CHAPTER TWENTY – MORNING SICKNESS

Nausea was back again, rolling in like a rogue wave threatening to capsize Madison. She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to ride it out. A week of marital bliss had been rudely interrupted by this relentless illness, a stark reminder of the tiny miracle growing inside her. "Ethan?" she croaked, her voice raspy. Muffled sounds came from the kitchen, followed by the clinking of glasses. A moment later, Ethan appeared at the bedroom door, concern etched on his handsome face. "Hey, love," he said, his voice soft. "How are you feeling?" He knelt beside the bed, placing a cool hand on her forehead. His touch, usually a source of comfort, seemed magnified, intensifying the throbbing pain in her head. "Not good," she admitted, forcing a smile that felt more like a grimace. Another wave of nausea hit her, and she dashed for the bathroom, barely making it in time. Ethan followed her, his presence a silent reassurance even behind the closed bathroom door. Minutes later, feeling drained bu