But that would just be selfish of me. What could I offer a baby? I would barely have money to take care of myself, and I'd planned to work odd jobs to make ends meet until I could enroll in some courses.
A baby…
I can't do it.
The doctor assumes my tears are because I'm emotionally overwhelmed. But I'm just mourning my future.
I'm bound to be his prisoner—forever.
Just as this disappointment threatens to overtake my entire being, the doctor spreads some cool gel on my stomach.
"This might be a bit cold," she warns before touching my belly with the device.
I turn my head slowly to the screen and watch in wonder as something small appears.
"Is that…" I whisper, words simply failing me.
"Yes, it's the heartbeat. Everything looks normal. Your baby is about six to seven weeks old."
I listen to the small but steadythumpsound, and I feel Enzo hugging me from behind.
"We're having a baby, little tigress," he whispers in my ear, his voice full of emotion.
"What is it?"Enzo quickly comes to my side, taking my hand and leading me to the table. If you saw how he behaved with me, you'd think I'm made of glass.
But seeing how happy he's been about the baby, it's no wonder he wants to make sure everything is okay.
"I'm fine. Just a little tired." Sighing deeply, I take a seat. He's next to me in a second, offering me water and medicine.
"No," I push them aside. "I'm fine, really," I assure him again.
Going into the tenth week of pregnancy, my nausea had gotten better, but my energy levels had gone down. Surprisingly, Enzo's been a constant presence around the house.
His father had been the happiest and had proceeded to inform all his relatives that he'd have a grandson soon—not that the sex had been confirmed yet.
But for the first time ever, Rocco had been nice to me.
"Do you need anything?" His eyes are full of worry as he looks at me, his finger drawing circles on my skin.
"I have a favor I'd like to ask…" I summon the courage to ask, knowing this is no small task.
"Anything," Enzo responds.
"I'd like for Lia to come stay with me during the pregnancy and after the birth. She's always been like a mother to me and…"
"Done!" Enzo interrupts me, and I'm taken aback by his resolute answer.
"Really?" I ask in awe. I'd been prepared to fight him on this.
"I told you, Allegra. Anything you want, you just have to ask."
Anything for the baby…
The foreign thought enters my mind, and I'm once again faced with disappointment. Why can't anyone like me forme?
"You really want this baby, don't you?" I turn to him, and his brows pinch together in a frown.
"Of course, don't you?" His answer is immediate as a smile pulls at his lips.
