|symptoms|

I woke up the next morning before Sebastian had the chance to wake up. The poor boy was exhausted, after the night he had there was no mystery as to why he slept like a rock.

It was early morning and no one was awake. Much to my advantage, I managed to leave the house unnoticed. Taking a seat in my car I drove out of the mansion...

I can't believe I stayed. I should've left. Now I have unanswered questions about mine and Sebastian's relationship. Does he still have feelings for me? Might we still have a chance?

"UGH!" I shouted to myself in the car.

Men.

I made it home safe and just in the nick of time. Elliot had a game today and I was his ride. If he found out I was late, who knows how upset he'd be. Given that I was late for his appointment last time I came home early one morning by being with a guy, another encounter like that by my brother is not what I needed.

The house was quiet, no one was awake. I took a small breather before walking over to the kitchen fridge.

I was starving.

I pulled on the handle of the fridge and allowed for my eyes to scavenge for some food. I skipped dinner last night being with Sebastian and skipped breakfast this morning by trying to escape as quick as possible.. From Sebastian. It's an odd thing for me to do, skip any type of meal.. And for that I now have an upset stomach yet one that is also craving the weirdest foods.

My eyes set on a piece of pie. It was a pie I'm sure the neighbors brought over as a gift because no one in this house ever eats pie. We are more of a cheesecake kind of family. But there was just something about that pie that was calling for my attention. I grabbed the pie in my hands and then noticed something else rather intriguing before I shut the door. A can of Whipped-Cream. My favorite.

With a smile on my face I grabbed the can and topped it on top of the pie. As I closed the fridge door with my foot, I tilted my head up and poured some into my mouth.

Mmm.. That was desperately needed.

Feeling relief of finally having something in my belly, I took a seat on one of the chairs surrounding our island countertop. The pie was set on the marble and I instantly pulled out a spoon to dig into.

My mouth savored all the taste of the berry pie. I couldn't even think about last night because all I had in my mind right now was how GOOD this pie was!

As I sat there, devouring my newly found addiction—pie, my attention was darted over to the now vibrating phone buzzing across the marble countertop.

I immediately grabbed it, turning the sound off to prevent it from waking up anyone in the house. I sat and waited for a few moment, making sure no one was awakened by it. