Unremitting Love

Chapter 17

Somehow, everyone got there before us.

They're in the waiting room.

I'm connected to machines and fetal monitors.

They said the baby is in position, and now we have to wait for me to dilate.

I'm only dilated to two.

I told Daniel to tell everyone they can come in and see us.

Doctor Addison is staying in here with us.

I hear a soft knock on the door, and then Mama peeks her head into the room.

She opens the door, and everyone files in.

I'm at the peaceful break between contractions where I'm not in pain.

"How are you?" Mrs. Schmitt asks.

"I'm..." I shrug. "Impatient."

I left my coffee on the table.

A contraction hits. I shut my eyes, putting my right arm over my eyes, my left hand on my stomach.

"You're getting an epidural, right?" Roxy asks.

"No." I say through clenched teeth.

"Why not? All four of you, I had an epidural." Mama says.

"The whole process, including the healing, is much faster." I say, wincing. "And I want to feel it. My body is made for this. Plus, you have a bad back now."

Mama frowns.

"I suppose you're right."

The contraction passes. I sigh.

"I'm tired."

"I know." Daniel rubs my shoulder.

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They stayed with us, turning their backs when they checked my dilation.

The pain is so intense now. They're all still in here. I'm transitioning, so I'm shaking.

I'm lying on my side, gripping the handles of the bed. Daniel is standing, running his fingertips up and down my arms.

A strong contraction hits. I squeeze my eyes shut, gripping my nightgown at my stomach.

"You're doing great, love." Daniel says softly.

It passes.

"C-can you guys go back to the waiting room?" I whisper.

"Alright." Mama stands up.

"Next time you see us, you'll be out of pain and you'll have held baby Grayson." Harper says.

She squeezes my hand.

Everyone walks out.

They check my dilation.

"You're a nine and a half centimeters." Dr. Addison says.

"Can I push?" I ask.

"Not yet." She laughs. "You're so close."

Another one hits.

This one causes me to grip the bed as hard as I can.

"Oh god, is it too late for the epidural?" I moan.

"I'm afraid so." She says. "Here, lie on your back for me?"

Cringing, I roll over. Daniel holds my hand.