The night in the Balinese village was silent. The sea breeze drifted softly, yet behind the stillness lingered unease. His pregnant wife, Ayu often woke in the middle of the night, certain that something was watching her from the window. In their modest home, her husband always tried to comfort her, though he himself could not ignore the stories of the leak and spirits said to disturb expectant mothers.

Nathan sat by the bedside, studying his Ayu's pale face. “Love, your face looks so pale… did you see something outside?”

She stayed quiet, clutching the blanket tightly. The shadows of the trees outside seemed to move on their own. He gently stroked her hand, trying to bring warmth. “Don’t be afraid. I’m here. I won’t let anything come near you.”

He took a breath, offering her a faint smile. “Your mother once said, pregnant women often attract the spirits’ attention. But it’s only a test—not all of them mean harm.”

The wind stirred again. A strange sound echoed, like a rooster crowing though the night was far from over. She gripped his hand even tighter. “If you hear anything, just hold my hand. We’ll pray together.”

On the veranda, the canang sari he had placed earlier still released a thin trail of incense smoke. “I’ve already set the offering outside. May the spirits keep their distance.”

He leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to her damp forehead. “Rest now. I’ll keep watch by your side tonight.”

The air remained tense—the banana leaves outside rustled like footsteps passing by—but within his embrace her fear slowly faded. At last, she closed her eyes, while her husband stayed awake, watching the door that quivered now and then under the breath of the night wind.