Chapter Thirty-Five

“I understand that you don't want to see him, Astrid, but he's drawing so much attention to the house. He swears he won't leave until he talks to you.” Rose explained.

Astrid sat on her bed, clutching a onesie she had gotten just three days ago. She didn't want a gender reveal, not even to herself, so she stuck with whatever clothing she could buy.

“I don't think I can talk to him, Mum. It's been so long. I've learnt to live with the pain, and he shows up right now. It's not fair.” Astrid shook her head, sniffling as tears streamed down her cheeks.

“I know how you must feel, but won't you just hear whatever it is he has to say?” Rose smiled softly at her.

“If you really know how I feel, you wouldn't be making such a request, Mum. I can't do it. He's put me through so much.” Astrid refused with a small shake of her head.

Rose knew the pleading would go nowhere. Astrid had made up her mind.

Just when Rose was about to stand up, loud voices were heard from the hallway in front of the room