“Elena,” Julian began, his voice calm and professional, the tone he reserved for serious medical updates. “We ran a full panel while you were out. You’re severely malnourished and anemic. But the reason you collapsed is… you are drawing on every last reserve of energy to sustain a new life.”

I frowned, trying to process his words. “A new life? What are you talking about, Julian?”

He took my hand, his palm warm. “Elena. You are two months pregnant.”

The world tilted. ...