44.

Miranda walked slowly across the yard to the large Oak tree, which had become her favorite spot since she arrived at Hugh’s house, about a month ago. The house was situated deep in the woods. It had been a secret holiday home for Hugh’s family, till his parents were killed. Now, it was a place where Hugh and his sister, Alyssa stayed sometimes, to escape the disturbance of the outside world, and revel in the beauties of the quiet woods.

For Miranda, the house was the most beautiful and peaceful place she had ever stayed. There, she was able to dwell in her thoughts and imagination, without any interruptions. There, with the company of two geese who had adopted her as their friend, she let her thoughts ramble, carrying her across the pains and joys of her past and dreams of the future. Dreams of the future of her unborn child.

Smiling, she raised her shirt up and gently caressed her stomach. Yes, she had fulfilled her promise to her baby.

“No harm will come to you as long as I’m alive