**Chapter 29: Uncertainty and Fear**

"I'm only 24 weeks," Ashley said, her voice barely above a whisper as she looked at the nurse with a mix of panic and fear in her eyes. The nurse's expression turned understanding, and she nodded calmly. "At 24 weeks, we're considered to be in the second trimester, but we're getting close to the third. With a placental abruption, there's a risk of preterm labor, but we'll do everything we can to prevent it." Ashley's eyes widened in alarm. "Will I go into labor?" she asked, her voice trembling. The nurse took a deep breath before responding. "It's possible, but we're going to do everything we can to stop it. You'll be on bedrest, and we'll monitor you closely for any signs of labor. We'll also be keeping a close eye on the baby's heart rate and making sure you're stable." Ashley felt a wave of panic wash over her. "What if I do go into labor? What will happen?" she asked, her voice laced with worry. The nurse's expression turned gentle. "If you do go into labor, we'll do everything we can to delay it as long as possible. At 24 weeks, the baby is still premature, but we're lucky to have a great neonatal team here. If the baby is born, they'll receive the best care possible." Ashley's eyes filled with tears as she thought about the possibility of her baby being born so early. "Will I be able to be discharged?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. The nurse shook her head. "I'm afraid not, Ashley. With a placental abruption, you need to be monitored closely, and you'll need to stay here for at least a few days to make sure you're stable. We'll also need to keep an eye on the baby and make sure they're doing okay." Ashley felt a lump form in her throat as she thought about being stuck in the hospital for an unknown amount of time. She was scared, and she just wanted to go home and have a normal pregnancy. But deep down, she knew that wasn't possible right now. The nurse squeezed her hand reassuringly. "I know this is a lot to take in, Ashley. But we'll be here with you every step of the way. We'll do everything we can to make sure you and your baby are safe and healthy." Ashley took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. She knew she had to be strong for her baby, and she was determined to do just that. But as she lay there, she couldn't shake the feeling of uncertainty and fear that had settled in her stomach.