Chapter 6 – The Drive That Changed Everything
Carol didn't wait for Ryan to move.
She rushed to Emily's side, wrapping one arm around her waist while reaching for her phone with the other.
"We're calling an ambulance."
Ryan stepped forward so quickly that he blocked the doorway.
"That's not necessary," he said sharply. "The hospital is only fifteen minutes away."
Emily gasped through another contraction, gripping Carol's hand until her knuckles turned white.
"I... can't..."
Carol stared at Ryan.
"Move."
Patricia hurried in from the garage, grocery bags still in her hands.
"What is all this shouting?"
"Emily's in labor," Carol snapped.
Patricia frowned instead of showing concern.
"It seems early."
"The baby is full-term," Carol replied. "She needs medical attention."
Ryan finally grabbed the car keys.
"I'll drive."
Carol hesitated. Every instinct told her not to trust him.
During the drive, Ryan barely spoke. Instead of heading toward the nearest hospital, he turned onto unfamiliar streets.
"Ryan," Carol said quietly, "where are you going?"
"The traffic app found a faster route."
Emily cried out as another contraction hit.
Carol looked out the window.
They weren't getting closer to downtown Columbus.
They were driving away from it.
"Stop the car," Carol demanded.
Ryan tightened his grip on the steering wheel.
"Relax."
Carol secretly dialed 911, keeping the phone hidden beneath her purse.
She whispered their location as softly as she could.
The dispatcher stayed on the line.
Minutes later, flashing red and blue lights appeared behind them.
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Ryan cursed under his breath.
For the first time since Carol had arrived, his calm mask finally cracked.
