Moments after welcoming my newborn into the world, my 8-year-old daughter arrived at my bedside. With a swift motion, she pulled the curtain shut and murmured…

That night, after Lily had gone to bed, the couple relaxed in the living room watching television. Michael put his arm around Deborah’s shoulder and buried his face in her hair. Deborah, I’m truly happy I met you.

Deborah was slightly surprised by this sudden sentimental remark. Michael then began discussing plans for after the birth. His parents lived far away and would have difficulty visiting right after the delivery, and Deborah’s parents couldn’t travel long distances due to health reasons.

They concluded that their friend Carol would be their most reliable support. Late that night, Deborah suddenly woke to intense pain. Labor had begun, a full week before her due date.

Michael was scheduled to leave for a two-day business trip the next morning but quickly began preparing. I’ll call Carol, Deborah said, fighting through the pain. You should go on your trip.

This might take a while. Michael looked hesitant but eventually agreed to Deborah’s suggestion. Carol arrived promptly and would take Deborah to the hospital.

Before leaving, Lily, with half-sleepy eyes, said in a small voice, Mom, Dad, please come back soon with the baby. By the time they reached the hospital, the contractions were coming closer together. The delivery seemed to be progressing faster than expected.

Carol contacted the hospital and informed Michael of the situation. After intense pain and a long labor, Deborah gave birth to a healthy boy, Thomas Wilson. The tiny life breathed quietly in her exhausted arms.

A day after giving birth, Deborah lay quietly in her hospital bed. Postpartum fatigue and pain still lingered throughout her body, but the presence of little Thomas sleeping in the bassinet beside her provided comfort. Morning light streamed through the window, announcing the start of a new day.

The door was knocked on, and Michael entered with a bouquet of flowers. He had returned immediately from his business trip after receiving news of the birth and rushed to his wife and son. Deborah, you did so well.

He’s perfect. Michael gently picked up Thomas and gazed at him in admiration. However, Deborah sensed something odd about Michael’s behavior.

He seemed happy about his son, but he appeared restless, occasionally glancing toward the Michael hastily shook his head. No, nothing. I’m just waiting for a call from the office.

They’re still contacting me despite the situation. I’m sorry. His explanation was reasonable, but Deborah’s intuition told her otherwise.

Their conversation was interrupted by a nurse entering the room. She wore a name tag that read, Rachel, and began checking on Deborah’s condition with a bright smile. How are you feeling this morning, Mrs. Wilson? Has the pain subsided? Rachel checked Deborah’s blood pressure, giving Michael a friendly smile.

Michael merely nodded briefly to her before quickly averting his eyes. It’s a little better, thank you, Deborah replied. Rachel checked the fore and handed Deborah a pill.

This is a painkiller prescribed by the doctor. Please take it with water. After Deborah took the medication, Rachel nodded with satisfaction, made some notes, and left the room.

Michael followed, saying he needed to make a work call. Alone, Deborah was suddenly overcome with intense drowsiness. The painkiller seemed too strong….