Time passed slowly until at last the door of the operating room opened.

I rushed forward in one step.

“Doctor, how’s the mother?”

The doctor hadn’t answered yet, but my gaze had already locked onto Michael, who was holding a tiny baby in his arms.

The joy of becoming a father instantly overwhelmed me, sweeping away the irritation I’d felt about Michael being inside.

“Give me the baby.”

I reached out my hands, but Michael completely ignored me and walked past, holding the child.

My face darkened, and I was about to follow, when Sarah’s weak voice came from behind.

“What are you standing there for? Hurry up and push me back to the room.”

I stopped in my tracks and looked at her pale face, moving closer to comfort her.

“You’ve worked so hard, honey. I wanted to go in with you, but the doctor called for Michael.”

Sarah’s expression flickered unnaturally, and she gave a couple of forced coughs.

“Maybe the doctor made a mistake. It doesn’t matter—you were still here waiting for me.”

Though I found it strange, I didn’t press further, mindful of her condition.