Instantly, I feel guilty about not calling her sooner. I didn't intend to make her worry. She doesn't need the added stress.

"I am sorry," I say. "Please don't worry about me. I'm fine. How are you doing?"

"I am great and so is our beautiful little girl.

Gabby holds her daughter so that I can see her and my heart melts. She has Gabby's eyes and Manuel's nose. I have never seen a more beautiful baby. Tears fill my eyes and I try to stop them from falling but I am not able to.

"She is adorable," I say through my tears, "When was she born?"

"Last week," she replies as Alessandra starts to cry. "Sorry, it's almost feeding time."

"I understand. Call me back when you get a chance."

"I will and you better answer. I want to hear everything."

"I'll answer, I promise."

"Okay. Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yes. I am fine. We can talk about it later."

"Okay. I'll call you when Manny gets home. I miss you."

"I miss you too."

When she hangs up, I feel a rush of emotions surge through me. Gabby looks so happy, and Alessandra is perfect. A twinge of jealousy hits me as I think of how lucky she is to have someone who loves her so much. I wonder whether I will ever find a love like hers and Manny's.

"Riley, are you alright?"

I turn around to face my mom.

"Yeah. Why wouldn't I be?" I ask confused.

My mom smiles and takes a sip from her mug of coffee.

"I know I shouldn't have pushed you to talk to Harrison about all this, but you know I was concerned. I know it must have taken a lot for you to leave him. I just think you would feel better discussing it rather than running away from the problem."

"I guess you're right...I just needed a break, is all."

"Well, I hope you know that talking about stuff like this isn't a bad thing."

"Yeah... I know..."

My mom stands up and walks over to me wrapping her arms around me.

"Don't be sad. You're young. Bad moments like these don't last forever. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise because they don't really know. Love isn't always easy to find, but if you keep looking, you'll eventually see your true partner."

I wrap my arms around her as well.

"Thank you, mom."

When she leaves, I wait for Gabby to call back. I could really use a friend right now. Anthony kicks inside me, reminding me I am not alone. I rub my belly and feel him shift positions. He is getting bigger. I can feel him growing.

My phone starts ringing and I reach for it, hoping it's Gabby and not Harrison. When I see Gabby's number.

"Hey!" I exclaim, " I am so glad you called."

"I am glad you answered. Now you can tell me what happened with Harrison."