Emma’s POV
The clinic waiting room felt quieter than usual, or maybe it was just my heart pounding so loud it drowned everything else out. Richard sat beside me, thigh pressed to mine, hand resting on my knee in steady, reassuring circles. I kept one palm flat on my belly, like I could protect the tiny life inside just by touching it.
When the nurse finally called “Mr. and Mrs. Harlow,” we both stood at the same time. Richard squeezed my hand once before letting go, and we followed her down the short hallway.
Dr. Patel greeted us with her usual calm smile.
“Emma, Richard. A hearty congratulations to you both on expecting your first baby.”
I smiled back, remembering the last time we’d been here, how hard it’d been to leave. “Thank you, Dr. Patel.”
“Please, come in.”
She directed us t
