Chapter Three

"I started my life afresh in Illinois, in a city besides Chicago.

I got a job in a fancy restaurant that the elite visited the most, the pay was good, and tips from time to time.

Sometimes my thought drifts to Maxwell; he hasn't called to check on me since I left him.

Ava and I plan on going out to have fun after my shift tonight. For the first time in a very long time, I want to unwind and enjoy myself.

We both freshened up and selected what to wear. We arrived at the club quickly and went inside. The bouncer was Ava's pal.

Ava ordered the strongest beer, and while I chose the same, I couldn't recall how much I drank. After a few minutes, I realized I was alone.

My heart skipped a beat when I turned around to see a handsome stranger standing across the busy room. Tall and confident, he oozed a mysterious aura that drew my attention right away.

I felt a bolt of electricity run through my veins as our eyes briefly connected. It seemed as if an unseen link connected us.

My heart was pounding, and a warm flush spread across my cheeks. This mystery guy affected me.

The crowd shifted, blurring my vision, and when I glanced again, the stranger had vanished into the depths of the room.

I was left with a mix of emotions and a need for connection, and I had the impression that someone was watching my every move.

I continued with my drink, humming to the music. I don't recall the last time I had so much fun. I noticed the mysterious stranger again. He walked up to me smiling.

I couldn't take my eyes away from him. Tall and confident, with wavy dark hair that fell smoothly across his brow and piercing eyes that appeared to hold many secrets.

My heart skipped a bit as our eyes locked for a brief moment.

"Hi," he said. His voice is so soothing.

A warm blush raced across my cheeks at that moment.

"Hi," I said flirtatiously, scolding myself inwardly for what had gotten into me. I believe it was the alcohol. I shrugged it off, my gaze fixed on the stunning man in front of me.

I noticed he was staring at me lustfully.

Then our eyes locked, and a bond was formed between us. With a knowing glance and a whispered consent, I melted away in his arms.

I was immersed in the moment until I sensed he kicked open a door. I realized we were in a room.

Our bodies danced in unison, discovering our pleasures and desires. It was a whirlwind of passion.

I discovered a freedom in his arms that I had never known before. As the night took shape, the world outside faded away as I fell into the enticing spell of the stranger.

The next morning, I awoke with a severe headache.

The events of the previous night flashed through my mind; the mysterious stranger left. With mixed emotions, I dressed, gathered my belongings, and left.

I was angry with myself for all that happened.

Ava was worried sick when I got home. She locked me in a loving embrace the moment she laid eyes on me.

"I was afraid something had happened to you."

"Ava, you wouldn't believe what happened," I hurriedly added.

"What? What happened?" Ava asked with a troubled look on her face.

"I met this guy at the club, and we... we... we ended up... you know."

Ava's eyes widened as she reached for my arm. "Wait, do you mean you... slept with him?"

"I did. It was hasty, reckless, and totally out of character for me. I can't believe I let myself get so carried away."

Ava sat me on the couch. "All right, take a deep breath. It happened, and there's no point in lingering on it now. Please tell me everything."

I described meeting the stranger, the instant connection, and the passionate encounter that followed.

Jasmine, it's only natural for you to look for some kind of relief because of what you've been through with Maxwell.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I nodded. "I understand, Ava. But this is not the solution.

Ava gave a lovely smile. "Exactly. Jas, you're brave, and I believe in you. We'll make it through together."

I held Ava close. "Thank you so much, Ava. What would have I done without you?"

**********

My one-night encounter with the mystery man stayed with me. I wondered why he left without a word, not even a note.

I was lying down on the couch, phone in hand, reading through my I*******m feeds and liking a series of photos that caught my eye when a thought flashed through my head.

I've been feeling tired lately, even after a decent night's sleep, longing for a nap.

I discovered my taste buds long for salty tangles with the sweet creaminess of ice cream.

My breasts felt sore and somewhat fuller; I immediately touched my breast to confirm.

Then there was my missed period, which rang off alarm bells in my head. I sat down on the couch hastily.

I dashed out the door and went to the store. I can't imagine becoming pregnant, especially after my divorce. This can't be happening.

When I arrived at the store, I purchased four pregnancy test strips.

I came back home worried. Ava had returned from work; she is a paralegal at a law firm.

"What's up?" Keeping her eyes buried in her system, she questioned.

"Hello," I answered.

"You seem uncomfortable," she said as she heard my voice and looked up at me.

"Ava, I think I'm pregnant. The signs are there."

She looked at me shocked.

I nodded my head.

"Let's not rush to conclusions," she remarked, shaking her head. Let's be certain you are pregnant."

Without being told, I rushed to the bathroom and peed on all four pregnancy strips.

The anticipation and nervousness welled up within me as I waited for my fate."