Chapter 19 The Inner Struggle

"Doctor, can I abort my pregnancy now?" Alayna asked, her voice filled with desperation.

Dafa's eyes widened as he interrupted their conversation upon hearing Alayna's question. "Wait, Alayna, what are you saying?"

Alayna turned to face Dafa. "Exactly what you heard. I want to abort my pregnancy. I never want it."

Dafa suddenly fell silent for a moment, his eyes full of worry. He knew that Alayna's question was a serious matter, and he wanted to give a proper answer.

"Listen, Alayna," Dafa began, his voice calm yet caring, "This decision is very important, and we need to discuss it carefully. Pregnancy is often seen as a blessing, as it nurtures life. Have you considered the potential of this life forming within you? Why should you stop that life?"

Alayna, feeling a surge of frustration, turned back to the doctor, seeking information and guidance. "Doctor, is it safe to undergo an abortion at this early stage, just two weeks into the pregnancy?"

"In most cases," the doctor explained as he was trying to strike a balance between medical expertise and compassion, "Aborting a pregnancy during the early stages, such as two weeks, tends to be safer compared to later stages. The risks of complications are generally lower with a medical abortion at this stage. However, it's important to note that there are still potential risks involved."

Alayna's hands trembled slightly as she made up her mind. In a voice filled with determination, she declared, "Then, I want to proceed with the abortion."

The doctor's expression turned serious, highlighting the gravity of Alayna's decision. "This choice is entirely yours. However, it's crucial to understand the potential risks involved. There is a risk of excessive bleeding, infection, and even the possibility of a failed procedure. Additionally, it's important to consider the emotional impact this decision might have on you. All these factors need to be taken into careful consideration."

Tension hung heavy in the room as the weighty decision was made. Alayna's hands trembled as she fought back tears and she anxiously absorbed the doctor's explanation.

With a grave tone, the doctor continued, "We will do everything in our power to carry out the procedure safely and provide the support you need. However, I implore you to think long and hard before finalizing your decision. Regret is a heavy burden to bear."

These words struck a chord within Alayna, prompting her to delve deeper into her thoughts, considering the consequences, risks, and values. The doctor's insight made her realize that this choice demanded careful reflection and introspection.

Alayna nodded slowly, acknowledging the doctor's advice. "Okay, doctor. I will take the time to reflect on it."

A warm, understanding smile graced the doctor's face. "Of course, Alayna. This decision holds immense importance, and it's vital that you feel confident in whatever path you choose. We are here for you, ready to lend an ear and extend our support."

Expressing her gratitude, Alayna thanked the doctor warmly before stepping out of the room. As she left, she sensed the presence of Dafa, who had been faithfully by her side throughout this stressful process.

Making their way through the bustling hospital corridors, the two of them finally reached the busy parking lot. The air buzzed with the sounds of revving engines and hurried footsteps, amplifying the sense of urgency in their minds.

They settled into Dafa's car, Alayna taking a seat beside him. Dafa, sitting in the driver's seat, glanced at her with concern. "Are you okay?"

Alayna took a deep breath. "I don't know," she said in a doubtful voice. The news she just obtained would affect her entire life.

Dafa nodded, sensing Alayna's need for solitude and contemplation. "So, where would you like to go now? Shall we head to the office, or would you prefer to rest at home?"

Alayna pondered the question carefully, her thoughts swirling within her. "I don't think I want to go home, nor do I have the energy for the office."

Dafa arched an eyebrow, curiosity was evident in his voice. "Then, where do you have in mind?"

Her reply came softly. "I'm not sure. I just need some time to gather my thoughts and find a sense of comfort."

Understanding her need for space, Dafa nodded empathetically. "Alright, I'll take you somewhere. Remember, I'm here for you if you ever need someone to talk to or share your emotions with. Your health and well-being are the most important."

The journey progressed in silence, allowing Alayna to lose herself in reflection while gazing out of the car window. They navigated through bustling streets and towering buildings, each passing moment filled with unspoken emotions.

As they approached a bridge that seemed to stretch towards the horizon, Alayna's voice broke the silence. "I want to go there."

Dafa looked at the bridge and nodded in agreement. "Sure, it's a beautiful place. Would you like to stop there for a while?"

"Yes, I want to stop for a moment. I think I need a little time to reflect and feel the wind."

Dafa drove onto the bridge, joining the pathways that connected two tranquil sides of a serene river. When the car came to a stop at the edge, Alayna stepped out and made her way to the bridge's center.

She stood there, the crisp breeze delicately caressing her face, her eyes fixated on the distant horizon as the sun slowly ascended.

Dafa patiently waited inside the car. He knew that times like these were important moments in Alayna's life and that sometimes, natural places and views could provide the calm and perspective she needed.

While Alayna stood in the middle of the bridge, Dafa himself was contemplating. He thought of all the unexpected events and felt a deep shiver run through the center of his chest.

Those feelings were even more complicated, along with the fact that Alayna was pregnant with Lev Halton's baby, the man who was only supposed to be her husband on paper for the next five years.

In the deep silence, Dafa's hands subconsciously gripped the steering wheel tightly. Confusion, pain, and unanswered questions swirled through his mind.

He knew that all of this was the unfathomable complexity of human life and feelings, and right now, there was so much he had to consider.

However, one certain thing was that Dafa would always be by Alayna's side, to support her on this journey, even though he had to face his own increasingly complicated feelings.

The atmosphere of the cars crossing the busy road with all its congestion was a reflection of the inner struggle that Dafa was currently experiencing. All the fast-moving vehicles around him reflected his feeling of haste as if his life was moving at an uncontrollable speed.