peak, Dorothy's body began to tremble. She felt like she was losing control, like she couldn't push anymore. But Blanche, Rose, and Sophia were all there to support her, urging her on. Blanche's voice was calm and gentle, but firm. "Dorothy, you need to push now. The baby's coming." Dorothy steeled herself, taking a deep breath. She felt the pain and discomfort, but she also felt a surge of determination. She was going to do this. She was going to push this baby out. With a newfound sense of resolve, Dorothy began to push. Her body strained, her face contorted in pain and effort. Lucas held her close, his voice urging her on. "Come on, Dorothy. You can do this. Push!" The room was filled with tension as they waited for the baby to arrive. Dorothy's friends were all focused on helping her, their faces set in determined expressions. They were a team, working together to bring Dorothy's baby into the world. As Dorothy pushed, she felt a sense of relief wash over her. She was doing it. She was pushing the baby out. And with one final push, everything changed. The room fell silent, except for the sound of the baby's first cry.