167
~ Lisa's POV
I stood in front of the mirror, fastening the thin belt around my waist. My hands trembled a little as I smoothed the fabric of the gown down over my stomach. My reflection stared back at me, pale, tired, but… different.
My fingers slowly traced over the slight curve beneath the cloth.
"I can't believe this," I whispered to myself. My throat tightened, and tears stung the back of my eyes. "I'm really going to be a mother."
I rubbed my stomach gently, almost as if I was afraid it might vanish if I pressed too hard. A soft laugh slipped from me, shaky but real. "You're here," I murmured, speaking to the little life inside me. "You're real. Even if the world hates me, I'll love you. I promise."
My chest filled with warmth, and for the first time in so long, I allowed myself a small smile.
But the moment was shattered when the door creaked open without warning. I jerked, pulling my hand away quickly.
