Despite the door being closed, the conversation on the other side was loud enough for me to hear every word.
“Mabel, are you deaf or something? How come you took so long to pick up?”
“Sarah, I was busy and didn’t hear the call…”
“More excuses! Don’t think you can slack off just because you’re pregnant. Luke and I are on our way home, so get dinner ready. If my nephew goes hungry, you’ll be in for it!”
“But Sarah…”
I was stunned. My mom was pregnant!
I couldn’t bring myself to listen to what Mom said next.
Normally, a pregnancy would be a cause for celebration, but I just couldn’t muster any happiness.
At her age, having a baby was risky enough, and it seemed like her second marriage was already fraught with issues.
When Mom ended the call and saw me standing at the door of the study, she looked genuinely startled.
“Reina, what are you doing here?”
I didn’t answer right away. Instead, I helped her to the sofa and tried to keep my emotions in check.
I asked firmly, “Mom, are you pregnant? Does Cody know?”
Mom gave a shy smile.
“Of course, Cody knows. He’s thrilled and says he’s sure I’m going to have a son.”
“Reina, why do you look so upset? Are you afraid the baby might be a burden? Don’t worry, I won’t let it be a problem.”
My poor mom, even at this moment, she was more concerned about everyone else and hadn’t really considered her own situation.
Taking a deep breath, I said softly, “Mom, I’m not upset, and I don’t see your baby as a burden. Whether it's a little brother or sister, I'll make sure they’re well cared for. But you’re older now, and I’m concerned about the risks of having a baby at your age. And, well…”
I left the rest unsaid. It was clear that, at a time when she should be cherished and well taken care of, she was instead facing these conditions at home. It made it hard to feel genuinely happy about the news.
Mom, who had endured so much for me, had become accustomed to accepting whatever came her way.
I didn’t want to confront her with these stark realities.
But I couldn’t just ignore it.
I took her hand gently and said, “Mom, you need to take it easy now that you’re pregnant. Let me make you some chicken soup to help you feel better.”
Mom waved her hand dismissively.
“I’m fine. You’ve just arrived and must be exhausted. You should rest. I’ll take care of everything.”
With that, she started to rise from her seat.