Finally, the day arrived—or rather, it burst upon me like an unexpected storm. It was just past dawn when the first contraction hit, sharp and insistent. A crackle of pain radiated through my abdomen, forcing me to sit up straight in bed. I breathed through it, feeling a wave of excitement wash over me. This was it. This was what I had been waiting for.
I scrambled out of bed, the weight of my belly pulling me down. The world felt surreal, bright and edges soft, as I moved to dress myself. I donned a floral nightgown, my hands trembling slightly as I brushed my hair and tied it back. I caught my reflection in the mirror—my face was flushed, my eyes bright. I felt alive; no—more than alive. I felt electric.
With each contraction, I became more aware of the urgency building inside me. I called out for Michelle, my voice a mix of panic and exhilaration. “It’s time!”
