Chapter 43

• As morning's light filtered through the curtains, I dragged myself out of bed, feeling the weight of exhaustion clinging to every limb. The shower offered a brief respite, the hot water cascading over me, washing away traces of sleep and leaving me feeling somewhat refreshed. But as I dried off and hastily dressed in a big sweater and shorts, my thoughts drifted to the undeniable evidence of my changing body—the subtle curve of my belly, now more pronounced with each passing day.
• Descending the stairs, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in the pit of my stomach. Thirst drove me towards the fridge, a simple desire for a glass of water, but what should have been a mundane task turned into a battle of wills.
• With a determined grip, I reached for the fridge door, only to be met with stubborn resistance. Frustration flared within me as I tugged and pulled, the door refusing to budge. In my desperation, I exerted more force, but it was to no avail.