Raegan's mind swirled in a haze of pain, memories of her grandmother and foster father flickering like distant lights in a storm. Their voices were tender and kind, calling out to her back from the brink.

“Raegan, Raegan..."

A lump formed in her throat, aching with longing for their comforting presence. Oh, how she missed them, yearned to be with them once more, regardless of anything else.

But amidst the turmoil, another voice broke through the haze. "Raegan, hold on..."

By now she felt exhausted. And the tiredness threatened to overwhelm her. But this persistent voice kept calling and calling. She thought how nagging.

But the persistent nagging seemed to be reviving her, little by little...

Inside the hospital, the harsh glare of the overhead ceiling lamp illuminated the bustling activity of doctors and nurses.

Amidst the urgency, a doctor approached the waiting area with a grave expression. "Where is the patient's family? We need someone to sign the operation agreement."

"I'm her brother. Let me handle it." Erick stepped forward, his voice tense with worry.

The doctor explained Raegan was in urgent need of a cesarean-section.

“Is it... Is it dangerous?" Erick hesitated, still clutching the pen.

With grave seriousness, the doctor delivered the stark reality. “Her water broke some time ago, and there's no amniotic fluid left. Every moment counts now, or the baby could suffocate. And she's about to give birth. Why isn't anyone by her side?"

Erick remained silent.

The doctor, without further words, disappeared behind the door, clutching the signed operation agreement.

Outside, only Mitchel and Erick lingered in the tense silence.

Mitchel's gaze bore into Erick, sharp as a dagger. “Where's Stefan? Is this how he acts as a husband?"

Erick's eyelids fluttered, a nervous tic betraying his unease. How could he admit to Mitchel that Raegan's wedding with Stefan was a facade, a sham they maintained for appearances?

Just as Erick was about to conjure up an excuse, Stefan rushed in, his expression fraught with worry. "Where's Raegan?"

Before Erick could respond, Mitchel's fist connected with Stefan's jaw with a resounding thud.

Stefan staggered back, heavy shock etched on his face.