40

I gave a headshake. I was unable to complete it. I was worn out to the bone.

Ryan said, "Sweetheart, you have to" as he appeared to be in anguish.

I said, shaking my head and crying.

"You can, yes. Since you're the toughest person I know, Marina, you'll be the one to succeed. Besides, I'm impatient for our son to see you." He gave a supportive smile.

I answered, "It's a girl."

Well, until he arrives, I won't be able to refute your claim. He smiled as he gently squeezed my hand and leaned over to kiss my wet forehead.

"Ok. I'm all set."

I gave Ryan one last push while looking at him, my face scrunching in agony. The moment our infant started crying, I turned to look at the doctor who was holding our child.

"It is a boy." She declared.

The infant was coated in bodily fluids, including blood. He was given to the nurse by the doctor so she could clean him up.

Ryan said with a big smile, "You did it."

It was unusual to see him so joyful. His gaze was downward.

I was showered wit