CHAPTER 18

A LIFE FOR A LIFE

By this time , her body was failing rapidly. She could barely move without assistance, and the pain had become almost unbearable. Her doctors urged her to schedule a C-section immediately, warning that waiting any longer could result in tragedy.

Grace finally agreed, her resolve wavering as she realized how much her struggle was affecting Ethan.

"I'm sorry," she whispered one night as they lay in bed.

"For what?" Ethan asked, his voice thick with emotion.

"For putting you through this. For leaving you to raise her alone."

Ethan pulled her into his arms, his tears falling freely. "You have nothing to be sorry for, Grace. You're the strongest, most incredible person I've ever known. And no matter what happens, I'll make sure she knows that."

Grace nodded, her head resting against his chest. "I just wish I could stay. I wish I could see her grow up."

"You'll always be with her," Ethan said, his voice trembling. "In her heart. In mine. She'll know you, Grace. I promise."

The day of the scheduled C-section arrived, filled with a mix of dread and hope. Grace was wheeled into the hospital, her frail body resting against the cool sheets of the gurney. Ethan stayed by her side, gripping her hand as though letting go would somehow make her slip away faster.

The doctors and nurses prepared her for the surgery, their voices calm but their eyes heavy with understanding. Everyone in the room knew what this procedure meant. It wasn't just about delivering a baby—it was about holding on to the fragile threads of a life unraveling too soon.

Ethan leaned down and kissed Grace's forehead. "You're going to meet her today," he whispered, trying to keep his voice steady.

Grace smiled faintly, her hand brushing against his. "Ethan, if something happens—"

"No," he interrupted, his voice breaking. "Don't say that. You'll be here. You'll hold her. You'll see her smile."

Grace looked at him with eyes full of love and sorrow. "Promise me you'll tell her how much I love her."