**Chapter 29: The Moment of Truth**
Part 29
The nurse, Karen, glided into the room with a warm smile, her eyes scanning Jacquie's chart before focusing on the expectant mother. "It's time, Jacquie. You're 10 centimeters dilated, and the babies are ready to meet you." Jacquie's eyes snapped open, and she turned to Noah, her hand reaching out for his. Noah took her hand, his fingers intertwining with hers as he offered a reassuring smile. "I'm here, baby. I've got you." Jacquie's grip tightened as her contractions intensified, and Karen guided her through the pushing process. As the minutes ticked by, Jacquie's breathing grew more labored, and Noah's voice became a steady stream of encouragement. "You're doing great, Jacquie. Push, baby, push." Karen offered words of guidance, directing Jacquie on when to push and how to breathe. Throughout it all, Jacquie held onto Noah's hands, her eyes locked on his as she drew strength from his presence. Noah's face was etched with concern, but his eyes shone with excitement and love. He was her rock, her safe haven, and she drew on his strength to push through the pain. The hours passed, and finally, Karen announced, "I can see the first baby's head. One more push, Jacquie." Jacquie's body trembled with exhaustion, but she summoned every last ounce of energy and pushed with all her might. As the baby emerged into the world, Karen lifted her up and placed her gently in Jacquie's arms. "Meet Ellie-Mae Johnson-Erlick," she said, beaming. Jacquie's eyes welled up with tears as she gazed at her daughter, her heart overflowing with love. Noah's eyes shone with tears as he gazed at his daughter, his voice trembling with emotion. "She's beautiful, Jacquie. Our little girl is perfect." Jacquie smiled, her eyes never leaving her daughter's face, as she reached out for Noah. The nurse gently took Jacquie's hand, guiding her through one final push. And then, in a flurry of activity, the second baby emerged. Karen lifted him up, and Jacquie's eyes met Noah's as she gazed at their son. "Meet Charlie Johnson-Erlick," Karen said, smiling. Noah's face lit up with joy as he gazed at his son, his eyes shining with tears. Jacquie's heart swelled with love as she gazed at her two babies, her arms open wide to welcome them both. As the doctor and nurse tended to the babies, Noah leaned in, his lips brushing against Jacquie's. "You did it, baby," he whispered. "You're a mom." Jacquie smiled, her eyes shining with happiness, as she gazed at their two little miracles, Ellie-Mae and Charlie.