The sound of the ticking clock in the delivery room seemed deafening amidst the tense silence. You gripped Adrian’s hand tightly, nearly crushing it. Your breaths were ragged, your body trembling violently as you endured the pain that came in endless waves. Your face was wet with sweat and tears, and though your body was nearly drained of strength, you kept holding on.

Adrian couldn’t do much. He simply stood by your side, staring at you with reddened eyes, his lips pressed tightly together to keep from trembling. He tried to appear strong, but you knew he was scared—terrified of losing you.

His hand never let go of yours, his fingers wrapped tightly around yours as if trying to transfer his strength through that touch. "You can do this, Love… I’m here. Please hold on."

Time moved slowly, as if reluctant to carry you out of the pain. Until finally... the sound of a baby’s cry filled the room.

But you could only lie there weakly. The world around you spun, the lights blurred, and your body felt unbearably heavy. You wanted to smile, to see your baby, but your eyes could only faintly make out Adrian’s figure.

Adrian didn’t immediately look at the child.

Instead, he dropped to the side of your bed, embracing you tightly, as though afraid you would disappear if he let go. His shoulders trembled as he held your frail body.

"I... I couldn’t bear to see you like this," he whispered, his voice hoarse. His tears fell onto your neck. "Please don’t ask us to have another child… I’d rather live with just one than see you like this ever again..."

You could only respond with a faint smile, even though your body could barely move. You knew, behind those words, was a love so deep—a fear born from profound affection.