The night sky outside the window slowly gives way to the first soft light of dawn, the new day quietly announcing its arrival.

It's the sound of the nurse entering the room that jolts them both awake. They blink groggily, disoriented for a moment before remembering where they are.

The nurse gives them a warm smile. "Good morning, you two. Sorry to wake you, but I need to check Erin's vitals now."

Jay rubs the sleep from his eyes, sitting up with a groan. "It's okay, we probably needed to wake up anyway."

Erin nods, her eyes still heavy with sleep, but she shifts to allow the nurse access to her.

The nurse quickly checks over Erin's machines and charts, making sure everything is stable. She then checks Erin's blood pressure and temperature before nodding, satisfied with her results.

"Everything is looking good. Blood pressure is a bit high, but within acceptable limits. How are you feeling?"

"Sore," Erin admits, shifting to find a more comfortable position. "And a little nauseous this morning."

The nurse gives her a sympathetic nod. "That's to be expected. We'll give you something for the nausea, and I'll get the doctor to see you a little later. He might want to keep you here for another night, just to be safe."

Erin nods, accepting the nurse's words. Jay is quiet, observing her with a concerned look.

The nurse looks between the two of them, a small smile on her lips. "You two make such a lovely couple," she observes.

Erin and Jay both blush slightly, their eyes meeting for a moment.

"Thanks," Jay replies gruffly, scrubbing a hand over his face. Erin just smiles, her hand finding his and linking their fingers together.

The nurse leaves after making a note on Erin's chart, leaving them alone once again. There's a moment of silence before Jay speaks up.

"You really alright? You look a little green."

Erin lets out a weary sigh and feigns a sickly smile. "Oh, I'm just peachy. Just a little nauseous, sore all over, and feeling like a pincushion thanks to all these needles stuck in me."

Jay's expression softens in sympathy, his hand giving hers a gentle squeeze. "I'm sorry. I know this sucks, but it's just temporary, okay? You'll be out of here soon."

Erin's free hand goes to her stomach, rubbing it gently. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, trying to relax. "The baby's okay, right? You said the doctor said everything was fine, but..."

"Hey," Jay says softly, seeing the worry etched on her face. "Everything is fine. The doctor said the baby's heartbeat was strong and steady. And the scans showed no sign of any damage. The baby is fine."

Erin nods, releasing a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. "Okay. That's good." Her hand continues to rub soothing circles on her stomach, as if trying to reassure both herself and the baby.

Jay watches her, his heart swelling with love for her and the child she's carrying. He reaches out and places his hand on top of hers, adding his own gentle touch to her stomach.

Late in the day, Jay pulls the car up to the curb outside their apartment building. He turns to Erin, who is looking pale and exhausted in the passenger seat.

"We're home," he says quietly, unbuckling his seatbelt.

Erin nods, her body still aching and her energy drained. "Good," she mutters. "I can't wait to get out of this damn car."

Jay smiles sympathetically, getting out of the car and walking over to Erin's side. He helps her out, his arm wrapping around her waist to support her. She leans heavily on him as they make their way into the building.

As Jay and Erin walk into the apartment, Layla spots them and squeals with delight. She comes running over, her little arms outstretched. "Mama! Dada!"

Erin stoops down, wincing as her sore body protests, and scoops Layla up in her arms. She hugs her close, burying her face in Layla's soft hair.

"Hey, baby. I missed you."

Jay smiles at the sight, his heart feeling lighter. He reaches out and ruffles Layla's hair affectionately. "We both missed you, kiddo."

Layla babbles happily, wrapping her tiny arms around Erin's neck. She pulls back, looking at Erin's face intently. "Mama, what happen? You look all tired and messy."

Erin laughs softly, touched that Layla is observant enough to notice her fatigue. "I'm just a little tired, baby. But I'll be okay. Don't worry about Mommy."

Layla pouts, her little hand patting Erin's cheek. "You rest, Mama. I keep you safe."

Jay watches the exchange, his heart swelling with love for his girls.

Erin's heart melts at Layla's little declaration. "I know you will, sweetheart. Thank you."

She carries Layla over to the couch and carefully settles down, placing Layla on her lap. The little girl snuggles into her mother, her small hands resting on Erin's stomach.

As Jay watches Erin and Layla, he notices movement out of the corner of his eye. Looking over, he sees Kim and Adam descending the stairs.

"Hey," he calls out, waving them over.

"She's alright," Jay replies, his gaze drifting back to Erin and Layla. "Just exhausted. They let her go home today, but she's still sore and nauseous."

Kim nods, her expression sympathetic. "That's to be expected. I'm glad she's home, though. It's always better to recover in your own place."

