They had started to believe.

After months of trying. After two losses that had cracked something deep inside her. After all the waiting and hoping and soft, sad goodbyes… this one felt different.

The numbers looked good. High. Strong.

She let herself smile again. She let him rub her belly and talk to the tiny maybe-baby inside.

They booked the appointment.
They brought quiet excitement.
She wore a dress that made her feel soft and maternal.

The room was dim, cool.

She lay back, paper rustling beneath her, heart pounding beneath the surface.
The screen flickered. The tech said nothing at first.

___

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