Lisa shifted restlessly on the musty cot, her brow beaded with sweat. A harsh gasp escaped her lips as another contraction gripped her body, this one more intense than the last.

"Father!" she cried out, panic lacing her voice. "Something's wrong!"

The cabin door burst open and Samuel rushed in, his face etched with concern. "Lisa? What is it, child?"

Lisa could only whimper in response as the contraction crested, stealing her breath away. Samuel was at her side in an instant, his calloused hand engulfing hers.

"Breathe, Lisa," he murmured, his voice a low rumble of reassurance. "Just breathe through it."

Gradually, the pain began to ebb, and Lisa...