Page 11 of Revenge

“Kids. Where do you stand?”

“Haven’t thought about it. I’m too young.” I find the question odd. It’s not like we’re getting married. I’ll be leaving for my old life soon. “Why do you ask?”

“Curious.”

“Do you want kids?” I pop another grape.

“I’m done talking.” He pulls me up with him. The next thing I know, I’m over his shoulder, and the conversation is over.

I look out the window and see a mother holding her little girl’s hand. I find myself thinking, soon enough, that will be me. I can’t help the tears. I would love to blame it on the hormones, but I know it’s not true. It hurts to remember why Viktor and I aren’t together. We could have been a family. Now here I am, sitting on a bus, remembering what we were once and will never be again.

I got home from work a few hours ago. I’ve been sitting on the couch looking out the window.

While I was at work, it was busy, so I didn’t have time to think, but here I have no choice. I still don’t have a plan, and I know I need one. There’s a baby coming, and nothing is going to change that. I hear my stomach growl and get off the couch to go to the kitchen and cook dinner. This is what I need, a mindless task, but the more I try not to think, the more the appointment from this morning replays.

“Hey,” Lisa calls, startling me.

“Hi, didn’t hear you come in.” I cover the pot.

“Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.”

“Are you sure? Those tears kinda say otherwise.” I wipe my eyes. I didn’t realize I was crying.

“Long day,” I tell her, hoping it’s enough of an answer.

“Want to talk about it?” I want to say no, but in a few months, she’ll see anyway.

“I had a doctor’s appointment earlier today.” She sits down with a worried face. “I’m pregnant,” I confess.

“I don’t know how you need me to react. So tell me, should I congratulate you or be pissed for you?” Her face is genuine. It makes me smile, and for a moment, I don’t feel alone.

“I don’t know how I feel.”

“I’m here. Whatever you need.” She smiles.

“Thanks.”

As I cook, she tells me all about her day. I appreciate the change of topic. Things are so complicated, and I’m not ready to tell her about Viktor. I’m still trying to figure out how I feel and what I want to do next.

Chapter Six

Viktor

“I’m your wife. You can’t do this to me,” Fiona screeches for the third time.

“You’re more than welcome to move out,” I mutter, annoyed at the entire situation.

“As your wife, I should be in the same bed as you.”

“This isn’t an actual marriage. This is an obligation. If you’re looking for love, go elsewhere.” I walk toward my office.

“We’re married, and I love you, Viktor. We’re having a baby.” She stands in front of me like it’s going to change things.

“I don’t love you and never will. We’re having a child. It’s the only thing keeping you here.” I step around her.

“I don’t want to be in the bedroom downstairs. I want to be with you. At least let me stay in the bedroom across from yours.”

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