Her mother's eyes

DEBORAH'S POV

I tossed and turned all night, sleep eluding me as thoughts of the abortion churned in my mind.

Every time I closed my eyes, I saw the tiny life growing inside me begging to be spared, and my heart ached.

I knew I had agreed to this to save face for Victoria, and our family, but the weight of my decision held me in the throat like cruel and calloused hands.

In desperation, I reached for the rotary phone on my bedside table. My trembling fingers dialed Elijah's number, the familiar clicks of each number a small comfort in the stillness of the night.

I wanted to hear his voice. I wanted him to tell me that this baby was necessary. That it was stupid of him to suggest that I got an abortion and that he was sorry.

The phone however rang and rang, but there was no answer.

I tried again. And again but each time, I was met with the same hollow ringing.