173: Purpose Fulfilled

Eight months later…

Eric’s phone was ringing and he was in the middle of an important meeting, discussing a new business venture with key stakeholders. His phone's vibration on the polished oak table drew everyone's attention. Glancing at the screen, he saw the hospital's number and felt his heart leap into his throat.

"Excuse me, I have to take this," Eric said, his voice tight with barely contained excitement. He hurried out of the conference room, his footsteps echoing down the hallway.

"Mr. Radcliffe, your wife is in labor. You need to come to the hospital immediately," the nurse's voice was calm but insistent.

Eric didn't need to be told twice. He dashed to his car, barely registering the concerned looks from his colleagues as he sped out of the parking lot. His mind raced faster than the car, thoughts of Emily and their unborn child filling his every moment. The city blurred past him as he moved through the morning traffic, his hands gripping the steering wheel tightly.

Arriving