She did not promise that every possible complication would be covered automatically.
Grant wrote notes while Melissa asked about time away from work.
The coordinator said an employment representative would need to address leave questions separately.
Melissa felt frustrated that no one person could answer everything.
Grant replied that this was precisely why he wanted to ask before they signed.
She told him she was tired of his tone.
He apologized and slid the pad toward her.
They left with more documents and fewer illusions.
At home, Melissa placed the packet beside the blue folder and stared at the growing pile.
She had imagined the process as a clear path with a beginning, middle, and end.
Instead, every answer seemed to uncover another office responsible for a different part of her future.
She called Charles and asked whether the family office could supply a written explanation of the medical arrangements.
He assured her that the family had always met its obligations.
Melissa asked again for something written.
There was a pause before he said his staff would send it.
The next day, an assistant delivered a summary that repeated the word comprehensive without listing any specific exclusions.
Grant asked whether they should wait for the insurer’s response.
Melissa said she did not want to delay Vivien’s chance any longer.
He reminded her that the Whitmores had the resources to wait for proper documentation.
She heard a criticism of her generosity where he intended a warning about risk.
They argued until Lily came downstairs asking why the adults were speaking so loudly.
Grant apologized to her immediately.
Melissa did too.
After Lily returned to bed, neither parent spoke for several minutes.
Melissa finally said she wanted the process to be about helping someone rather than creating a new problem for her children.
Grant answered that he wanted the same thing.
They could agree on the goal without agreeing on what the risk required.
The difference between those positions would eventually split their home.
Chapter 6: The Consultation
The fertility clinic occupied the fourth floor of a building decorated in soft colors meant to make difficult conversations feel gentle.
The doctor introduced herself as Dr. Anika Rao and explained that medical screening had to precede any decision.
She asked whether Melissa had completed previous pregnancies without serious complications.
Melissa admitted that Ben’s delivery had involved high blood pressure and a brief hospital stay.
Grant had not expected her to conceal that detail, yet he watched her eyes shift toward the paperwork.
