"Marcus Thorne had survived billion-dollar wars. But nothing prepared him for the night his world almost shattered."

Inside the examination room, Dr. Caldwell worked with focused precision.

Khloe lay on the examination table, her hands resting on her swollen belly.

"Can you tell me exactly what happened?" Dr. Caldwell asked gently.

Khloe took a shaky breath.

"She pushed me. Isabella. She was angry that I was there. She wanted me to leave. When I refused, she grabbed my arm and shoved me backward. I tried to catch myself, but I fell. I hit the floor hard."

Dr. Caldwell nodded.

"Did you hit your stomach?"

"I don't think so. I landed on my side. But the pain... it was immediate."

"The pain is likely from the impact. We need to check for placental abruption or any signs of preterm labor. But I want to assure you—we're going to do everything possible to keep both you and your baby safe."

Khloe closed her eyes.

"What about my husband?"

"He's right outside. We'll update him as soon as we know more."

Dr. Caldwell began the examination.

The ultrasound machine hummed softly as the wand moved across Khloe's abdomen.

She held her breath.

"We're looking for the heartbeat," Dr. Caldwell explained. "And we're checking the baby's position. So far, everything looks stable."

Khloe exhaled in relief.

"Is my baby okay?"

"I'm seeing a strong heartbeat," Dr. Caldwell confirmed. "The placenta appears intact. But we're going to monitor you overnight to make sure there's no delayed complications."

"What about the pain?"

"You may have some bruising from the fall. We'll give you something safe for pain management. But overall, the prognosis is excellent."

Khloe allowed herself to cry.

Tears of relief.

Tears of exhaustion.