As I opened the door of the spare room I found Mary lying in bed, her hair unbound, her normally enchanting emerald green eyes dim; her skin was pale, and it was hard to tell if the beautiful regal glow that normally always surrounded her ever existed.

"William…"

I walked over the side of the bed and took her hand in mine. Her strong, confident grip hand changed to a weak hold, suggesting fatigue and uncertainty. Kneeling down beside Mary, I placed my right hand on her forehead, giving her a reassuring kiss.

"It's going to be all right Mary."

"I know. I'm just nervous. I could have miscarried today." She murmured.

"But you didn't…"

"No, no I didn't." Mary replied with a sigh. "I'm just stressed out. With Alastor's return and the fact that I'm in my third trimester…"

"Mary, you needn't worry about those issues."

"But I do William. They concern my family."

"Right now you need to rest and relax. I don't want you getting yourself into a strop."

"I'm not in a strop."

"William, please; I'll have more than enough time to relax, unfortunately."

I sighed.

"Look Mary, I know it isn't going to be easy. But I'm here for you."

Mary cast me a tired smile.

"Thank you."

I grinned, stretching out on the bed next to her.

"You're welcome. I love you."