“What I really want is for you to bravely chase your happiness. You deserve to be happy, Jennifer. Go after it,” Teresa said, meaning every word. She hoped they could respect each other’s choices and walk their own paths.

After hearing Teresa’s words, Jennifer’s mind conjured Donald’s warm, broad figure, before snapping back to reality. “My first step to happiness is you leaving Nareigh. We’ll be happier this way,” Jennifer declared.

Teresa pressed her lips together, changing the subject. “So, when are you heading to Shaville?” She knew deep down they couldn’t keep living under the same roof; too many conflicts would arise. A little distance was the best solution.

Jennifer shared the news that the director of the Maternal and Child Health Hospital had transferred her to Nareigh General Hospital, with a promotion.

After some thought, Teresa said, “I think Nareigh General is a better choice. As your department head said, if you go to Shaville, you’ll be in a completely unfamiliar place, all on your own. Sure, you have your college classmates there, but they’re just classmates.”

Jennifer lowered her gaze, hesitating. Then, she said, “I think I should go to Shaville.”

Teresa nodded. “Wherever you go, whatever you choose, I’ll respect it. I just hope you’ll also respect my decisions and not interfere too much.”

Jennifer took a deep breath and said softly but firmly, “I see.” Later, she added, “Teresa, let’s let Nareigh be a part of our past and memories, including those people.” Those “people,” she clarified, were those who had brought warmth to their lives. But Teresa couldn’t let go so easily; someone she couldn’t forget was foolishly waiting for her.

Teresa thought, ‘If only he could move on after the divorce. I told him I didn’t love him, and he said he wouldn’t love me either. So why is he still waiting?’ Before she left, she needed to ensure Jonathan let go of any lingering hopes.

The next day, Jennifer took Teresa to her hospital for a prenatal checkup. It was Jennifer’s first time performing an ultrasound for Teresa. “It’s not an ectopic pregnancy. The baby is in the right position. This little one is really holding on tight,” Jennifer announced.

Had it been an ectopic pregnancy, Jennifer could have used that as a reason to persuade Teresa to have an abortion. But this little one seemed determined to be born, thriving and growing strong. All the indicators were good. At that moment, Jennifer abandoned the idea of convincing Teresa to have an abortion.

“Alright. Get up now.” Jennifer handed Teresa tissues.

After getting dressed, Teresa said, “Jennifer, I need you to write me a certificate saying I’m not pregnant.”

“That’s easy,” Jennifer replied, knowing what Teresa meant. Such certificates were common; people used fake medical notes for all sorts of excuses. Jennifer had seen this many times. Writing one was a simple task for a gynecologist, and Teresa wouldn’t spread it around; it was for someone specific.

“How about having lunch together?” Jennifer suggested. “You bought me such an expensive blanket, but it makes me sweat every day.”

“No, thanks,” Teresa refused, keeping her distance. “I’ve got too much work to wrap up before I leave.”

“Alright,” Jennifer didn’t push. “If anything comes up, just let me know.”

“Okay.” Teresa gripped the fake pregnancy certificate, tucked it into her bag, and hurried to the airport. Jonathan had messaged her yesterday: [I’ll go back tomorrow.] He would be landing at Nareigh International Airport soon.