Chapter 6 - THE BABY HE ALMOST LOST
In Milwaukee, I began rebuilding my life.
Michael gave me the guest bedroom.
His wife, Rachel, welcomed me without hesitation.
Their two children were thrilled to learn they would soon have a baby cousin.
For the first time in months, I slept without listening for Alexander's car.
I attended prenatal appointments.
Rested.
And tried not to think about the future.
But one afternoon, the pain returned.
Sharp.
Sudden.
Terrifying.
Rachel drove me to the hospital.
Doctors monitored the baby and ordered additional tests.
I lay on the examination bed, staring at the ceiling.
I wanted my mother.
She had died when I was twenty-two.
I wanted my husband.
But the man I'd married no longer felt like someone I could depend on.
So I held Rachel's hand.
And waited.
The doctor eventually returned.
“The baby's heartbeat is reassuring,” she said.
I started crying.
She continued.
“But we need to monitor you closely.”
I nodded.
“Anything.”
That evening, Michael asked whether he should tell Alexander.
I looked down.
“He has a right to know about his child.”
Michael nodded.
“But?”
I swallowed.
“I don't want him using the baby to force me back.”
My brother took my hand.
May you like
“Then we do this properly. Through your lawyer.”
For the first time, I understood that protecting my child didn't require sacrificing myself.
