*Nina*
I sit nervously in the waiting room of the doctor's clinic, my hands fidgeting in my lap. Today, Nick and I are here for a check-up and scan, a necessary step to gain clarity about the pregnancy.

The weight of uncertainty still bears down on me, but Nick's presence beside me brings me a sense of calm and reassurance.

Nick takes my hand in his, his touch grounding me in the moment. "Nina, remember, there's no pressure. We're here to gather information and make sure everything is healthy. It's important to have all the facts before making any decisions."

His words ring true, but my mind still swirls with doubts and fears. What if I'm not ready to be a mother? What if I can't give this child the life they deserve? Nick's understanding gaze meets mine, and I can almost hear him silently reminding me that he is here for me, no matter what.

"If you do not want to see the screen just tell me," he says softly. "You do not need to see it if you feel it pressured you."

"Thank you," I lean over to give him a soft kiss. "I will tell you if needed."

As we're called into the examination room, I take a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart. The doctor, a kind and gentle presence, greets us warmly and explains the procedure. Nick stands by my side, his hand never leaving mine, offering silent support.

As the doctor begins the scan, a mix of anticipation and anxiety swirls within me. I do decide to watch the screen, holding my breath, until the doctor's voice breaks the silence. "There it is, Nina. Your baby."

Tears well up in my eyes as I catch a glimpse of the tiny form on the screen. In that moment, the worries and uncertainties fade away, replaced by a profound sense of awe and wonder. This little life growing inside me is real, and seeing it fills me with a tender love I never thought possible.

Nick squeezes my hand, his voice filled with gentle joy. "Look sweetheart,  our baby," he swallows and I notice how bright his eyes are. "I almost can't believe something that tiny can grow to a baby."

A mixture of emotions washes over me... joy, fear, and a newfound sense of strength. I turn to Nick, my voice trembling slightly. "Thank you." His support and understanding have helped me feel more and more relaxed about this pregnancy. I couldn't ask for someone better than him to share this with.

Nick smiles, his eyes filled with love. "Darling there is no need to thank me, I'm here for you, every step of the way, no matter what. Together, we can handle whatever lies ahead."

As we leave the clinic, hand in hand, I feel like I am finally finding a sense of clarity. But I am happy he is not pressuring me for a final decision yet. He gets me and that matters the most.

The road ahead may still hold uncertainties, but with Nickas my mate, I know that we can face whatever challenges come our way. In his unwavering support, I find the strength to trust in our journey and believe in the love we share.

*Pilar*
I sit beside Margarita, watching as she struggles to feed her baby, Daniel, his first taste of porridge.

He keeps slapping the spoon away and It's clear that she's finding the experience overwhelming, and she looks at me with a mixture of frustration and resignation.

"Pilar, I don't think I'm cut out for this," Margarita admits, her voice heavy with doubt.

Her words strike a chord within me, and I take a moment to gather my thoughts before responding. "Margarita, it's not uncommon to have doubts and feel overwhelmed as a new mother. It's a challenging journey, especially when you're young and without a partner. But you will get it with time."

Margarita shakes her head, tears welling up in her eyes. "No, Pilar. It's more than that. I regret having him. I regret becoming a mother. I'm not the person he needs." She sighs. "I don't feel the love for Daniel like I thought I would. And being a mom... I just don't enjoy it."

"I know we are fed this idea of instant love for the mother, but I believe that love can grow and evolve over time." I try. "Especially if you are Young and unprepared for the role."

"Maybe..." she mumbles, her voice doubtful.

Her words hang heavy in the air, and for a moment, neither of us speak. Finally, Margarita breaks the silence, her voice filled with a mix of sadness and determination. "Pilar, I can't keep pretending anymore. What I really want is to leave Daniel with you. I want you to adopt him."

My heart sinks and soar at her words, a mixture of empathy and concern flooding through me. I reach out and hold Margarita's trembling hand. "Margarita, this is an incredibly difficult decision to make. Are you sure about this? Have you thought it through?"

Margarita nods, her voice filled with a heavy resignation. "I've thought about it for a long time, Pilar. I want what's best for Daniel, and I know that with you and Zac, he'll have the love and support he deserves. I can't give him that."

Tears stream down both our faces as the weight of her decision settles upon us. I pull Marguarita into a tight embrace, holding her as she sobs. "Marguarita, I'll support you in whatever decision you make. But please remember, you are not a bad person for feeling this way. It takes immense courage to acknowledge your limitations and prioritize your child's well-being."

Margarita's voice trembles as she speaks, her words laced with a mix of pain and longing. "I just want Daniel to have a loving father figure in his life. Zac... he would be such a good father to him. And you are already more of a mother than I ever managed."

I hold her even tighter, my heart breaking for both Marguarita and Daniel. "I understand, Margarita. We will take care of Daniel and give him the love he deserves. You will always be a part of his story, and we will support you through this."

As we sit in silence, the weight of Margarita's decision hangs heavy in the air. In her sacrifice, I see a mother's love, fierce in its own unique way. And my heart fills with a mix of gratitude and determination to provide Daniel with the love, support, and stability he deserves.

I mean I have to talk to Zac, but I already know he will feel exactly like me.