That evening, she finally called Samuel. His face flickered onto the hospital screen, slightly pixelated, framed by the generic backdrop of a hotel room. He looked tired—but controlled, composed. Like he was prepping for a courtroom defense, not speaking to the woman who had just gone through labor alone.

And in that moment, Claire realized something had shifted. Not just between them—but inside her.

“Claire,” he began softly, “I’m sorry I couldn’t be there. The flights were impossible.”

She swallowed hard. “You missed it, Samuel. I screamed for you. I wanted you there more than anyone. And then… I get your message.”

His jaw tightened. “I sent the money so you’d have no worries while I’m away. And about the test—it’s not about you. It’s about certainty. Do you understand? I just… I need peace of mind.”

Claire’s heart crumbled at the careful detachment in his words. “Peace of mind? You think I betrayed you?”