After five years of waiting and hoping, Carol finally received the news she had longed for—she was pregnant. After so many challenges, she chose to keep the secret to herself, wanting to be absolutely sure before sharing the joy with her husband, Ronald. The moment she saw the two pink lines on the test, her heart raced with excitement, yet she remained cautious.
To confirm, Carol scheduled an ultrasound appointment, telling Ronald she had a routine checkup. She needed this moment alone, just to be certain. As the technician moved the wand over her belly, she pointed to the screen and smiled. “See that flutter? That’s your baby’s heartbeat.” Carol’s eyes filled with tears of happiness. Finally, the moment she had dreamed of had arrived.
On her way home, she considered different ways to surprise Ronald with the good news. Maybe she would frame the ultrasound picture or plan a special dinner. But as she turned a corner near the medical center, she stopped in her tracks. Just ahead, near the waiting area, stood Ronald—and he wasn’t alone.
A young woman stood beside him, and Ronald’s arm rested gently on her shoulder. His expression was warm and comforting, a look Carol knew well. It was the way he reassured her in difficult moments. A wave of uncertainty washed over Carol. Who was this woman?
Instead of approaching, Carol decided to observe from a distance. She watched as they talked, laughed, and eventually walked toward the parking lot. Curiosity and concern intertwined in her mind. Taking a deep breath, she called for a ride and quietly followed them.
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