Adam puts an arm around Kim's shoulders, his eyes glued to Layla, who is still cuddling with Erin.

Jay spots Erin attempting to get up and quickly steps in. "Hold on, hold on," he says, putting a gentle hand on her arm. "Where do you think you're going?"

Erin pouts, clearly annoyed at being thwarted in her attempt to move. "I was just going to the kitchen. I'm thirsty."

Jay shakes his head, his tone stern but affectionate. "Nope. You're not supposed to be moving around too much. The doctor said bedrest."

Erin huffs, her expression petulant. "I'm not some fragile doll, Jay. I can move around a bit. God, you're acting like I'm going to fall apart any second."

Jay's expression softens slightly, but he remains firm. "I know you're strong, babe. But you just got out of the hospital. You need to rest and let your body recover. It's not optional."

Erin grumbles, her arms crossed over her chest, clearly frustrated. "Stupid doctor, what does he know anyway? He's treating me like I'm some delicate flower that will crumble at the slightest movement."

Jay raises an eyebrow, amused at her stubbornness. "That 'stupid doctor' is the one who just saved your life, so I think he knows more than you do."

Jay's smirk falters, surprise etching onto his face as Erin suddenly bursts into tears. Her tough demeanor crumbling, her shoulders shaking with sobs.

"Jesus, Erin, what—" He starts, taken aback.

Erin covers her face with her hands, her body racking with sobs. She's been holding everything in for so long, and the floodgates have finally opened.

Jay quickly sits down beside her, wrapping an arm around her shoulder. "Hey, hey, shh, it's okay," he murmurs, pulling her close. "Just let it out, it's okay."

Layla stands a few feet away, her eyes wide and teary as she watches Erin cry. Kim and Adam are just as surprised by the sudden outburst, both of them standing back and watching as Jay tries to calm Erin down.

"Mama, why you crying?" Layla whispers, her voice trembling. She inches closer to the couch, her little hands fidgeting.

Erin lifts her head, her face tear-streaked and her voice choked with emotion. "It's okay, baby, don't be scared. Mommy's just...just tired and sad right now."

Layla takes a couple more small steps forward, her small hand reaching out to touch Erin's knee. "Don't be sad, Mama," she says softly, her own eyes watery.

Erin's heart breaks at the sight of Layla's tear-filled eyes. She reaches out and pulls Layla closer, lifting her up onto her lap. "I'm okay, baby," she whispers, her voice still shaky. "Mommy's just having a rough day."

Layla cuddles into her, her small arms wrapping around Erin's neck. Her little face buries into Erin's shoulder, and she mumbles, "I love you, Mama."

Erin hugs Layla tighter, her heart swelling with emotion. "I love you too, sweetheart," she murmurs, her voice still thick with tears. She presses a kiss to Layla's head, trying to steady her breathing.

Jay looks between Layla, who's still clinging onto Erin, and Kim and Adam, who are awkwardly standing nearby. He notices Erin's labored breathing as she attempts to control her tears and decides it's time for a change of scenery.

"Hey," he says quietly, addressing the group. "Why don't we go for a walk or something? Fresh air might do us all some good."

Kim and Adam nod in agreement. Layla lifts her head from Erin's shoulder, her eyes still shiny with unshed tears.

"We go outside?" she asks, her voice hopeful.

"Yeah," Jay replies, his tone reassuring. "We'll go outside for a bit."

Erin looks at him, her eyes red-rimmed and weary, but she gives a small nod. "A walk sounds good," she manages to say, her voice raw from crying.

Layla cheers excitedly, already squirming to get down from Erin's lap. Kim and Adam move forward, helping Erin up from the couch and steadying her when she sways slightly.

"Easy," Jay cautions, gripping her elbow. "Take it slow."

Erin nods, her cheeks still flushed from crying. "I'm fine," she insists, even as her legs buckle slightly. She holds onto Jay, letting him support her as she takes a few cautious steps towards the door.

Jay keeps a firm hold on her, his arm around her waist as they slowly make their way out of the apartment. Kim and Adam fall into step behind them, holding Layla's hands to keep her from running ahead.

The fresh air hits them as they step outside into the cool evening air. Erin takes a deep breath, her body relaxing slightly. Layla looks around excitedly, her eyes wide as she takes in her surroundings.

As they start to walk, Erin begins to feel a little dizzy. The bright city lights are suddenly overwhelming, her eyes struggling to adjust. She leans more heavily on Jay, a moan escaping her lips.

"You okay?" Jay asks, noticing her sudden change in demeanor. He tightens his grip around her waist, keeping her close.

