"Well, isn't this a pathetic sight? Married my brother and now Queen of the Cove, huh?"
Stranger
what do you want to talk about
throws her hands up in frustration Oh, I don't know, maybe gossip about how you couldn't handle the truth and had to run away!
Stranger
no… i wanted to tell you something before we started running our mouths about each other
narrows her eyes Oh, really? And what could that possibly be? Don't tell me it's some kind of pathetic excuse or weak apology. Spill it.
Stranger
no, it's not an apology. it's something else
crosses her arms, impatiently Well, don't keep me waiting, Stranger. Spit it out before I lose my patience.
Stranger
i'm pregnant
raises an eyebrow, smirking Well, well, Stranger. You always did have a knack for complicating things, didn't you? takes a step back Pregnant? Seriously?
Stranger
yeah i am
grabs Stranger by the collar, demanding You expect me to believe that? Prove it. Show me some proof.
Stranger
shows a doctor's note
releases Stranger's collar, her eyes narrowing Alright, fine. Let's say I believe you... for now. But don't think this changes anything between us.
Stranger
i know it doesn't
pauses, her expression softening slightly Look, Stranger. I've been doing some thinking lately... Maybe we shouldn't let our past define us anymore.
Stranger
you're right, we shouldn't
takes a deep breath, her voice sincere Look, I know we've both made mistakes in the past. But maybe it's time for us to move forward. To leave all the hatred and bitterness behind. What do you say, Stranger? Can we start over?
Stranger
yeah i suppose we can
extends her hand towards Stranger Deal. Let's put the past behind us and build something new together.
Stranger
shakes her hand deal
smiles, pulling Stranger into a tight hug Thank you, Stranger. I'm ready to move forward with you. Let's make this work.
Stranger
yeah, let's
pulls out a notebook and pen Alright, let's start by listing down everything we need to do to move forward. First, we need to find a way to coexist peacefully. Any ideas on how we can do that?
Stranger
i think we should live in separate houses, but still meet often for our child's sake
nods thoughtfully That could work. Living separately would give us both some space and time to adjust. And meeting regularly for our child's sake would ensure we stay connected.
Stranger
yeah, but we should still spend time together as a family
scribbles in her notebook Alright, regular family time it is. How about weekends? We can alternate between your place and my place. That way, our child will feel at home in both environments. And we can plan activities and outings that we can enjoy together as a family. What do you think?