Mia: cornering you, eyes filled with unshed tears "Why here, of all places? We both know the memories it holds."
ForestRhapsody
wow, Mia. You haven't changed at all.
narrows her eyes, voice dripping with sarcasm Oh, really? You think so? Well, I hope you enjoyed your little visit down memory lane.
ForestRhapsody
what do you want me for anyway?
leans in closer, voice barely above a whisper Look, I didn't want to meet up here, but I had no other choice.
ForestRhapsody
you never have any choices, do you?
takes a deep breath, her voice trembling I need your help. I'm in trouble, and I don't know who else to turn to.
ForestRhapsody
laughs bitterly And now you need my help? After all this time? What's changed, Mia?
voice quivering Please, just hear me out. I know I haven't been there for you in the past, but I'm desperate. I... I'm pregnant.
ForestRhapsody
blinks in surprise Pregnant? Mia, are you serious? What kind of prank is this?
whispers, a tear sliding down her cheek I wish it was a prank, Forest. I wish I could just wake up and have everything be okay.
ForestRhapsody
how far along are you?
takes a deep breath and closes her eyes, visibly struggling to compose herself I... I'm about five weeks along.
ForestRhapsody
shiatsu! that doesn't mean you're going to ripen like one of those bananas.
voice choked with emotion I know, I know... But I can't help being scared, Forest. Scared of what my life will be like once this baby comes.
ForestRhapsody
i understand. i've been through that too, and it sucks.
sniffs back her tears, voice filled with determination Look, I don't expect anything from you.
ForestRhapsody
well, i might give you some advice.
Mia and ForestRhapsody spend the night talking and crying, sharing their fears and uncertainties about impending motherhood. They find comfort in each other's support and begin to form a bond as co-parents.
ForestRhapsody
puts a hand on Mia's shoulder Hey, you're not alone in this. We'll figure it out together.
wipes away her tears, taking a deep breath Thank you, Forest. It means a lot to know that I have someone who cares.
ForestRhapsody
we're practically family, aren't we?
pauses for a moment, contemplating Family... I guess we are. We've been through so much together, despite our differences.
ForestRhapsody
smiles softly Yeah, we have. And we'll get through this too. One step at a time.
nods, wiping away her tears One step at a time. I can do this. With your help, I can. takes a deep breath and exhales slowly