“Luna, you could ruin your life,” he started, but I cut him off, my desperation spilling over as tears I had held back for too long finally broke free.
“I.DIDN'T.DO.ANYTHING.WRONG.Why wouldn't you believe me?I told you what happened, and you just pretended you didn't hear me!”
“Kids these days are doing all sorts of things.Everyone in town is talking about that girl Aria who got pregnant at 16.No one has nice things to say about her,” he argued.
“Pregnant?Is that what you think?That I'm pregnant?I didn't even kiss the guy, and you'd rather assume the worst than trust your own daughter, thinking I'm reckless like those kids,” I cried, stepping closer to him.I felt deeply let down by my own father.Had I ever given him a reason to doubt me?
“Then I'm sure you'll have no problem going to the appointment tomorrow.That's final, and there will be no further discussion.I'll drive you at 9 AM.You can go now.”He turned away, his tone firm.I sensed he was becoming emotional, perhaps regretting his approach, but my anger consumed me.
I dashed upstairs and slammed my door shut behind me, allowing the tears to flow freely.I needed to release it all.I refused to join him for dinner, retreating further into isolation.
The alarm blared, jolting me awake.I must have been in a deep slumber because it took me a moment to gather my thoughts.I stumbled into the bathroom and was met with a shocking sight in the mirror: my eyes were puffy and bloodshot.I quickly splashed cold water on my face and applied some eye patches to help reduce the swelling.
I made my way to the kitchen for a much-needed cup of coffee, and I spotted my dad sitting at the table in the same spot Zane had occupied the last time.I remained quiet, choosing not to break the silence.I started the coffee maker, and once it was done brewing, my dad spoke up.
“Be ready by 8:30 AM.We'll leave a bit early since I have patients later,” he instructed.I nodded in response and carried my coffee back to my room without saying anything.
After showering and getting dressed, I was downstairs by 8:25 AM.It felt like I was facing a trial; my stomach twisted in knots, making me feel queasy.
We drove in silence, pulling into a small parking lot by a four-story cream-colored building.The first floor housed several shops, including a grocery store and clothing boutiques.I felt the weight of people's gazes on me, as if they could sense the reason for my visit and what my dad was thinking.
Entering the building, we took the elevator with another person, who struck up a conversation with my dad.Of course, they knew each other; in a small town, everyone seemed to be connected.Thankfully, the older woman exited on the second floor, leaving us to ride to the third floor in silence.
My legs shook, and my palms felt clammy despite the cold outside.The moment we stepped into the office, a wave of heat enveloped me.I quickly shed my dark blue coat and gray hat, settling into a small black chair in the corner of the waiting room.
Across from me sat a girl, no older than fifteen, with her mother.She looked terrified, and I was reminded of my own first visit, when I had worn that same apprehensive expression.My dad had signed me up but opted to wait in the car, clearly uneasy.
I hoped the girl would be called in first, allowing me more time to prepare myself, but that wasn't the case.Moments later, Dr.Paoli emerged from her examination room, smiling and calling my name.I shot a glance at the girl, who appeared relieved it wasn't her turn.I returned her smile and followed Dr.Paoli inside.
“Have a seat,” she said, gesturing not to the exam chair but to a regular chair by her desk while she typed on her computer.My heart was hammering in my chest, but I reminded myself there was nothing to fear.I was eager for my dad to realize he had been mistaken about me.
“So, how are you feeling today?”The doctor asked, shifting her focus to me.
“I'm good, thank you,” I replied, giving the expected answer.
“Are you currently sexually active?”she inquired, raising her eyebrows.It shocked me, and my mouth fell open.
“No, I… I've never…” I hesitated, feeling awkward discussing such a personal topic with a stranger.
“Oh,” she said, surprised.“Your dad mentioned that you might be… pregnant.”
“Well, he's wrong,” I retorted sharply.
“Alright then.We'll do a quick exam just to ensure everything is okay, and I'll let you go.”She smiled and pointed to a paper gown on the exam chair, instructing me to undress and lie down before stepping out for privacy.I hurriedly complied, waiting about 10 minutes for her return.
The experience was uncomfortable; I felt exposed and vulnerable, but as promised, she was efficient.And my trial was over.I exhaled.
After inviting me to get dressed, she rushed outside with my chart.I opened the door and approached the front desk, looking at the receptionist, who was my neighbor from two houses down.
“Can I go now?”I whispered, unsure if she heard me.
“Yes, dear.You can go.The doctor will call your parents to inform them about the details of your visit.”I sensed her judgmental gaze; she knew why I was there, and shame washed over me again.
Once I reached the car, I wondered if Dr.Paoli had already spoken with my dad.I climbed into the passenger seat, buckling up, and glanced at him, hoping for an apology that never came.But then he spoke.
“Dr.Paoli called.She said everything is fine.I'll drive you home now, and this afternoon I'm picking up your mom from the hospital.If you want to come, let me know,” he said, keeping his eyes on the road.I couldn't read his emotions; he wouldn't apologize.He was mistaken, but he wouldn't admit it.
“Stop the car,” I shouted, causing him to look at me.
