Alicia felt a nagging unease. “Doctor, could I be pregnant?” she asked.

The specialist handed her the report. “You are pregnant, Alicia, but your HCG levels are alarmingly low. We need further tests to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.”

A shiver ran through her. An ectopic pregnancy? She’d always known her health was fragile, making conception and carrying a pregnancy to term unlikely. She and Caden had been careful. Except once. That single time in the car…

How could this have happened?

Holding the report, Alicia said, “I’ll take your advice.” She underwent the follow-up tests alone. The waiting was agonizing, punctuated by mild abdominal pains—a harsh reminder of this ill-timed pregnancy.

The results confirmed it wasn’t ectopic, yet the news remained troubling. The specialist explained, “Unfortunately, your uterine lining is too thin to support a pregnancy safely.”

A cold fear gripped Alicia. “Can the pregnancy survive?”

“It’s too early to say, but your body is at its limit. You risk miscarriage throughout the next nine months. A growing fetus could endanger both your lives. You must consider the implications carefully.”

Alicia clenched her fists, her heart aching. So the dream was real. She and Caden were having a child. But it was also a dagger, piercing her heart.

Tears welled. “What do you recommend, doctor?”

The specialist adjusted her glasses. With regret, she suggested, “Early termination is advisable, while it’s still possible, to protect your health. Take three years to recover; then trying again shouldn’t be too late.”

Alicia shook her head, her voice choked with grief. “Wouldn’t termination also pose risks? Could I conceive again afterward?”

“It varies. With proper care, future pregnancies are possible.”

“Is there absolutely no other option?” Alicia’s voice was heavy with despair.