Before Joanne could even process it, a deep, radiating pain clutched her abdomen. She let out a small cry, gripping the side of the couch for support.
Fluffy, their little watchdog, barked furiously from near the door. Within seconds, Robert appeared, alarmed.
"Are you okay?" he asked, his eyes wide with panic as he caught sight of her pale face.
"It's time," she said through clenched teeth, steadying herself.
She turned toward the stairs, thinking she needed to grab her hospital bag, but Robert was already moving.
"I'll get it," he said, vanishing up the steps like a man on a mission.
By the time she reached the porch, he had the keys and the bag in hand. "I'll pull the car around!"
Joanne stepped outside, her hands pressed protectively over her stomach. The fresh air hit her face, and she bit down a wave of fear. Jeffrey had been with her through every little ache and craving. Of all days, today had to be the one he wasn't beside her.
