The baby arrived a week early but without undue delay. At the hospital, Alexis was quickly attended by an obstetrician who, after examining her, announced, "She's six centimeters dilated. Get ready for delivery."

The doctor, familiar with the Fowler family, leaned over and reassured Alexis, "It's going well. The baby's head is a manageable size, and we've received the special plasma supply."

She tactfully paused, avoiding any inappropriate comments.

Amidst the pain, Alexis figured that the blood was donated by Leonel, who had it drawn regularly every month.

Caught in a haze of discomfort, her mind drifted through a myriad of memories with Leonel- both joyful and painful.

After a moment, the doctor asked softly, "Would you like someone with you during the delivery?”

Previously, Leonel had been by Alexis' side when Daniel was born. Now, despite their divorce, Leonel was the father and he waited just outside.

Under the stark light of the delivery room, Alexis, resting her face against the pillow, gently shook her head, tears slipping from the corners of her eyes.

The doctor softly touched Alexis' cheek and whispered, "I'll step out for a moment to speak with your parents."

Alexis nodded in agreement.

Throughout, she made no inquiries about Leonel.

Exiting the delivery room, the doctor closed the door with a gentle click.

Outside, Rena approached the doctor with concern. “How is everything?"

With a comforting pat on Rena's hand, the doctor smiled. “She's doing well. I don't expect the delivery will take more than two hours, and the baby is quite lively. It seems she's eager to meet the world.”

Relieved, Rena expressed her desire to be present at the birth.

Suddenly, Leonel, his voice hoarse, interjected, "Mom, let me be with Alexis." Evelyn clung to his hand, her grip tight.

Rena faced a tough choice, but the doctor intervened, "Alexis has requested not to have anyone accompany her."

Leonel's gaze grew distant as he leaned against the wall, staring at the delivery room door that separated him from Alexis.

Suddenly, a woman's high-pitched scream echoed from the adjacent delivery room, a stark reminder of the pain childbirth could bring.

Leonel's complexion turned pale, his fingers trembling involuntarily.