38

Ciara Mendes

"What do you want to talk about?"

Yesterday, after Rhea requested a conversation, she received a phone call and quickly excused herself with a hasty apology. Now, here we are, just one hour away from receiving the results, sitting in my kitchen and munching on French fries. She appeared less anxious after I mentioned that my sister had personal matters to handle and that my mother had gone home to participate in an art festival where she would be showcasing her work. However, Rhea's anxiety resurfaced when I asked the question.

She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand before her eyes met mine. "I want to apologize for getting involved in your relationship. I know you might not believe me, but I never intended for any of this to happen. I was stupid and naive—"

"We're only human, Rhea," I replied. "I know I should probably hate you, but I don't. Besides, babies are blessings."

She snorted, glancing down at her empty plate. "Yeah, a baby that I can't e