Does cervix always open slowly in advance?

My husband is taking a job where he'll have to drive out of town on certain week nights and be back by morning. I'm worried that my water will break while he's too far away to get to the hospital. I'm having a c section so once I'm in labor I'll have the baby for sure within a few hours. Last time I had a baby I never felt contractions and only knew I was in labor becuase my water broke. My doctor said once I reach the last several weeks she'll start checking my cervix. Will my cervix start opening in enough time for my husband to be able to take a vacay from work? Or is it possible I won't be able to predict it?