Nina

"And we have now landed in Mountainview. Thank you for flying with us."

The pilot's muffled voice crackled over the airplane speakers, rousing me from a fitful sleep. When I cracked my eyes open, the old woman beside me shot me a smile.

"Sleep well?" she asked.

I nodded, stifling a yawn. "It was much needed, I'll say," I said with a wry chuckle.

"Exhaustion gets the best of us sometimes, especially when we're pregnant," she said, patting my arm. "Make sure you get enough sleep, dear. It's always important."

"I will."

With that, the old woman stood, collected her carry-on bag, and left. I followed suit soon after.

I was grateful to finally have my feet on solid ground. The anxiety of the past few days had left me feeling frazzled, and all I wanted was to be home, even if it was just for a little while. Enzo's reassurance before I left the city had helped calm my nerves somewhat, but I couldn't shake the uneasiness that had settled in the pit of my stomach.

"Okay," I murmured to myself as I walked through the airport toward the luggage pickup. "I'll go home, grab what I need, and then it's off to see the parents."

After grabbing my luggage, I made my way through the terminal and out into the crisp forest air. The scent of pine and the sight of the towering trees filled me with a sense of peace that I had been missing.

where our familiar pickup truck was waiting for me, and when I finally slid into the driver's seat and stuck the key in the ignition, I let out a breath I didn't

in Mountainview; but I ultimately decided against it for now. I could call him and update him on everything once I was safely back in

not just the familiar and comforting sights and sounds of my family, but something more.

a wild journey, but what was I supposed to do now? All I could do, realistically, was wait for the witch's examination. Only then would I know

down the familiar winding roads, the tall pine trees towering over either side, the windows down to let in the early summer breeze and the radio playing one of my favorite songs, I couldn't help but wonder what if the fortune teller was right? What if I did lose my baby? Was it inevitable? Was it something that I would just need

and the house finally came into view, I shook my head as if to dispel the thoughts. No, I wouldn't consider that just now. Home first, then

headed inside and up to the bedroom to grab some things. Clothes, a few books, my laptop, toiletries. My bedroom back at my father's mansion was full, and I knew I could buy whatever I needed, but I liked

as I packed my bags, a strange feeling washed over me. I couldn't explain it, something just felt... off. I paused, looking around, but

then my phone rang, and it made

of my pocket, expecting it

I answered.

Lori's voice was frantic on the other end of the line, something that I rarely heard from her. "Oh, thank god. Are

got back," I said, my tone cautious.

spoke again, I could hear the tears in her voice. "You have to come to the hospital right now. It's... it's

widened. "Jessica? What

been in a major car accident, and she's unconscious. They said

as I listened to Lori's words. Jessica was one of the strongest people I knew. The thought of her hurt

be there as soon as I can, Lori," I replied,

jacket, I burst out of the house and into the waning afternoon light. I practically leaped into the truck, whipping out of the driveway

began speeding toward the

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