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It was a secret I’d been carrying for several weeks, leaving me confused, scared, and in need of support.
I watched the pregnant woman unconsciously cradling and stroking her growing belly. It reminded me of the changes happening within me.
The decision of when to tell Alexander and Allan about my pregnancy had become an agonizing dilemma.
Over lunch, despite my internal turmoil, we caught up on each other's lives. I told him about gossip at work, and he continued sharing stories about his art show and the beautiful people he met in London.
His eyes lit up as he described the inspiration behind his new collection, and I was captivated by his passion for his craft.
Allan's laughter was infectious, and I felt lighter and happier than I had all day. His demeanor became more serious as we finished our meal and sipped on steaming cups of coffee.
"I've more news, Liz. I've been offered an opportunity to showcase my art in a gallery in Paris."
My eyes widened with excitement.
"Paris? That's incredible, Allan! That's a dream come true! When is it happening?"
Allan's gaze held a mixture of determination and uncertainty.
"In a few months. It's a big step for me, and I must work tirelessly to prepare for it."
I reached across the table to squeeze his hand.
"I've no doubt it will be a tremendous success, Allan. Your talent is boundless."
He smiled, his gratitude evident.
"Thank you, Liz. Your support means the world to me."
Thinking about this opportunity, I couldn't help but reflect on how our friendship had evolved.
From our college days, where we’d shared dreams and aspirations, to this moment, where we celebrated each other's successes and offered unwavering support, our bond had grown stronger.
Glancing at my watch, I realized that lunchtime was over, and it was time to part ways. We said our goodbyes, and Allan promised to update me on his preparations for his upcoming Paris exhibition.
I returned to my office with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration courtesy of Allan. His commitment to his work excited me to work to my potential.
Susan's feedback on my article was waiting for me on my desk, and I planned to dive into the revisions to distract me from the life growing inside of me.
I finished my work for the day, and as I packed my things and left the office building, the unending exhaustion of pregnancy weighed on me like a heavy blanket.
I longed to get home, put my feet up, and relax. The city buzzed with life as I hailed a cab, and soon, I was on my way.
The ride was quiet, and I thought about the groceries I would need for the coming week. A local supermarket was close to my house, so I stopped there on my way home.
Getting out of the cab and grabbing my bag, I breathed in the crisp evening air, feeling a sense of relief wash over me.
The fluorescent lights and neatly stacked shelves greeted me when I entered the supermarket. I grabbed a shopping cart and began to walk through the aisles.
I needed the usual staples - eggs, bread, orange juice, and fresh produce. But then, an unexpected craving hit me.
I couldn’t help imagining sitting on the couch to unwind with a glass of wine, so I wandered over to the wine section.
I stood before the shelves, gazing at the rows of bottles with their elegant labels and promises of relaxation.
It’d been a long week, and a glass of red wine with spicy and fruity notes made my mouth water where I stood. As I reached for a bottle, my hand paused in mid-air.
I’m pregnant…
