I‘m going through the motions at work, unable to concentrate on anything I’m doing. I feel lost and the sweet reunion of Danny and I is ruined by the reality of responsibility. I feel like I’m dragging my feet as I walk the hallways.
He looked infuriated when I told him I was pregnant. Still, he stayed silent and I hated it. This was a moment I had dreamed about growing up and I felt like he had ruined it. I don’t know what I expected. I was hoping for at least a smile but instead, I got disdain.
I can’t be totally hurt that he didn’t react the way I wanted him to. Maybe he’s in shock. Maybe he just needs time to let it sink in… I know I did. I pushed everyone away when I found out I was pregnant. Still… All I want to do is cry. Cry until I have no tears left. My coworkers notice a change in me and immediately ask me what’s wrong. I refuse to let them in on my personal life. Instead, I message Meredith looking for some support. My first thought was to reach out to Emilia but I didn’t want to disturb her honeymoon.
I’m halfway through my shift when I get a text from Danny.
Danny:
Your Bronco is parked outside.
He returned my car from the beach and still, no reaction about him being a father. No questions. No yelling. No happiness. Nothing. So, I don’t reply.
I walk to the waiting area and the lobby’s full of patients. Flu cases have spiked leaving us bombarded with sick families. I open the doors and announce the next patient’s name.
‘Mrs. Johansson!’ I shout.
Everyone looks my way, hopeful for their turn. An older woman who looks to be in her fifties walks towards me. I give her a warm smile while opening the doors to the emergency department, welcoming her in. I walk toward her, offering her my arm. She limps as she walks and she takes my help for balance.
Suddenly, something catches my eye and I look towards the rotating doors of the Emergency Room. I see a familiar stature, walking out of the building and I’m frozen. I know who it is and I refuse to accept it. His back is turned to me and I start to hyperventilate. My chest rises up and down, panting with horror.
Shane.
I hitch a breath as I try to get a closer look to verify my paranoia. I take one step forward to get a glimpse of his side profile view but it’s too late. He disappears outside, passing a wall, leaving me horrified.
