"I want my children, and I won't repeat myself!" Lily looked around sternly. "I know you can hear me!"

A doctor, relaying Alexander's message, stepped forward. "You've given birth to a boy and a girl. Both are safe and sound, so don't worry. However, as they were born prematurely and have congenital deficiencies, they're in the neonatal ward for observation. We'll bring them to you once their condition stabilizes."

Lily stared, unconvinced. "Is that the truth?"

"It is," another doctor replied. "What matters now is that you take care of yourself. It's the only way you'll see your children."

"I don't believe you! I want to see them now!" Lily stiffened, her voice sharp. "I'll kill myself if I don't see them."

The doctors exchanged a look. "Ma'am," one said hesitantly, "we need to request approval."

"Do it! I'll wait!" Lily refused to compromise, knowing the decision wasn't theirs but using the threat to gain leverage.

The doctors left. Alone, Lily surveyed the bare room—an IV stand, monitoring equipment, nothing else. No chair, no stool. This wasn't an ordinary hospital ward; it was a private one, clearly prepared just for her.

If this room is only for me, and we're not in a regular hospital, how can there be a neonatal ward? Besides, even though I gave birth prematurely, it was near full term. How can my children have congenital deficiencies? And they were always fine during prenatal screenings. This is just an excuse.

Pain and exhaustion gnawed at her; she felt a trickle of blood from her surgical wound. But sheer willpower kept her going. This was her only chance to negotiate.

After a while, the doctors returned, each carrying a baby. "Mrs. Russell," one said, "we've brought your babies for you to see, but you're unable to care for them in your current condition."

Lily longed to rise but couldn't. The doctors moved closer, allowing her a better view. The babies had tiny noses and mouths, sleeping soundly, far calmer than in her womb. Yet, she knew—instinctively—they were hers. A mother's intuition, perhaps, or a primal bond.

"Let me—"

She reached for them, but the doctors stopped her. "You're not well enough to hold them. Rest assured, we won't harm them."

"Why should I trust you?" Lily's gaze was cold, but her touch on their faces was gentle. Taking a deep breath, she said, "I want to see your boss."