Chapter 1098: Childbirth (2) A Call to Hannah

Susan was taken to the designated hospital. During the drive, Manuel had cautioned her about the possibility of premature labor. Knowing Hannah was alive would undoubtedly excite her.

Fortunately, he'd prepared meticulously. He'd not only brought Susan's physician, but he'd also pre-arranged everything with the hospital. A single phone call secured their immediate readiness.

Upon arrival, a large group awaited them. Susan was swiftly transferred to a wheelchair and rushed to the delivery room.

Until that moment, Susan had remained calm, despite her water breaking. But the overwhelming scene instantly unnerved her. She instinctively grasped Manuel's hand.

Manuel held her hand firmly, accompanying her into the delivery room.

The doctor instructed, "We need to examine Mrs. Johnson's cervical condition. Mr. Johnson, please wait outside. We'll call you if it's time for labor."

Manuel reluctantly released Susan's hand, but Susan clutched it, pleading, "Don't leave me."

"I'll be right outside," he reassured her.

"But I'm scared," she whispered, clinging to him.

"Don't be afraid," Manuel said, gently kissing her forehead. "We'll see our baby soon."

Susan looked at him hopefully before being wheeled away. Manuel's calm facade crumbled; he was deeply nervous.

Salem approached, offering comfort. He took Manuel's trembling hand. "Don't worry, Uncle Manuel. Auntie will be fine!"

Only then did Manuel notice Salem's presence. He'd been instrumental in contacting the hospital and others, and now he offered solace.

Manuel touched Salem's head. "Sal, you've been amazing."

Salem blushed at the praise. Manuel sighed, lamenting their incomplete family due to his mother's refusal to forgive his father. He touched Salem's head again and turned to the delivery room door.

After a time, a nurse emerged. "Mrs. Johnson's water has broken, and her cervix is dilated. She'll deliver tonight. You can accompany her during labor."

"I'll be there," Manuel replied immediately.

The nurse left. Manuel turned to Salem. "Sal, I'll be with Susan. Please wait outside until we're finished."

"Okay," Salem nodded obediently. He was remarkably mature.

"My phone's with you. Use it if you're bored," Manuel added.

"Okay."

"Promise you won't run around. Ask for help if you need anything," Manuel cautioned.

Salem readily agreed. Soon, medical staff summoned Manuel. He gave Salem further instructions before entering the delivery room.

Salem sat patiently in the corridor, attended by several people who kept a respectful distance. Bored, he picked up Manuel's unlocked phone. Manuel, prioritizing Susan's needs, had left it password-free.

Salem initially considered cartoons, but instead, he sent a voice message to his father: "Auntie Susan's giving birth. I'm here with Uncle Manuel."

There was no reply. He hesitated, then located a different number – Besse's.

He debated calling. It was late; would he disturb her? But she and Susan were close; she'd surely worry. He pressed call.

The phone rang twice.

"Hi, Manuel."

"Mom… Miss Besse, it's Salem."

Hannah's hand trembled. Salem's voice always affected her.

"Where are you?" she asked softly.

"At the hospital."

"What happened?" Hannah's voice sharpened with anxiety.

"Auntie Susan's giving birth. Uncle Manuel's in the delivery room; I'm in the hallway."

"Which hospital?"

"Are you coming?"

"Immediately."

"Okay. I'll send you my location."

Salem sent his location. Hannah replied, "Ten minutes."

"Okay, I'll wait."

Salem waited, his anticipation growing. He'd wondered when he'd see his mother again.

He paced, unable to contain his excitement. Then, he heard hurried footsteps. He turned and saw Hannah.

Without pause, Salem ran towards his mother, his small legs pumping furiously.