Chapter 1

1

My hand slipped, the phone clattering to the floor, cutting off the call.

I stared down at my swollen belly, gently caressing it, tears welling in my eyes.

It all made sense now, why John never seemed excited when I asked him to feel the baby kick.

He knew all along. He knew our baby was never meant to be born.

...

John emerged from the bathroom, a smile playing on his lips. "Hey, honey, how's our little troublemaker doing? Giving you a hard time again? Let me tell him to behave!"

I lifted my tear-streaked face, the accusations caught in my throat.

Seeing the concern etched on his face as he rushed to my side, pulling me into a tight embrace, I hesitated.

"What's wrong, babe? Are you feeling anxious again? I'm here, don't worry."

His touch sent a chill down my spine.

How could he be so cruel?

Secretly ending our child's life, maintaining his relationship with his mistress, all while whispering sweet nothings in my ear.

A bitter taste filled my mouth. I placed my hand on my stomach, testing the waters.

"John, why… why don't I feel the baby moving anymore?"

He leaned down, pressing his ear against my belly. I watched his face, catching the flicker of impatience in his eyes before it vanished, replaced with a tender smile.

"He's moving, honey. He's just being playful. You're just anxious, that's all. I'm right here with you."

Just as I opened my mouth to confront him about the phone call, his assistant knocked on the door.

"Mr. Lewis, the doctor needs to speak with you about the surgery."

John glanced at me, his voice soft and reassuring. "I'll be right back, sweetheart. Just a quick chat with the doctor."

He always insisted on having medical discussions in my presence, worried about my health.

At the door, the assistant lowered his voice. "She's been demanding to see you, sir. I'm worried her emotional state might affect the baby."

My heart clenched. I followed, unnoticed, watching John disappear into the next room.