After a few more minutes of Erin vomiting, her body finally relaxes, and she leans against Jay, weak and exhausted.

"Okay, I think it's time to get you back home," Jay says, his tone firm but caring. "You need to lie down."

Erin nods weakly, her energy spent. She wraps an arm around Jay's shoulder, letting him guide her back towards the apartment.

The others follow silently, the atmosphere tense and heavy with worry. Layla keeps her tiny hand clutching Kim's, her eyes never leaving Erin.

As they walk into the apartment, Jay helps Erin over to the couch, gently lowering her onto it. She sinks into the cushions, her body boneless and pale. Her eyes are closed, her breathing labored.

Jay stands back, his face etched with worry. He looks at Kim and Adam. "I'm gonna call my brother, see if he can come take a look at her."

Adam and Kim nod their agreement. Adam picks Layla up, keeping her distracted from the situation.

Jay fishes his phone out of his pocket and dials his brother's number, mentally praying that he'll pick up.

The call rings a few times before the line clicks open, and Jay hears a familiar voice on the other end.

"Hey, man. What's up?"

"Will, hey," Jay says, his tone urgent. "I need you to come over. It's Erin, she...she threw up, and she's been dizzy on and off. She just looks terrible, man. I don't know what to do."

Will's tone immediately shifts to seriousness. "Okay, I'm on my way. I'll be there in 15 minutes. Don't let her fall asleep or move around. And keep her hydrated. I'll bring my bag."

"Got it," Jay replies, his heart rate still elevated but relieved that his brother is coming to help. "See you soon."

He hangs up the phone, his gaze returning to Erin, who hasn't moved from her spot on the couch.

"Will's on his way," he tells the others, trying to keep his voice steady. "He'll be here soon."

He squats down next to the couch, his hand gently pushing a few strands of hair away from Erin's sweaty forehead. "You heard that, babe? Will's gonna look at you, okay? Just try and stay awake for now."

Erin opens her eyes slightly, her gaze dazed but focused. She gives a small nod, her voice barely above a whisper. "Okay," she mutters, her throat raw from vomiting.

Jay gives her a tight smile, his heart clenching at her pale, exhausted face. He grabs a nearby water bottle and holds it to her lips. "Small sips," he instructs, tipping the bottle up slightly.

Erin manages a few small sips, her body too tired to resist. The cool liquid feels soothing on her raw throat, and she swallows gratefully. Her eyes flutter closed momentarily, but she forces them back open, remembering Jay's words.

"That's good," Jay encourages, putting the water bottle aside. "Just a little more, okay?"

He's just about to reach for the water again when a knock on the door interrupts him. He rises to his feet, crossing the room to open the door, letting Will in.

Will strides into the apartment, his medical bag in hand. He takes in the scene with a trained eye, his demeanor immediately shifting into professional mode. "Okay, give me a rundown of everything that's happened."

Jay quickly fills him in on Erin's symptoms, from the dizziness to the vomiting. "It just seems like she can't keep anything down," he concludes, worry etched across his face. "And she can barely move without getting dizzy."

Will nods as he listens, his eyes roaming over Erin's still form on the couch. He sets his bag down on the coffee table and begins to pull out various medical instruments. "Erin, I'm gonna take a look at you now, alright?" he says gently.

Erin nods weakly, her eyes fluttering open as she tries to focus on Will. She watches as he begins to examine her, his hands cool and clinical on her skin.

Will checks her pulse, listens to her heart, and takes her temperature. He shines a light in her eyes, checking her reflexes, and asks her a series of questions. "When did the dizziness start?" he asks.

"It started this afternoon," Erin replies, her voice raspy. "I was fine this morning, but then...then everything just started spinning."

Will nods, making a note in his chart. "And the nausea? When did that start?"

"After I started feeling dizzy," Erin answers. "I couldn't keep anything down. I just keep throwing up."

Will looks up from his notes, his gaze fixed on Erin. "And how far along are you?" he asks, his voice gentle.

Erin looks at him blankly for a moment, her tired mind struggling to process the question. Then her eyes widen slightly in realization, and she replies softly, "I'm...I'm thirteen weeks pregnant."

Will nods, understanding lighting up his face. He looks over at Jay, who's hovering anxiously nearby. "I think we have a pretty good idea of what's going on here," he says, his voice reassuring.

Jay looks at him, his heart pounding. "What is it? What's wrong with her?"

"It's a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum," Will explains. "Essentially, she's experiencing severe vomiting and nausea during pregnancy. It can be pretty debilitating."

Jay's worry creases his brow. "Is it serious? Will she be okay?"

