Behind Closed Doors

Chapter 45

Emily sat quietly with Dr. Garcia in the waiting room, patiently awaiting her test results. Dr. Garcia noticed the worry etched on Emily's face and felt a deep sympathy for her. Emily seemed like a sweet woman who would never consider terminating a pregnancy, yet she clearly didn't want a child growing inside her. Dr. Garcia decided to start a conversation to ease Emily's mind.

"I'll drive you to our center myself tomorrow so you can register and start your treatment immediately," Dr. Garcia said. Emily touched her fingers together nervously as she listened.

"There's no need to be tense. The center is filled with women who have faced the same struggles as you—or even worse," Dr. Garcia added, placing her hand over Emily's reassuringly.

"What if... it doesn't work?" Emily asked, her voice laced with fear and curiosity.

"It will work," Dr. Garcia replied gently. "It's not an instant fix; it takes time, but you will definitely see improvements."

Just then, the lab technician approached them with a piece of paper in his hand. Emily quickly took it from him and opened it.

"The results are negative, ma'am," he said as she read the letter. Relief washed over her, and Dr. Garcia hugged her tightly.

"Thank you, Lord," Emily whispered embracing Dr Garcia's warmth.

"You see? This is good news. Everything will work out well," Dr. Garcia assured her, prompting Emily to smile and repeat, "Thank you, Lord."

****

Dr. Garcia walked into an office with Emily following behind. As soon as Mrs. Rose, the president, saw her, she stood up.

"Garcia!" Mrs. Rose exclaimed joyfully. Dr. Garcia went over and embraced the older woman.

"Mrs. Rose," she whispered as they hugged.

Emily watched them, her gaze lingering on the vibrant, elderly woman. She found herself zoning out again.

"Is this the lady you mentioned? Emily?" Mrs. Rose asked, snapping Emily back to reality. The frequent zoning out scared her. Why did it keep happening? Was it fear? Was it guilt?

"Yes," Dr. Garcia confirmed, turning to look at Emily.

"She's beautiful," Mrs. Rose said warmly, smiling at Emily.

"Indeed, she is," Dr. Garcia agreed, narrowing her eyes slightly.

"Emily, it's lovely to meet you. I'm Rose," Mrs. Rose said, extending her hand for a handshake. "I've heard about you. Please, have a seat."

Emily sat down next to Dr. Garcia. "Thank you," she murmured.

"I can imagine how heavy everything must feel right now. It's okay to feel uncertain," Mrs. Rose began, her voice kind and soothing. "First, let me assure you that you're not alone. Many of us here have either gone through similar experiences or have helped others who have. Our goal today is to help you feel supported and understood, and to take things one step at a time. Abuse can shatter our sense of self-worth, but I want you to know that you are not defined by what happened to you. You are strong, Emily, even if you don't feel that strength right now. Our first activity today will be a small support group session where you can listen or share—whatever feels comfortable for you. You'll meet women who've been where you are and have begun to heal. Their stories can offer you hope and encouragement."