Ethan noticed the tension in her face and moved to her side without hesitation.
"Wife, are you alright? You look a little distressed," he asked softly, his voice carrying both worry and urgency.
He quickly slipped an arm around her, drawing her gently against his chest while his other hand rested protectively on her swollen belly.
The closer Elena came to her due date, the more a quiet fear gnawed at him.
The thought that there might be more than one child growing inside her made the risk of labor feel heavier and more dangerous.
And every time they talked about it, Elena would offer a calm smile, reassuring him that her body was strong since she was already an awakened person.
But Ethan couldn't shake his concern. Elena had to be safe—no matter what.
And more than anything, he prayed that their child—or children—would come into the world strong and healthy.
