Helpless

RETH

Reth was only halfway through the cave when Elia's scream pierced the air and he almost shifted, his heart thundering, thudding in his chest, sputtering as if it would give out with the fear that shot through his entire body.

He flew through the rest of the cave and into the bedchamber to be met with a scene of horror.

Elia lay on the bed, her legs propped high on pillows under the furs. Her body writhed and her mouth was open as if she screamed, but she made no sound. Aymora was at her head, murmuring comfort and instruction, holding her hand and using the other to stroke her sweaty hair back off her face.

Jayah pushed past Reth who had frozen in the doorway, taking her position at Elia's side, throwing the furs back so she could peer at and touch Elia's belly.

Reth, speechless, helpless, his entire body shaking, blurted, "What can I do?"