We all need friends like Ashley.

(ARIELLE'S POV)

I was getting vegetables and other cooking utensils ready when I felt a jolt in my stomach. I winced and grabbed the kitchen island, waiting for the wave to die down. I knew it would because it was a feeling I was familiar with.

The feeling had started three days back, and at first, I had attributed it to what I ate. But it happened again, and again, and it's the third day already.

I didn't read much meaning to it because it wasn't painful, just a sharp jolt that rippled through my abdomen like a tide of waves. And seconds later, it was gone like it never happened.

Deciding it was nothing serious, I didn't bother telling my Mum or Ashley about it. They'd freak out and drag me to the hospital, and I hated hospitals. They reminded me of so many ugly memories. And so shoved the thoughts of it aside, deciding it would stop the same way it started. No need to worry anyone.

"Are you alright?" Rebecca inquired, looking at me closely.

I forced a smile; I hadn't realized I'd paused mid-task. "Yeah, I'm fine."

"Are you sure? You look pale, and is it just me, but you've been putting on a lot of weight recently."

I laughed, amused. What does gaining weight have to do with illness? "Rebecca, I'm fine. And about the weight, I only gained a few pounds because I've been frequenting the gym."

"Alright. If you say so," she mumbled, even though she didn't look convinced. I was not in the mood to convince her either, so we both let it slide.

before I responded, she already took

moved on

**********

arriving home, we were surprised to see packages heaped on the

I didn't," I responded.

she

how come they're here, and who brought them?" I

already approaching the

move. What if it's a bomb or something harmful? You're just gonna walk

being a

like a hawk. She tugged at one of the packages, and

respond but glanced at the card and then exclaimed, "Aha! It's for you." She

accepted

dear Arielle." Without a second

said simply, handing the card back to Ashley.

want anything from that family! We're divorced all these gifts translate to nothing but pity. She feels sorry her son left me

sending me gifts."

"Arielle -"

in three years, courtesy of her son?

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