29

As the days passed, Charlie's pregnancy continued to progress. He was now seven months pregnant, and the due date was fast approaching.

Xander was a doting partner, catering to Charlie's every need and whim. He helped Charlie with his exercises, made sure he ate healthy foods, and even sang silly songs to the baby.

Despite the challenges of pregnancy, Charlie was excited to meet his baby. He had always dreamed of being a father, and now that dream was finally within reach.

As the days turned into weeks, Charlie began to feel a sense of anticipation. He knew that the due date was approaching, and he couldn't wait to hold his baby in his arms.

And then, one night, it happened. Charlie felt a sharp pain in his abdomen, and he knew that labor had begun.

"Oh no," Charlie groaned, clutching his belly. "It's starting."

Xander was by his side in an instant, holding his hand and coaching him through the pain.

"Breathe, Charlie," Xander whispered. "Just breathe."

But Charlie couldn't breathe. The pain was too intense, too overwhelming. He felt like he was being ripped apart from the inside out.

And then, just as suddenly as it had started, the pain stopped. Charlie lay back, panting, and looked up at Xander.

"It's going to be okay," Xander whispered, smiling. "We're going to get through this together."

Charlie nodded, taking a deep breath. He knew that the pain would come again, but he was ready. He was ready to meet his baby.

Charlie's labor continued, with contractions growing stronger and closer together. Xander coached him through each one, holding his hand and whispering words of encouragement. Charlie's face was contorted in agony, his body drenched in sweat as he screamed through each contraction.

As the hours passed, Charlie grew more and more exhausted. The pain was intense, and he felt like he was being pulled apart from the inside out. Xander's face was etched with worry, his eyes wide with panic as he tried to comfort Charlie.

But Xander was there, holding him together. He wiped Charlie's brow, fed him ice chips, and reminded him to breathe. Charlie's screams grew louder, his body arching off the bed as he pushed through the contractions.

Drake and Lucas waited anxiously outside, their ears straining to hear any news. They had been waiting for hours, and the tension was starting to get to them.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the doctor announced that it was time to push. Charlie nodded, gritting his teeth. He was ready to meet his baby.

With Xander by his side, Charlie began to push. The pain was intense, and he screamed loudly, his body shaking with effort. Xander's face was white with worry, his eyes fixed on Charlie's face.

As he pushed, Charlie felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. He was doing this – he was bringing his baby into the world.

And then, just as suddenly as it had started, it was over. Charlie felt a rush of relief as the doctor held up his baby.

"It's a boy," the doctor announced, smiling.

Charlie and Xander gazed at their baby in wonder, tears of joy streaming down their faces. Charlie's screams of pain turned to sobs of happiness as he held his baby close.