But what Karen couldn't shake was why he had deliberately turned off his phone! Truth be told, if he had just been upfront about Paige being in a bind and needing his help, Karen would've nodded her approval for him to go openly. But some things, once done on the sly, take on a different nature.

Even if nothing untoward had happened, she found it hard to understand him.

Forget it, for all she knew, she might not even be pregnant. Why bother with these thoughts? "Karen, please proceed to Exam Room Three." The automated announcement echoed through the maternity ward's waiting area.

Karen quickly stood up, adjusting her beanie, and made her way to Exam Room Three.

Most expectant mothers came to the hospital with their partners or family members, but there she was, alone and heavily cloaked, a sight so unusual it drew curious glances from passersby.

She quickened her pace and entered the exam room, even the doctor pausing at her appearance.

it chilly

The doctor quickly masked her surprise, looking down to inquire about Karen's

for pregnancy, do you plan on keeping it?" The doctor's tone was neutral, devoid of inflection—a question she must have asked hundreds of times a

she would find out first and then have some time to think! The doctor pursed her lips, looking up at her. "That's how it works. If you decide to keep it, there are certain tests we can't perform. If you decide against it, we can do a sonogram to confirm whether or not you're pregnant, determine how far along you are, the size of the embryo, and discuss your options.” Karen didn’t know

much more to consider than she had thought! "If you can't decide, we'll start with the tests for keeping the baby."

pay the fees, and come back here after you're done with all the tests.” "Alright." Karen rose and left the exam room, her heart racing with an

felt as if something was perpetually hanging over her, a constant source of

suddenly had the urge to call someone - anyone who could

not an option, Kenneth was out of the question, and Jeffrey... it wasn't the right time to call him.

she was still

moment of hesitation, Karen dialed Dorothy's number

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255