Second chances Book 6/6

Chapter 18

The doctor had a closed face, a closed file in front of him on his desk. As a lawyer, that didn't intimidate Caity, it was a strategy she used too, inherited from her father's interrogations.

"I have your blood test results, the β-HCG hormone level tells us beyond any doubt that you are pregnant, Mrs. Hammonds.

— Are you sure of that? Should I do a urine test?

— Absolutely certain.

— And you used the sperm I gave you? It's not yours or that of a colleague?

— I assure you it is the one you brought.

— Thank you. What is the next step?

— Take an appointment for your first ultrasound, in seven to nine weeks.

— So that's it, I'm having a baby ?

— We are going to set up a schedule of appointments for follow-ups, to make sure that your pregnancy is going well. You have our contact details, don't hesitate if there is anything, listen to your body. You are quite sporty, I would ask you to slow down your pace, but don't stop, I will send you an exercise booklet that we recommend for pregnant women. Your body will change, Mrs. Hammonds, don't overdo the exercises to correct what you'll see.

— I'm aware of that, Doctor. It will be difficult, but I will.

— That's all for me then.

— Thank you."

Caity is impatient, feverish. No sooner is she in her car than she screams, banging on the steering wheel. Scrolling through her contacts, she stops at her mother's number.

"Hello, Mom," she said softly, a tear in the corner of her eyes hearing his voice.

"Hello my dear. Everything's good? You have a funny voice.

— Will you and Dad come home tonight?

— Of course. Are you sure everything is fine?

— Yes mom. I am pregnant. I need to talk to you about what will change in my life, starting today.

— How's that, pregnant? Pregnant by whom?

— Mom," Caity continues softly, "I'm pregnant, that's all. There is no who, there will be none. I need you.

— You'll never do anything like the others," Shanna sighs, "that's what makes you unique, my pretty princess. Did you tell dad?

— My mom first. Come at the time you want."

No sooner has she hung up than she calls her father, but the line is already busy.

"Hello sweetheart.

— Are you online with Mom?

— Yes.

— So?

— I'm happy.

— Mom will tell you, I will see you tonight.

— See you tonight, sweetie."

Even if her parents don't say anything, the information will leak out one way or another. Bethany is a little witchy around the edges, or very intuitive. The time to make peace has come. Her family knows that at the slightest inappropriate remark, at the slightest negative comment, she can leave their life definitively, in a snap of her fingers. Having time, she passes by the hospital to see Emily, who jumps on her neck upon hearing the news, promising to drop by and be with her during her pregnancy.

"I'm crying," smiled Caity, "it's my hormones, already?

— No," Emily laughs. "It's because you adore me!