He entered the ICU behind the team. The room was filled with the sounds of machines. Isabella lay pale, bandages peeking out from under the sheet, assisted breathing marking a steady rhythm. Roman took her hand very carefully, as if her skin might break.

"Baby..." he whispered. "I'm here."

A technician arrived with the machine, followed by a radiologist with a calm voice and gentle hands.

"We're going to do an obstetric ultrasound," she explained. "It's quick. If at any time you'd rather leave,