Chapter 5 - The Labor of Strength
While panic erupted on the courthouse plaza, Madeline sat comfortably in the back of her mother's car, breathing slowly through a mild contraction.
"Are you alright, sweetheart?" Diane asked, glancing in the rearview mirror.
"I'm fine, Mom," Madeline replied, a wave of profound relief washing over her. "In fact, I've never felt lighter."
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By midnight, inside a quiet, softly lit room at Seattle Grace Hospital, Madeline held her daughter for the first time. The baby had clear dark eyes and a dusting of dark hair, looking peacefully around the room. Madeline kissed her tiny forehead.
"Welcome to the world, Clara," Madeline whispered. "Nobody will ever build a foundation on our tears again."
