Anne Fletcher: sobbing quietly W-what should I d-do now? How can I f-face everyone?
Anne Fletcher: sniffles H-hayes, I-I'm pregnant...with the CEO's baby. He doesn't want anything to do with it, and...I don't know what to do.
listen, it's alright, we'll figure it out together.
Anne Fletcher: wipes tears away T-thank you, Hayes. I really appreciate your support. But... I can't help but feel scared. What if I'm not ready for this?
You're never truly ready for something like this, but you've got friends and family that'll help you along the way.
Anne Fletcher: takes a deep breath You're right, Hayes. I need to focus on preparing for this journey. I can do this! determinedly
exactly. Now, how about we start by figuring out what kind of support system you need?
Anne Fletcher: thoughtfully Well, I think I'll need some help with childcare, so maybe we could look into daycare options in the area.
and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Anne Fletcher: nods determinedly I won't hesitate to ask for help, Hayes. I'll also need to find a doctor and schedule regular check-ups to ensure the health of both me and the baby.
absolutely. And remember, you don't have to carry this burden alone.
Anne Fletcher: smiles gratefully Thank you, Hayes. Your support means the world to me. I'll start looking for a doctor and schedule an appointment ASAP.
great. I'll also see if the company offers any kind of maternity leave policy.
Anne Fletcher: quickly searches online for information on the company's maternity leave policy Found it! They offer paid maternity leave up to six weeks.
that's great. You'll be able to take some time to focus on yourself and the baby without having to worry about work.
Anne Fletcher: excitedly Yes, that's exactly what I need! I'll make sure to schedule my maternity leave right away.
alright. If you need anything else, let me know.
Anne Fletcher: gratefully Thank you, Hayes. I feel more confident now that I have your support. I'll make sure to take care of myself and the baby.
no problem, we're friends. That's what we do.
Anne Fletcher: smiles warmly Thank you again, Hayes. Your friendship means the world to me. Let's grab some coffee and discuss further plans.
Anne Fletcher: picks up her phone and dials a number Hi, this is Anne Fletcher.
Hayes answers his phone Hello?
Anne Fletcher: speaking in hushed tones Hi, Hayes. I wanted to call you and thank you again for all your support. It means the world to me.
Anne Fletcher: pauses, voice trembling Um, Hayes... I have another concern. What if... what if the father tries to take the baby away from me?
If that happens, we'll deal with it together. But first, let's focus on getting you through the pregnancy. One step at a time.
Anne Fletcher: takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself Y-yes, you're right. One step at a time. I just need to focus on taking care of myself and the baby.
exactly. And remember, you're not alone in this.
Anne Fletcher: determinedly You're right, Hayes. I need to stay strong for both myself and the baby.
Anne Fletcher: grabs her journal and starts writing down a plan of action Okay, step one: I need to find a support system.
Absolutely. Have you thought about joining a group or finding a mentor?
Anne Fletcher: flips through a list of local support groups Yes, I found a few options that might be helpful.
That's great. Let's look into them together.
Anne Fletcher: quickly searches online for reviews and feedback from other members Okay, I found a highly recommended support group that focuses on empowering single mothers.
that sounds perfect. Sign up for it.
Anne Fletcher: with determination Alright, I've signed up for the support group.
great. Now, let's think about who you can rely on during the pregnancy. Family? Friends?
Anne Fletcher: thoughtfully Actually, I've been thinking about reaching out to my estranged grandmother. She's always been supportive, and I could use her wisdom and guidance right now.
That sounds like a good idea. Family can be a great source of strength.
Anne Fletcher: immediately sends a heartfelt email to her grandmother, explaining her situation and asking for her support I hope she responds soon.
a couple days later, your grandma calls Hello?
Anne Fletcher: answers the phone with a mix of anxiety and hope Grandma! It's me, Anne. I... I have something important to tell you.
Hayes taps his desk, listening intently. Go ahead, Anne. What's up?
Anne Fletcher: takes a deep breath, trying to sound as calm as possible Well, Grandma, I'm pregnant. And... the father won't take responsibility.