Brenda nodded, her earlier arrogance dissipating. “Yes, of course. I’ll take her to an exam room right away.”

Isabelle felt Michael’s reassuring hand on her back as Brenda led them down the hallway. The pain in her abdomen was still present, but the sense of relief from her husband’s intervention provided a comfort she desperately needed.

Once in the examination room, Brenda’s demeanor shifted entirely. “I’m sorry for the misunderstanding, Mrs. Laurent,” she said, her tone now professional. “The doctor will be with you shortly.”

Isabelle nodded, still shaken but grateful for Michael’s presence. As they waited, she squeezed his hand, whispering, “Thank you for being here. I didn’t know what to do…”