Chapter 50. Star-Crossed

In the quiet solitude of the bathroom, Mariah held her breath as she stared at the pregnancy strip in her trembling hands. The test, with its two distinct lines, told a story that she couldn’t quite believe. Her heart raced, and a swirl of emotions washed over her.

Just outside the door, Blaire’s voice carried the weight of joy and excitement. “You’re pregnant, Mariah. Oh my gosh! This is great news.”

Mariah, still in a state of disbelief, nodded and uttered softly, “Maybe it’s a false negative. Let me check again.” She reached for another pregnancy strip, hoping beyond hope that the result would be the same.

Blaire, ever the voice of reason and support, continued from the other side of the door. “Mariah, it explains all your mood swings and the nausea you’ve been feeling. Don’t forget your weird food cravings.”

Mariah’s fingers trembled as she followed the familiar procedure, her heart pounding in her chest. And then, as the seconds ticked by, she couldn’t d