Will nods reassuringly. "It's serious, but it's not deadly. It can just be very uncomfortable and draining. We'll get her fluids and some medication to help with the nausea, and hopefully, that will alleviate some of the symptoms."

"But...the baby?" Jay asks, his voice tight with worry. "Is the baby okay?"

"The baby will be just fine," Will reassures him. "This condition doesn't harm the baby in any way, it just makes the pregnancy much more difficult for the mother."

Jay visibly relaxes, his shoulders lowering as the fear eases. "Okay, that's good."

Meanwhile, Erin lets out a small sigh, relief washing over her. "So I'm not dying?" she asks with a tired smile.

Will chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "No, you're not dying," he assures her. "You're just pregnant and very unlucky."

As if cued by Will's last words, Layla, who has been quietly watching from the side, lets out an excited squeal. "Mama's having a baby!" she exclaims, clapping her little hands together.

Erin laughs weakly, her hand reaching out to pat Layla's head. "Yeah, sweetheart, Mama's having a baby."

Jay grins, his heart warming at the sight of Layla's innocent excitement.

Erin and Jay are in bed, the room illuminated only by the soft glow of the streetlights filtering in through the blinds. Erin can sense the tension in Jay's body next to her, the way his breaths are coming a little too fast.

She rolls onto her side, propping herself up on her elbow to look at him. "Jay, what's going on? You've been quiet since everyone left."

Jay lets out a deep breath, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. "It's just...my dad called earlier," he says, his voice tight. "He asked to see Layla."

Erin's eyes widen in surprise. "Oh," she says softly, her hand instinctively reaching out to rest on his chest. "What did you tell him?"

"I told him I'd get back to him," Jay replies, his jaw clenching. "But I don't know if it's a good idea."

Erin shuffles closer, pulling Jay into her chest and wrapping her arms around him tightly. "Come here," she murmurs, her voice soft and soothing. "Close your eyes and just feel my heartbeat."

Jay does as she says, closing his eyes and resting his head against her chest. He focuses on the steady thumping of her heart, the rhythmic sound grounding him.

Erin's heart aches for him, her arms tightening around him. "I know, honey," she murmurs, pressing a kiss to the top of his head. "But he's her grandfather. She deserves to know him."

"I know that," Jay replies, his voice tinged with frustration. "I just...I just don't want her to get caught up in his messed-up world. He's not a good person, Erin."

"I know he isn't," Erin agrees gently. "But that doesn't mean Layla can't know him. Maybe he's changed. Maybe he wants to make amends."

As he speaks, Jay's voice trembles slightly, his emotions getting the better of him. He buries his face into her neck, his breaths coming in shaky gasps. Erin rubs her hand down his spine, her touch slow and comforting. "It's okay," she whispers.

"Just let it out, baby. I'm here for you."

Jay lets out a shuddering sigh, the dam breaking as he allows his emotions to escape. He lets himself be vulnerable in her arms, tears prickling at his eyes and wetting her skin.

"Sshhhh," Erin soothes, her voice a soft whisper in the dark. "It's okay, Jay. I've got you."

She lets him cry, her hands running over his back and through his hair, her body providing a comforting warmth against him.

Erin stirs gently and notices that Jay is still awake, staring vacantly at the ceiling. She knows he's still ruminating on the conversation about his dad.

Gently, she stirs him from his thoughts. "Baby," she murmurs, her voice soft and warm in the silence. "Let me get you ready for bed."

Erin helps him into a pair of loose sweatpants and a t-shirt, her movements efficient and loving. When she gets him back into bed, she wraps the blankets tight around him, cocooning him in warmth and security.

As she tucks him in, she notices the tension still lingering in his body, the tightness around his eyes that hasn't disappeared. She climbs into bed next to him, her body fitting against his like a puzzle piece.

She pulls him close, his head resting on her chest as he had done earlier. Her fingers run through his hair, massaging his scalp. "Close your eyes," she instructs him gently. "You need to sleep, baby."

Jay nods again, his eyes fluttering closed under her soothing touch. His body relaxes under the ministrations of her hands, the tension slowly seeping out of his muscles. The steady beat of her heart beneath his ear is a lullaby, luring him towards sleep.

As Jay finally succumbs to sleep, his breathing deep and even, Erin continues to run her hand through his hair, her own eyelids growing heavy. The rhythm of his breaths and the warmth of his body against hers, it all slowly lulls her into a state of deep slumber.

Her own breaths become slow and steady, matching the pace of his own. Her hand comes to a rest on his head as her eyes close, and she drifts off into a peaceful sleep, the soft sounds of their breathing intertwining in the darkened room.

I added a bit of Erin getting emotional in this chapter and the next few chapters will be about Layla visiting Pat.