Married to the Devil

25

As they rushed Pavel into the hospital, Pooh felt his heart sink when he saw Pavel's lifeless hands fall to his side. He could barely process the sight as they whisked Pavel away into emergency care.

Hours passed like an eternity for Pooh, filled with dread and uncertainty. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the doctors emerged from the emergency room, cradling a tiny newborn in their arms. Pooh's heart skipped a beat at the sight of his premature child, a mix of joy and sorrow washing over him.

"We managed to save your baby," one of the doctors began, their voice gentle yet laden with solemnity, "but about his mother... we are really sorry, Mr. Pooh."

Pooh's breath caught in his throat as the words sank in. "Is... is Pavel..."

The doctor nodded gravely. "He's still alive, but his condition is critical. His brain has been severely injured from the fall, and we cannot predict when or if he will regain consciousness, again".

Tears welled up in Pooh's eyes as he stared at the tiny bundle in the doctor's arms, a wave of conflicting emotions crashing over him. Joy for the new life he held, and devastation for the uncertain future without Pavel by his side.

"Can... can I see him?" Pooh asked hoarsely, his voice cracking with emotion.

The doctor nodded sympathetically. "Of course. Follow me."

Pooh was led to the intensive care unit where Pavel lay, connected to machines that monitored his vital signs. His face was pale and still, his body fragile under the sterile hospital sheets. Pooh approached slowly, his heart breaking at the sight of his beloved husband in such a state.

He reached out and gently took Pavel's cold, limp hand in his own. "Pavel... please, wake up," Pooh whispered, his voice trembling with despair. "We have a beautiful baby waiting for you."

Pooh stayed by Pavel's side, praying for a miracle, hoping against hope that Pavel would open his eyes and smile at him once more. The room felt suffocating with the weight of uncertainty and grief, but Pooh refused to leave. He would stay with Pavel, holding onto hope and love, for as long as it took.