As if the universe had decided to play a cruel joke on her, labor pains seized her.

She gripped her belly, focusing all her energy on calming herself. Summoning what strength she could muster, she answered Mitchel, "I can't get up. I need to rest a bit."

Mitchel's brows knitted together in concern.

"Your voice doesn't sound too good. I should come in and check." He began to tum the key in the lock, only to be stopped by Ariana's outburst.

"Don't come in! I'm not dressed yet." Pain had begun to paint a sheen of sweat on Ariana's forehead. She gently stroked her belly, hoping to calm the baby.