(Thomas's Chamber)
Lyla lay on the bed, against a mound of soft pillows that did nothing to ease her discomfort. Her skin glistened with sweat, damp strands of her hair clinging to her clammy forehead. Dark circles pooled beneath her eyes, a haunting contrast to her pale face. Tears glimmered along her lashes.
Thomas sat at the edge of the bed, one hand gripping hers, the other gently brushing stray hairs away from her damp cheeks. His usually composed face was tight with worry, his eyes darting from her face to her swollen belly.
“Easy now, love,” he whispered, pressing a tender kiss to her forehead. His voice trembled despite his attempt to sound calm. “Breathe slowly. I’m right here.”
A sudden, violent movement beneath Lyla’s skin made her body arch off the bed. She let out a strang
