Too Early

Midori's uterine contractions remained regularly moderate to strong despite tocolytics.

The attending doctor went in and did an internal examination.

Dan was called back into the room after the examination.

"Mrs. Zhou, your cervix is now 6cm dilated, and your contractions are regular. You are now in preterm labor, and the delivery of the baby is inevitable."

"What?! No! It can't be! It's too early! How can my baby make it?" She held onto her husband's arm. "Dan..."

Seeing her in the brink of tears with fears in her eyes, Dan held his wife's shoulders with his arm. Then he toughened up. Looking at the doctor, he asked, "What are the chances for the baby?"