Chapter 422
“He’s given me a day to decide whether to end the pregnancy or keep the baby and let him raise it,” Dalores said, resting her hand on her stomach, feeling the faint stirrings of life within. It seemed to her that she could almost sense the tiny life moving.
Choosing abortion meant more than just ending the potential child’s life. It felt like ending a part of herself.
“Ms. Curtis, what would you do if you were in my place?” Dalores looked up at Eileen, her expression torn with turmoil.
Dalores was known for her stubbornness. If she kept the baby, severing ties with Julio and starting anew would be out of the question. Yet, not having the baby would devastate her.
“I can’t decide for you,” Eileen replied gently. “But I can suggest that you take it one step at a time. Things have a way of resolving themselves. Remember, where there’s life, there’s hope.”
Eileen knew she had to tread carefully with her advice.
Dolores’s ability to understand the implications of her words depended on whether she could calm down and assess the situation thoughtfully. She needed to focus on the child, not just her future with Julio.
After spending some time with Dolores, Eileen left without visiting Phoebe’s ward again.
As she stepped into the small garden outside the inpatient department, she spotted the three men.
Jacob and Josue were playfully teasing each other. Bryan, wearing a black brimmed hat, looked composed and mature, but the subtle curve of his lips suggested a hint of mischief as he observed the two from his seat.
“Eileen!” Josue called out, rushing toward her with a smile in his eyes that seemed to plead, “I need to see Gabriela.”
Perhaps after being recently turned away by Bryan, Josue sought her approval.
“Eileen, you need to rein in Bryan!” Jacob said with a tone of envy. “He’s taken things too far. He’s always talking about his daughter. Shouldn’t my son be the center of attention today?”
“That’s true,” Josue chimed in, aggravating the situation. “You’ve monopolized the spotlight, Bryan. Are you trying to stir up trouble for Gabriela?”
“If you’re so bold, why not announce to everyone that Eileen is your wife and that she’s the mother of your daughter? Why not take Gabriela out with you?” Josue challenged.
Jacob slapped his thigh for emphasis. “Exactly! My son’s one-month celebration, his hundred-day festivity, and his first birthday are coming up. What about Gabriela?”
Annoyance crossed Bryan’s face. His lips pressed into a thin line, and his eyes narrowed as he glared at Jacob’s smug expression.