Mary's p.o.v

Clutching my stomach, I lean on the bed post for support. I inhale and exhale a few deep breaths.

"Not now" I beg my unborn child who longs to embrace the outside world. I am only six months

pregnant. Premature labor has been a big growing fear of mine. If born right now, my son or

daughter wouldn't survive. "Mary, I can cancel the party if you are feeling unwell" Francis

offers. Another contraction seizes my body before I can respond to him. "Francis" I gasp

bending over in pain. Francis lays me down on the bed. I feel safe in his warm strong arms.

I recover quickly all thanks to him. I am well enough to attend the ball with him.