I am yours FOREVER (A Zac and Tom story)

Unexpected cursing

*Tom*
I'm standing next to Meri, holding her hand tightly as we wait for the doctor to arrive. The room feels small, even though it's quite spacious, with both our families sharing it. I can feel the tension in the air, and my heart races with every passing moment.

Meri's grip on my hand tightens as another contraction hits. I wince in sympathy, but she just lets out a string of curses that would make a sailor blush. It's a side of her I haven't seen before, and it catches me off guard. She has always been the more composed of the two sisters, but the pain seems to bring out a whole new side of her.

My eyes drift over to Zac and Lumi. Zac is resting his forehead against Lumi's temple, whispering something in her ear. Lumi, who I have always known to be the more fiery and passionate of the two, seems surprisingly calm in this situation. It's a stark contrast to Meri's reaction, and it's oddly reassuring.

I look back at my fiancée, trying to figure out how to help her through this. "You doing great, love". I tell her, my voice shaking slightly. "Just breathe through the contractions".

Her eyes meet mine, and I can see the pain she is trying to hide. "I'm trying, Tom". She grits out through clenched teeth. "But it feels like someone is trying to rip my insides out alien style".

My heart aches for her, and I want to take away her pain. But all I can do is stand by her side and support her. "I know, love. But you are strong, and you can do this. We will get through this together".

She mumbles something under her breath about her doing all the work. I chose to ignore it, because she is right of course.

As if on cue, the door opens and the doctor comes in. She walks over to Meri, and I step back to give her space. I glance over at Zac and Lumi one more time, watching as they continue to comfort each other. I am grateful for their presence here.

I return to Meri's side, holding her hand once more as the doctor examines her. After a thorough check, the doctor announces that Meri is 5 cm dilated and in active labor, which means we are staying put.

The doctor changes her gloves and moves over to examine Lumi, while Zac stays close by. Meri's grip on my hand remains tight, and I offer her a reassuring smile as we wait for Lumi's results.

After a quick examination, the doctor gives Lumi the exact same news – she's also 5 cm dilated and in active labor.

Zac, looking concerned, asks the doctor, "How long do you think it might take for the babies to arrive ?"

The doctor replies, "It's difficult to predict, especially for first-time mothers. It could be anywhere from a couple of hours to half a day. But don't worry, I will check back in an hour. In the meantime, if there are any significant changes, please don't hesitate to call".

With the doctor's departure, a new sense of anticipation fills the room. I can't help but feel a mixture of excitement and anxiety as I imagine our lives changing forever with the arrival of our sons.

Meri's hand remains firmly in mine, and I can see the determination in her eyes as she prepares for what's to come. I lean down to press a gentle kiss on her forehead. "We got this, love". I whisper, hoping to provide some comfort.

Zac and Lumi exchange a knowing glance, and it's clear that they are thinking the same thing. Together, as a family, we're ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead and welcome our little ones into the world.

*Lumi*
As I lie here, trying to manage the pain from the contractions, I can't help but feel surprised by Meri's cursing. It's unlike her, and I feel sorry for Tom as she even blames him a couple of times.

I'm also taken aback by my own calm. Zac just has that effect on me... his voice seems to soothe the pain, making it more bearable. I'm so grateful that he is here with me.

Suddenly, I feel a wave of dizziness wash over me. Zac notices immediately and calls a nurse. "My fiancée has chronic leukemia and is feeling dizzy". He explains. "Is there something she can take to help keep her energy up ?"

The nurse nods and says, "I will consult with the doctor and see what we can do to help. We will make sure Lumi is taken care of".

I squeeze Zac's hand, thankful for his attentiveness and support. As we wait for the nurse to return with the doctor's advice, he keeps whispering to me, calming me.

The nurse returns shortly, bringing an electrolyte drink with essential salts for me, along with cold drinks for everyone else. "This drink will help replenish your electrolytes and essential salts, which should help with your energy levels". She explains. "And it won't affect the baby or the birthing process".

Zac assists me as I take a sip of the drink, his gentle touch comforting me. The taste is far from pleasant, but I know it's necessary.

Seeing my reaction, Zac goads me on. "Come on, Lumi, you can do it. Just think about how it's going to help you".

With his encouragement, I manage to drink more of the electrolyte solution.

Tom attempts to help Meri with her drink, but she hisses at him, saying she can drink by herself. I can't help but lovingly scold my sister, "Meri, be nice to Tom. He is just trying to help".

With tears in her eyes, Meri apologizes to Tom. "I'm sorry, it just hurts so badly". She explains, her voice strained. "I can't stop myself".

Tom reassures her with a soft smile. "It's okay, I know it's the pain talking. I'm here for you, no matter what".

The doctor returns to examine us, starting with me this time. As she examines me, I feel a bit uncomfortable, and I instinctively squeeze Zac's hand for reassurance.

Once she's finished with me, the doctor moves on to examine Meri. When she is done, she announces that we have both dilated another centimeter.

Tom, seeking some clarity, asks. "Does that give any indication of how much time we have left ?"

The doctor replies, "Based on the progress, I would estimate about 3 to 5 hours before it's time to start pushing. However, I can't give you any guarantees. Every labor is different, and things can change quickly".

With this new information, we steel ourselves for the hours ahead, knowing that our babies will be here soon. We continue to lean on each other for support, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.