Chen Wanqing was giving birth for the first time, and the delivery was proving to be somewhat difficult.
Even though her water had broken in the late afternoon and her contractions had started, she was only four fingers dilated by late at night. She lay on the delivery bed with a small pillow propped beneath her, a precaution to prevent the amniotic fluid from draining too quickly and endangering the baby.
Time became especially agonizing. Enduring wave after wave of pain, she bit her lips until they turned pale.
Xu Suying and Mrs. Zhao stayed by her side, frantic with worry, yet they tried hard to maintain a calm and composed facade.
"Everyone goes through this. The first delivery is always a bit slower," Xu Suying coaxed gently.
"Don't be afraid, Mom is right here with you. There are also two Imperial Physicians waiting outside. They said you're doing very well and will definitely have a safe delivery.
