Hundred and Sixteen: Insurance policy.

THREE YEARS AGO

After puffing and panting, Claudia could finally rest. She has just delivered Marcia, their second daughter. Marcus was by her side trying desperately to hide his disappointment. But she could see right through him as through clear and spotless glass.

They had decided against knowing the child's gender before his or her birth, intent on enjoying the surprise. However, it was always going to be a gamble getting surprised when favor was tipped towards a particular side. Marcus wished for a boy. Claudia did too, she wanted balance and already she had been blessed with baby Clara.

He had been by her side throughout both of her pregnancies, the type of husband she had always wished for. Here he was, still there for her. But as she looked at him, she knew it was her turn. Though he did not have any hurting parts like she did, she understood that the part that was hurting him was the worst of all – the heart.