I walk into the bathroom, dazed, to find that the tub is filled with steaming water. After I strip down, I get into the tub and let the water sooth my aching body. I run my hands over my stomach and watch as my baby moves inside me.
It’s just you and me, little bird.
Something about that idle thought catches. It snags on the corner of a harsh realization. A growing realization.
The realization that I made a choice about what happens next. One I couldn’t fully process until right now.
It’s just you and me, little bird.
A single tear slips down my cheek.
The only one who has the power to give me the life I want is me.
If I want a different life, I have to take it.
And I can’t make Artem come with me.
I can’t bring him with me at all.
My muscles cry out for me to stay in the bath fo
