Chapter 14: Shattered Bonds
(Samantha's POV)
I didn't reply to Hector's message. Instead, I lay in the bathtub, warm water lapping against my skin as my fingers probed my lower abdomen. No movement yet from the baby growing inside me.
Even though I'd made an appointment to terminate the pregnancy, maternal instincts still kindled a glimmer of hope for this child. I'd been so careful these past weeks—avoiding cosmetics that might harm a developing baby, no high heels that could affect my balance, not even a full cup of coffee.
I wished it were all just a nightmare. Upon waking, I would rush into Ethan's arms and gently tell him the good news. But reality was harsh, pushing me further away from him with each passing hour.
"I can't do this," I whispered to the empty bathroom, my voi
