Aliyah’s POV

The sterile scent of the hospital corridor clung to everything as the hours dragged on. My body felt heavy, anchored to the narrow bed by the IV line dripping fluids into my veins and the constant low hum of monitors tracking the baby’s heartbeat.

The bleeding had slowed to a faint spotting after the doctors administered medication and ordered strict bed rest, but every small cramp sent fresh waves of terror through me. The tiny life inside me was still fighting, the doctor ...