31

The day Joan returned from her travels, she arrived at my doorstep in a state of panic.

I was sitting at the balcony, receiving some fresh air when she practically ran into me. It was evident that something had shaken her to the core, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of urgency in her demeanor. I welcomed her inside, concern etched across my face.

"Lizzy, why don't you ever listen to me," Joan said, her voice trembling. "I told you to keep your pregnancy a secret until I arrived even from Gerald but what did you do? You went ahead not to tell only Gerald, but the whole effing clan!" She quiet screamed me while looking around frantically.

I guided her to the living room, offering her a seat on the comfortable couch. Her behavior was making me panic too but I tried my best to act cool and collected

"What's the matter, Joan?" I asked gently, trying to steady my own racing heart. "You seem distressed that I told the clan about my pregnancy. I didn't see any reason why it should be k