chapter forty five

I sat down next to Isla's hospital bed, taking her hand. "Isla, there's something I need to tell you," she said softly.

Isla looked at me, concern etched on her face. "What is it, Iris? Are you okay?"

"I'm pregnant," I said quietly, watching as Isla's eyes widened in surprise.

"Oh my god, Iris! That's amazing! Congratulations!" Isla exclaimed, smiling widely.

I felt a wave of relief wash over me at Isla's reaction. "Thank you," she said, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. "I was so scared to tell you. I thought you'd be disappointed in me."

"Why on earth would I be disappointed?" Isla asked, her expression softening. "You're going to be a wonderful mom, Iris. And you have Felix, too. He's going to be a great dad."

I looked down at my belly, feeling a sudden surge of love for the tiny life growing inside of me. "I hope so," I said softly. "I just...I don't know what to expect. And there's so much going on. School, my personal life, and