Page 122 of Rust

“Come in,” I said, sobbing.

They climbed into bed and sandwiched me with a hug.

“We just broke up,” I said.

“Damn, Iz. For real?” Farrah asked.

I nodded. “For real.”

“What about the baby?” April asked.

“I’m giving it up for adoption,” I said.

“Hold up. You sure?” Farrah asked. “I mean, think about it. He’s a millionaire. You could get him on the hook for child support and be set for life.”

But I somberly shook my head. “I don’t care about money. All I want for this baby is to have parents that actuallywantit.”

The girls said nothing. They merely squeezed me in their arms, tightening their hugs.

“I’m so proud of you, Izzy,” April said. “There are so many parents out there waiting years and years to adopt a baby. Whoever your baby goes to, they’ll be so happy. Iknowhe or she will feel wanted.”

“That’s all I’ve ever wanted,” I said.

“You’re a great person, Iz,” Farrah said.

“Thanks,” I murmured.

But I certainly didn’t feel like a great person. I just wanted my baby to have what I never had.

April and Farrah held me in the arms. Still, I cried.

This was going to hurt for a long, long time.

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