Dr. Thorne’s office was as elegant as always. Soft music, comfortable chairs, everything designed to make nervous mothers-to-be feel at ease.

Liora felt anything but at ease.

She sat in the waiting room, her hand on her belly, trying not to think about the last time she’d been here. With Dashiell. His hand joining hers on her stomach, his face soft with wonder as they watched Atlas on the ultrasound.

“Mrs. Abernathy?” The nurse appeared. “We’re ready for you.”

In the exam room, Dr. Thorne greeted her with a warm smile. “How are you feeling?”

“Tired. Uncomfortable. Emotional.” Liora managed a weak smile. “So, normal for thirty weeks?”

“Completely normal.”...