The garden was peaceful that afternoon, the kind of quiet that almost felt safe.
I had slipped out after another wave of nausea passed, hoping the fresh air would settle my stomach. I wore one of my loosest dresses, the fabric flowing around my body to hide the small but growing curve of my belly. My hand rested lightly over it as I walked slowly along the stone path, whispering silent promises to the baby.
I didn’t notice Elena until she stepped out from behind a tall rose bush.
She stood there for a moment, looking nervous but determined. This wasn’t one of her secret glances from a distance. She was approaching me properly. My heart beat faster as she walked closer.
“Rachel,” she said softly. “Do you mind if I join you?”
I stopped and nodded, surprised. “No… I don’t mind.”
We sat
