The Moment of Truth

Ashley sat on the couch, her swollen feet propped up on a pillow, her eyes fixed on the clock on the wall. She was 38 weeks pregnant, and her body felt like it was ready to burst. Karen, her foster mom, had been busy preparing the nursery for weeks, and the room was finally ready. Ashley had seen it earlier that day, and it was perfect. The walls were painted a soft yellow, and the furniture was all new and adorable. A crib, a changing table, and a rocking chair sat in the corner, waiting for the new baby to arrive. As Ashley sat there, she felt a sudden gurge in her stomach, and her eyes widened in alarm. She looked at Karen, who was busily sorting through a stack of diapers on the coffee table. "Karen," she said, her voice trembling. Karen looked up, a concerned expression on her face. "What's wrong?" she asked, her voice low and soothing. Ashley took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. "I think it's happening now," she said, her voice rising in panic. Karen's expression changed from calm to urgent in an instant. She dropped the diapers and rushed over to Ashley's side. "Let's get you to the hospital," she said, grabbing a bag that was sitting by the door. But Ashley was already standing up, her hands on her belly. "I think it's happening here," she said, her voice shaking. Karen quickly grabbed some towels and followed Ashley to the prepared room. As Ashley walked into the room, she let out a loud yell. "I think it's happening now!" she cried again. Karen rushed over to her side, a look of calm determination on her face. "Okay, sweetie, I'm here," she said. "Let's get you settled in." But Ashley was beyond consolation. She collapsed onto the bed, her body wracked with pain. "I'm scared," she cried, her voice shaking. Karen sat down beside her, taking her hand in hers. "You got this, Ashley," she said. "I'm here with you." But Ashley was beyond reason. "I can't do this," she wailed, her body shaking with fear and pain. Karen pulled her into a tight hug. "You can, Ashley," she said. "You're strong, and capable, and you're not alone. I'm here with you, every step of the way."