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The thought crashed into my mind like a tidal wave. I was carrying a tiny life within me, and every decision I made now had consequences for both of us.
I couldn't indulge in alcohol, not even a single glass, not while I was responsible for this precious little one growing inside me.
I felt a pang of disappointment and a hint of frustration. I'd always enjoyed the occasional glass of wine, especially after a tiring day, and I hadn’t even considered that I’d have to give it up for the next seven months or longer.
I lowered the bottle back onto the shelf, my hand trembling ever so slightly.
A mix of emotions swirled within me - the desire for that escape, the disappointment in myself for forgetting about thepregnancy, and the overwhelming responsibility of motherhood that was already shaping my decisions.
A voice nearby startled me, "Excuse me, miss, can I help you find something?"
I turned to see a friendly supermarket employee wearing a green apron over a blue t-shirt. He looked at me with a warm smile, clearly ready to assist.
I managed a weak smile in return and said, "Oh, no, I'm fine, thank you. I was... considering some wine, but I think I'll pass today."
As I continued shopping, I couldn't help but reflect on the moment. It’s a small, seemingly insignificant decision, but it represented the start of a profound transformation in my life.
My choices were no longer just about me; they were now all about the life I was growing and nurturing within me. I couldn’t make decisions lightly now. I had to make this baby the focus.
All my decisions now would impact this life inside me.
At the checkout counter, I paid for my groceries, including some sparkling grape juice I realized I could enjoy as a delightful substitute for wine.
As I exited the supermarket, the sun had dipped below the horizon, and the world was cast in shades of twilight. I felt a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility. Walking home, my heart filled with anxiety for the new chapter ahead.
Chapter Fourteen
Alexander
Sunday 10:36 a.m.
I glanced over the lush green fairway, the vibrant emerald green of the golf course extending into the horizon.
The sun hung lazily in the late afternoon sky, casting long shadows across the meticulously manicured grass.
I gripped my golf club tighter, attempting to muster some enthusiasm for the game. Beside me stood my long-time friend and business partner, Jon Maniscalco, a third-generation Italian American with a knack for colorful expressions.
We'd played golf countless times together, but today was different. A heavy silence hung in the air. His question finally broke the silence.
"You never have time for our Sunday golf sessions. What changed today?"
Jon's voice was as casual as the breeze rustling the leaves of the surrounding trees.
I couldn't blame Jon for being curious about my sudden availability for a Sunday golf session. He knew how busy I was in my position, so it was unusual that I could make it work.
I took a deep breath and contemplated my answer as I prepared to tee off. The ball lay in front of me, perched on the wooden tee like a tiny globe waiting to be launched into the world.
"Nothing," I replied, my voice more unconvincing than intended. "I just needed a golf game to clear my head."
Jon raised an eyebrow as he studied me, his dark eyes filled with curiosity and concern.
We’d been friends for years. He knew me well enough to sense when something was up.
"Boredom, huh? Well, it’s a boring sport if I'm being honest," he jabbed, a mischievous smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
I laughed, relieved by his light-hearted response.
"That's the point, my friend. Sometimes, you need a little boredom to appreciate the excitement of life."
