Page 61 of Leo

The aroma of the baking cake began to fill the kitchen, a warm, comforting scent that seemed to wrap around her like a blanket. She felt a sense of accomplishment, a fleeting moment of peace amid the turmoil. She wiped her hands on her apron and glanced at the clock. Time seemed to stand still in the quiet house.

As the cake baked, she cleaned up the kitchen, her movements methodical and deliberate. With each wiped counter and washed dish, she felt a little more in control, a little more ready to face the challenges ahead.

The timer rang, and she took the cake out of the oven, the golden-brown crust a perfect testament to her skill. She set it onthe counter to cool, a small smile playing on her lips. She had done it. She had created something beautiful amidst the chaos.

By this time, her stomach was heaving, and she was sweating. Sitting on the stool, she pressed her hand to her chest and took several deep breaths.

She had not allowed herself to think of the life growing inside her and because she had not done that, then she hadn’t made an appointment to confirm her pregnancy. But she knew, without a doubt, she knew she was pregnant. The symptoms were all there. She had never missed a period – ever.

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, but she blinked them away. She had to be strong. She had to face this, just like she had faced everything else. There was a life inside her now, a precious life that depended on her. She could not afford to crumble.

She stood up, determined to keep going. She had decisions to make, preparations to consider. The uncertainty with Leo, the betrayal by Greg, all seemed so trivial in comparison. A new focus took root in her heart, one that eclipsed all her previous worries.

She went back to the counter, slicing a piece of the cooled cake and taking a bite. The flavors burst in her mouth, a symphony of sweet and tangy notes. She smiled, a genuine smile, and felt a glimmer of hope. She could do this. She would do this. For herself, for the baby.

The kitchen, once a place of escape, now seemed to hum with new purpose. She cleaned up the rest of the mess, her movements lighter, her heart a bit steadier. Tomorrow, she would call and make an appointment and go on from there.

Chapter 14

Dr. Sanju Chiara was an Indian doctor, a petite ball of energy who had been recommended by Michael.

“She is a friend of a friend and is very personable and easygoing. She is also one of the best OB in the state.” He had also offered to accompany her, and she had said yes.

Last night had not been a restful one for her. Not even after the hours of baking that had taken her into the early hours of the morning had done its trick. She had not heard from Leo and spent a restless night twisting and turning in the bed.

She could understand that he was angry and hurt, but to completely ignore her was something she could not understand and had said as much to Michael.

“Give him time to cool off.”

“Or find someone else. Be with someone else.” She muttered.

“Darling, you did drive him away.”

The truth hurt, but Michael was right. She could always call him but was afraid that he was going to tell her that it was over. She had seen the look of finality on his face, and it was haunting her.

She got dressed and met the doctor in her office. The medical complex was a couple of miles away from the pastry shop and could be accessed easily from the highway. It made it easy for her if she had any sort of emergency.

The doctor smiled and gestured for her to take a seat. “I know Michael is not the father.”

“No, he’s not.”

She nodded. “Anything you say to me will remain confidential.”

“I know. How is my health?”

“Perfect.” The doctor made some notations on her pad. “You’re a little underweight which is surprising since you own that perfectly fantastic pastry shop on Holland Street. I have had some spectacular pastries from there over the years, especially since you have taken over fully.”

“I should have thought of bringing you something. I spent most of last night baking.” She twisted the strap of her tote absently. “How is the fetus? That is what it’s referred to, isn’t it?”

The woman nodded. “You are approximately four and a half weeks pregnant and should be delivering your baby the first week of June.”

“My birthday’s in June. June eight.”

“Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the baby arrives then?”

“No. I hate sharing my birthday with anyone.” She smiled slightly. “What now?”

“You said you have been having a difficult time with your stomach. I am prescribing some pills to try and combat the nausea and some iron tablets and folic acid. I am also making a list of things you should be eating. Not too many sweets.”

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