Debbie
The room was dim, the curtains drawn tight to keep out the afternoon light. I wasn't asleep. I was just lying there, staring at the ceiling. My mind felt like a heavy weight in my skull. I moved my hand down to my stomach. It was still flat, still firm, but everything was different. Inside, something was changing. Something that would change me forever.
The door creaked open. I didn't turn my head. I knew the rhythm of his footsteps and the scent. It was River. He walked over and sat on the edge of the bed. The mattress dipped under his weight.
"Are you feeling weak?" he asked. His voice was soft, like he was afraid I might break if he spoke too loud.
"No," I whispered. "I’m just... here."
River took a deep breath. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "I want to
