On the day of the prenatal checkup, Ethan insisted on driving me to the hospital despite my attempts to hail a cab on my own.

"Elle, I'm the baby's father. Let me see him, please."

He gently placed his hand on my belly just as the baby kicked. My resolve softened.

When I habitually moved to the passenger seat and opened the door, I saw Cassie.

She had lost a bit more weight, but her eyes still sparkled. I froze, turning to Ethan. "What's this about?"

Cassie coughed weakly, her voice faint. "Ellie, please don’t be upset. I've been coughing a lot lately, and Ethie is worried about me."

"And...