306 Labour

****4 MONTHS LATER****

Stella's abrupt awakening was triggered by a series of loud bangs reverberating at the entrance of the bedroom, accompanied by muffled shouts on the other side of the door. Panic surged through her veins as she turned her gaze to Matteo, still nestled within the crumpled sheets.

"Matteo, wake up!" Her voice trembled with urgency, desperation seeping through her words. "How can you sleep when—"

"She's in labor!" Damien's voice, strained with anxiety, pierced through the door. Stella's eyes widened, sudden realization crashing over her. The gravity of the situation settled heavily upon her as the anguished wails of Beatrix echoed down the hallway.

"Oh my God... Matteo! Wake up!" Stella's urgency escalated as she landed a sharp blow on his back, propelling herself to her feet. Matteo groaned and shifted on the bed.

"Why'd you have to hit me?" His voice was groggy, laden with irritation.