Bryce nodded, his heart breaking all over again.
“Are you okay? Did you stay overnight at the hospital?”
“I’m okay. There’s no internal damage, and it won’t affect future pregnancies. I was discharged after I received IV fluids.”
“I’m glad you’re okay,” was all he could manage as he kissed her temple, arms still holding her close.
“They still have her,” Beth whispered reverently.
Bryce nodded, understanding. He knew the protocol—genetic testing, formal reports, the clinical steps he’d walked countless families through in the ER. But this time wasn’t a chart or a case. This was their daughter. Emotionally and physically spent, Beth finally drifted into a peaceful sleep in his arms. Bryce stayed still, holding the fragile weight of her body against him. A quiet, aching relief filled his chest—especially after coming home to find her ready to walk away.
He hurt for her—for all she’d endured alone. He hurt for himself, grieving the little girl he’d never get to meet.
While Beth slept in his arms, Bryce quietly pulled out his phone and typed a message to her mom. He hated to share something so devastating over text, but it felt worse not to say anything at all.
?Bryce:
Got to the loft. Beth is okay physically,
but she’s hurting. Sorry to share the news
over a text, but we were expecting, and
while I was in Boston… Beth lost the baby.
We’ll share more when we’re ready.
Be praying.?
The reply came almost immediately.
?Sue:
Oh Bryce, honey—we are so sorry.
Take care of our girl.
Give her our love and let us know
if you need anything. We love you both.?
Bryce stared at the screen for a long moment, his mother-in-law’s words soothing the raw pain inside him. Then he snuggled Beth just a little bit closer.
When he caught himself dozing, Bryce carefully gathered her into his arms. She felt light. Too light. But safe.
He carried her to bed and settled her gently onto her side. Then, he climbed in beside her, wrapping his frame protectively around hers.
It was too early to sleep on a normal day.
But today wasn’t normal.
Nothing about this was normal.
Bryce tucked the blanket around them and closed his eyes, whispering a silent prayer.
She was still here. Still in his arms.
And for now… that was enough.
