Fragile Mending

Diane's POV

"Diane," Joan began, moving to sit beside me on the bed. "You need to remember what Dr. Chen told you. Stress isn't good for you or the babies. Your blood pressure was already concerning at your first appointment."

I let out a bitter laugh. "How am I supposed to stay calm when my entire life has been a lie? When everyone I've ever trusted has betrayed me?"

Joan took my hand, her touch gentle but firm. "I know. And I'm not saying what your parents did was right. But I am saying that your health—and the health of those babies—has to come first right now."

I knew she was right. Taking a deep breath, I nodded, trying to calm the storm of emotions raging inside me.

"My phone," I said suddenly, remembering I'd turned it off last night. "Where is it?"

Joan hesitated, then reached for my purse on the nightstand. "Here. But maybe you should take a few minutes before—"