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.