“Promise me that you’ll call if anything happens,” I say, my voice firm yet laced with underlying nerves. “Contractions, pain, bleeding, water, anything. You call me. Okay?”

My hands are placed on your hips, thumbs lightly circling your tummy soothingly while my eyes search yours to make sure you’re taking me seriously.

You’re pregnant, very pregnant, with our first baby. I’ve already been away more than I would’ve liked, due to work, and I’m especially irritated (and worried) now that an impromptu business trip came up last minute when you could go into labor any day now.

I’m only supposed to be gone maybe 2 days, but you never know. It’s a bit of a nuisance that even though I took over my father’s company, I still don’t get to skip out on some things.

“I already told Niall and Amelia to check in on you periodically, so let them know if you need anything,” I inform you, my eyes still watching you intently.

“Please, for the love of God, just relax? Don’t strain yourself? If not for me, then for the little one,”