We Can Return

7)Crossroads of Fate

Krist's POV:

I stared at the ceiling of the room Gun had rented through Airbnb. I spent the whole night thinking about what would come next. Today, we were supposed to return to the clinic and undergo the procedure. Gun was determined to go through with it. New was terribly scared, but he was alone, and I felt the same way. I thought about finding a way out, but nothing came to mind. Then I remembered Michaela.

I had only seen my cousin Michaela once, at her father's funeral, my uncle. My father is the youngest child, and there is a fifteen-year age gap between him and his siblings, so my cousin is much older than me. Moreover, my parents are quite old-fashioned and still agree with the notion that Betas and Omegas are inferior. Michaela is a Beta, so she definitely didn't receive any Christmas cards from us. Although I only talked to her briefly, I remember her telling me that if I ever needed anything, I should reach out to her because she knew it must be tough at home.

I carefully got up and left the apartment, making sure not to wake the people sleeping inside. I stepped out onto the street, gathering my courage for a moment. Then I took a deep breath and dialed the number I remembered from the funeral. After a few rings, a familiar voice answered.

"Hello?"

"Hi Michaela, it's Krist. I don't know if you remember me, but we met at your father's funeral."

"Hi Krist, of course, I remember you. How are you?" Her voice sounded surprised but also concerned.

"Well, right now, not so good. I need to talk to you. I'm in a really tough situation and don't know who to turn to."

"What happened? Tell me." There was urgency and worry in her voice.

"I'm pregnant," I said, my voice breaking. "My boyfriend cheated on me, and now my parents are forcing me to have an abortion. They told me I can't come home if I don't do it. I'm completely lost and don't know what to do." Tears streamed down my face.

"That's terrible, Krist. You don't deserve this," Michaela said, and I could feel her heart heavy with compassion and pain for me. "Listen, I have an idea. I recently became a widow and have a big house in the USA." Her voice trembled a bit when she mentioned her loss, but she continued firmly. "What if you moved in with me? I can help you with the baby, you can finish school here, and forget all the worries at home. Those people aren't worth it."

"That sounds like a dream, but I'm an unmarked omega. What if they discriminate against me there?" My voice was full of fear.

"The USA is much more progressive. Discrimination is rare here. If you want to keep the baby, I'll help you raise it. You don't have to be afraid; you'll be safe," Michaela spoke with confidence and calm, but I could sense she was trying to suppress her own emotions to reassure me.

"Michaela, that's so kind. Could I really do that? And one more thing..." I hesitated, gathering my courage. "I met two friends who are in a similar situation. I know it's a big ask, but could they stay with you for a while until they get back on their feet?"

"Of course, Krist. You can stay with me as long as you need, and you don't have to worry about anything. And if your friends want to, they are welcome too. I'd love to have people around, and I've always wanted a big family," Michaela smiled, even though I couldn't see it, I felt her support. Her voice was now softer, full of hope and determination.

"Thank you, Michaela. I really appreciate it. I'll let you know soon," I felt a sense of relief wash over me.

"I'll be waiting. Take care, Krist," Michaela said, and I knew she had done the right thing. Her voice sounded calmer now, as if she had found a new purpose and goal.

When the call ended, I felt better. Suddenly, my phone started ringing again, and Singto's picture appeared on the screen. I declined the call and noticed he had been trying to reach me all night. I had a bunch of missed messages, but I didn't want to read them. I turned off my phone. I realized I was standing in front of a 7/11. I walked inside and asked for three new SIM cards at the counter. I want a fresh start. Neither I nor my child needs anyone from our old life.