𝙸𝚗𝚍𝚒𝚊

𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚛𝚝𝚢𝙾𝚗𝚎

THIRD PERSON POV

St. Andrews Memorial Hospital| St Andrew|
Monday| May 1, 2023|

The atmosphere within the Leslie residence was draped in a solemn and profound silence, seemingly echoing the weight of their shared grief. Each member of the family mourned in their own way, seeking solace amidst their individual struggles, trying to cope with the profound loss of a potential heir. A similar hush fell upon the friend group, as everyone grappled with the events that had unfolded, seeking understanding in the face of such an inexplicable tragedy.

As India gradually regained consciousness in the hospital room, she found herself in the presence of Asia and Natalie, who who were the only ones at the hospital. Natty, sitting in a chair, appeared half-awake, while Asia rested on a small couch nearby. India's mind was still clouded, and she instinctively reached for her belly, momentarily forgetting the recent events. As the memories rushed back, tears welled up in her eyes even before any confirmation was given, as she already harbored a deep intuition of what had taken place. Trying her best not to alarm her friend s, she fought to contain her sobs, but her emotions were too overpowering, waking the girls abruptly. They rushed to her side, all already on edge and sensitive to any disturbance in the heavy atmosphere.

United in solidarity, the two girls encircled their devastated friend, extending their heartfelt condolences and unwavering support, confirming the harrowing truth that India had dreaded. After a brief period of collective grief, Asia excused herself to make a call to the doctor, leaving Natalie as the sole source of solace for her friend. Overwhelmed by the sight of her best friend in such anguish, Natalie's own tears welled up, aware that her ability to alleviate the pain was limited. Nonetheless, she made a steadfast vow to be there for India in every possible way.

The doctor arrived, shedding light on the devastating situation, which left India feeling perplexed and bewildered. She mustered the strength to explain to the doctor that she had indeed purchased the pills, but had not taken them nor had access to them any longer. Her partner had taken them away, ensuring she couldn't find them. This revelation only deepened the enigma surrounding the tragic circumstances.

"Miss Sutherland... if your account is accurate, there exists a possibility that you may have inadvertently consumed the pills... I deeply regret that this has occurred, and I strongly advise seeking professional assistance to navigate through the emotional aftermath." India expressed her gratitude to the doctor, and a heavy silence engulfed the room as the doctor departed, leaving them to grapple with the weight of the revelation.

"...So you mean to say you didn't take them? I had assumed that perhaps you had a change of heart and chose not to inform me," Asia uttered, a mixture of confusion and sorrow tinging her voice.

India looked into Asia's eyes, her own filled with a mixture of sadness and frustration. She took a deep breath before responding, trying to convey the truth as clearly as possible.

"No, Asia, I swear I didn't take the pills," India replied, her voice laced with sincerity. "Zaire took the pills from me that day and he never gave them back.. I don't even know what he did with them... Plus I was with you guys the whole time, where would I have gotten time to take the pills then?"

Asia's expression softened, and a glimmer of understanding flickered in her eyes. She reached out and gently grasped India's trembling hand.

"I'm sorry, India. I didn't even realize as things have been all over the place since all this took place. I assumed the worst, and I should have trusted you," Asia admitted, her voice filled with regret. "Please forgive me."