The fear wouldn't leave her until the baby was born, they both knew that as surely as they knew the sky was blue. Still, Melody clung to him until her cries subsided enough for her to appear calmer. Even if her breaths were still punctuated by hiccups and her cheeks tear stained.

"Will you stay with me today?" She pleaded quietly, wholly prepared for him to reject her. He likely had to head into work or somewhere else that was now more important. But, Merlin, she hoped he would at least stay long enough for her to doze off.

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