Part 2: The Wedding Vows Echoed While I Fought for My Daughter's First Breath

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The contractions came closer together.

Three minutes.

Then two.

Soon I couldn't tell where one ended and the next began.

Every time the pain eased, I dragged myself back to the locked door and slammed both fists against it.

"Help!"

"My baby is coming!"

"For God's sake, somebody hear me!"

The only answer was distant applause.

Through the thick walls, I could hear the officiant welcoming the guests.

The ceremony had begun.

I sank against the door, sobbing.

Caleb had promised he would never leave my side when our daughter was born. We'd spent months attending birthing classes together. He knew exactly how terrified I was of labor.