บท 269: The Hunting Day

Dr. Connie, moved by Emma's distress, gently enfolded her in a comforting embrace. "Shh. Hang in there, Emma. You need to be strong. Bright and your baby need you now."

Emma's voice was barely audible through her sobs. "I want to die... I just want to die."

Dr. Connie's voice was soothing, filled with gentle resolve. "Shh, you can't leave yet. It's not your time. You have so much to live for. Your strength is needed now more than ever." Her words were meant to offer comfort and strength, a balm for Emma's overwhelming fear and sorrow.

Emma's voice trembled with pain. "But it hurts, Connie. It hurts so much."

As the sedative began to take effect, Emma's trembling lessened, and she slowly uncurled from her tight fetal position. Her breathing began to steady, though she still clung to the edge of her bed with a mixture of fear and relief.