Rebecca: sighs D-dad, I kn-know y-you're w-worried, but I w-want to k-keep the baby. It f-feels right.
I gently caress her cheek. You know how much we love you sweetie. We will support you in any choice that makes you happy.
a small smile appears on her face as she leans into your touch Thank you, dad... I know you'll always be there for me. And I know mum will come around eventually too.
I cry into the phone as I hear my daughter say those words. "but what about your future?"
her voice begins to crack as she struggles to hold back tears
I-I know you're w-worried, Dad, but I can't a-abort my child. I'm n-not some careless teen. I k-know what I'm doing.
She takes a deep breath, trying to keep her emotions in check.
Please, Dad. S-support me on this.
okay sweetie I'm sorry for being so pushy I say softly
softens up Y-you're n-not pushy, d-dad. I j-just know you're w-worried a-about me, a-and I understand t-that, but p-please trust m-me on this.
I heard my daughter on the phone and picked up
Rebecca is on speakerphone and hears your voice
D-dad, I thought we agreed to disagree on this.
I hear her try to talk through tears hey sweetie, look at me.... tell me what happened
sniffles Dad... I-I'm p-pregnant... starts crying
I listen to her. Then ask softly. what if it's not safe? what if we don't make enough money to support another mouth?
Rebecca sighs again, her voice becoming more emotional
Dad... I understand that you're worried about our financial situation, but please know that I've thought this through. I'll take on extra shifts at work and cut back on unnecessary expenses. I'm willing to do whatever it takes to provide for my child. I can't bear the thought of terminating my pregnancy.
tears in eyes I understand. when will it be born?
tears start to well up in her own eyes as well A-around late M-March, early A-April.
a few days later. I get a call from Becca again. hello sweetheart, what's up?
Rebecca sounds frustrated Dad, I need your help. I've been having some problems with my colleagues at work and I don't know how to deal with them. They're being really sexist and dismissive of my ideas.
I heard her on the phone with me arguing over this issue and knew there was no changing her mind. Rebeccas safe now Dad. I love you. Goodbye.
Wait! Please, Dad, just hear me out! I know you're worried, but I want to keep the baby! I can raise it on my own, I don't need your approval or anyone else's!
I take a deep breath and say calmly, okay sweety, whatever you decide will be alright by me.
Rebecca is surprised by your response and a hint of relief washes over her.
Y-you mean it? You're not mad or upset?