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"Yes! It's a full-time role, managing programs for the teens. It would be a step up from what you've been doing volunteering here. It's a lot of responsibility, but I can't think of anyone better suited for it."
His words sink in, and a wave of relief washes over me. A fresh start, a new beginning. This could be exactly what I need at this point. I look at Steve, a soft smile playing on my lips.
"I... I don't know what to say," I stammer. "Thank you. This is exactly what I think I need especially because I'm..." I stop myself.
Don't tell him you're pregnant yet, idiot.
Who is going to want a pregnant employee?
I try to switch gears, but he's already onto me.
He squints at me, concern drawing tight lines around his eyes. "Maya, I've known you for a long time. I know when something's eating at you. Is there more going on that you're not telling me?"
I swallow hard. I never thought it would be this tough. But it's Steve, he's always been there when things got tough.
"I... I'm pregnant, Steve."
His eyes widen at my confession, and for a moment, he's speechless. Then, he lets out a deep breath, running his hand over his face.
"Wow... Maya, that's... that's a lot. Is it... Hunter's?"
I nod, unable to hold his gaze. He's quiet for a moment. I can feel his gaze on me, searching for more information.
"You're in a tough spot, kid. But remember, it's your life... and you have the right to make decisions for yourself. You've got to think about what's best for you and your baby now."
I look up at him, my eyes welling up. "I... I don’t know what to do, Steve. I am not even talking to Hunter right now."
Steve sighs. "Maya, I think you need to talk to Hunter. Carrying all this by yourself is going to eat you up. It might not solve everything, but it will help to clear the air. And it's not just about you anymore." He pauses, looking at me as he continues, "And what about your mom? Have you told her?"
I shake my head, the fear evident in my eyes. "No, not yet. I just... I don't know how to."
Steve leans back in his chair, crossing his arms. "Maya, you need to tell her. You can't keep something like this a secret. It's going to be hard, I won't lie to you, but she needs to know. Don't underestimate her. She might surprise you with how she handles it."
Steve's eyes soften as I keep listening, letting his words sink in. "Maya, you need to surround yourself with support. You can't - and shouldn't - go through this alone." He pauses. "And if you decide to take this job, I want to make it clear that we'll do everything to support you too. That includes healthcare benefits and we've even got a built-in daycare here at the club." He gives me little laugh.
It's true. There are kids always around here. It would be easy to bring my baby along.
"Thanks, Steve. I appreciate it." I exhale, feeling the tension in my shoulders loosen. "You know, Maya, I have a daughter of my own. I've seen and learned quite a bit about pregnancies, although from a father's perspective." He chuckles, "So, I have a few tips for you. First, you gotta take care of yourself. Eat healthily, stay active, and make sure you get rest. It's not just about you anymore; you're building a life here." He points at my abdomen with a knowing smile.
"Pregnancy is a roller coaster ride. There'll be good days and tough ones. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, scared, excited, and a million other things at once. And remember that it's okay to ask for help. You're not expected to know everything. Use your support system, whether it's your mom, your friends, or even me. We're here for you, okay, kid?"
I look at him and smile. "Got it."
"And one more thing, Maya," he adds, "you're going to be an amazing mom. I've seen you with the kids here. Don't doubt yourself. You've got this."
I feel the sincerity of his words and the tears start to well up in my eyes. It's been weeks of sleepless nights, holding the weight of the world, keeping this secret. I've felt so alone, so unsupported. And here I feel cared for. It's overwhelming.
The tears escape, rolling down my cheeks, and I let them. "Thank you, Steve," I manage to get the words out despite the lump in my throat. "I'll... I'll let you know about the job. I really appreciate it, I just... I need to process everything."
"Take your time, Maya."
I stand, wiping the tears from my cheeks, "I gotta get going, my mom's in town for the weekend. I haven't seen her yet and I'm going to tell her."
"You'll do great, kid."
I nod, giving him one last smile before turning and walking out of the club.
I can do this.
