Early summer in Los Angeles brought sweltering heat and the relentless chorus of cicadas.

Jenna Roland sat in the living room, her swollen belly making even the cool breeze from the AC ineffective against the discomfort of her third trimester.

Only seven days remained until her due date.

Ethan Roscente had issued a strict order forbidding her from leaving the house. Not that she had the energy to go anywhere even if he allowed it.

Her feet were puffy like dough, her lower back ached constantly, and the worst part—she had to pee every hour.

"Stella!" Jenna called toward the kitchen.

Stella Laurent hurried out, wiping her hands. "What's wrong?"

"Help me to the bathroom." Jenna tried pushing herself up from the couch.

Stella rushed to support her. "Didn't you just go?"

"The baby's pressing on my bladder." Jenna gave a tired smile. "The doctor said it's normal."

Nights were even worse. She'd barely fall asleep before the urge to pee woke her up, forcing Ethan to help her every time. His dark circles had deepened noticeably.

"Just one more week," Stella reassured her.

Back on the couch, Jenna exhaled heavily.

"Ethan hasn't been sleeping well," she murmured, rubbing her belly.

"I could stay with you at night," Stella offered. "That way he can rest."

Jenna shook her head. "We'd have to ask him first. You know how he is..."

"I'll cut some watermelon while you check with him." Stella tactfully retreated.

Jenna texted Ethan. Her phone rang immediately.

"Why call?" she answered.

"Didn't want you staring at your phone." His voice sounded exhausted. "Is Stella strong enough to help you?"

"I'm not that heavy!" Jenna huffed. "She helps me all the time."

A pause. "...Fine."

"Get some proper sleep tonight," she said softly.

"Business lunch today. Won't be home."

"Okay. Go easy on the drinks." Hanging up, she gazed blankly at the blazing sunlight outside.

The sweet aroma of watermelon drifted over as Stella returned with a fruit plate. "Did he agree?"

Jenna nodded, spearing a juicy wedge. The cool burst of flavor momentarily eased her discomfort.