SASHA’S POV
I sat in the hospital waiting room, the hum of subdued chatter and the occasional cough blending into the sterile scent of disinfectant.
It clung to the air, making my stomach churn-a sensation that had become far too familiar lately. Dad sat beside me, his weathered hand gripping mine.
He didn’t say much, but his quiet strength was there in every subtle squeeze, in the faint tremor of his fingers against mine.
I hadn’t slept a wink last night. My mind had been racing, a gnawing anxiety taking root in my chest.
For weeks, my body had been whispering truths I didn’t want to hear-missed periods, tenderness, and nausea that came out of nowhere. I told myself it was just stress. It had to be, right?
The clock on the wall ticked, each second stretching into an eternity. I tried to steady my breathing, letting Dad’s presence anchor me.
When I glanced at him, his face was calm, but his eyes gave him away. They always did.
“You’re quiet,” he said softly.
“I’m just… trying not to overthink,” I replied, forcing a weak smile.
His hand tightened around mine. “Whatever it is, we’ll handle it together. You’re not alone in this.”
Before I could say anything else, a nurse appeared at the doorway, calling my name. My heart jumped. This was it.
Dad started to rise, but I touched his arm gently. “I’ve got this,” I said, my voice steadier than I felt.
“You sure?” His brow furrowed, concern etched into his features.
I nodded. “It’s probably nothing.”
Reluctantly, he sank back into his chair. “Alright. But I’m right here if you need me.”
I followed the nurse down a long corridor, each identical door adding to my unease. Inside the examination room, Dr. Patel greeted me with a kind smile. Her warmth helped, even if only a little.
“Good morning, Sasha,” she began. “What brings you in today?”
I hesitated, then decided to lay it all out. “I’ve been feeling… off. I’ve missed my period, and I’ve been nauseous. I thought it might just be stress, but…”
Dr. Patel nodded, listening intently. “It’s good that you came in. Let’s run some tests to rule out anything serious.”
Her calm demeanor helped me get through the questions she asked-about my cycle, medications, my personal life. Answering was mechanical, my thoughts swirling with what-ifs.
After the tests were done, she said they’d have the results soon and sent me back to the waiting room. Dad stood the moment he saw me, his eyes scanning my face.
“How did it go?”
“It was fine,” I said, managing a faint smile. “Now we just wait.”
He guided me back to our seats, his hand a steady presence on my back. I was grateful for it. Waiting was agony, every second an eternity.
My mind spiraled, imagining every possibility. What if it was something serious? What if it was something I wasn’t ready for?
I almost didn’t notice Dr. Patel approaching, a folder in her hands. My heart pounded as I stood.
“Well, Sasha,” she said gently, “I have your results.”
I held my breath.
“You’re pregnant,” she said simply, her words ringing in my ears. “Approximately two weeks along.”
Pregnant. The word hit me like a tidal wave. My knees felt weak, and Dad’s hand was suddenly on my arm, steadying me.
“Are you sure?” My voice was barely a whisper.
Dr. Patel nodded. “The tests are very accurate at this stage. I’d recommend scheduling a follow-up to discuss prenatal care.”
I nodded numbly, the word echoing in my mind. Pregnant. I couldn’t process it. My world tilted, my thoughts a tangled mess of shock, fear, and something else I couldn’t quite name.
Dad thanked Dr. Patel as she left. When we sat down again, he turned to me, his eyes searching mine.
“Talk to me,” he said gently.
“I don’t know what to say,” I admitted, my voice breaking.
“Then tell me how you’re feeling.”
“I’m scared,” I whispered. “I wasn’t expecting this. I don’t even know how it happened-well, I do, but…” I trailed off, tears blurring my vision.
He took my hand again. “It’s okay to be scared. This is a big moment, but you’re not alone. We’ll figure it out together.”
A tear slipped down my cheek as I nodded. I was so grateful for him, for his unwavering presence.
“I don’t know how Sebastian’s going to react,” I admitted.
Dad’s brow furrowed. “Sebastian loves you,” he said firmly. “You two will face this together. And no matter what, I’m here for you.”
His words offered a glimmer of hope, even as the uncertainty loomed. I knew I’d have to tell Sebastian soon.
The thought terrified me, but for now, I leaned into Dad’s embrace, letting his steady presence ground me.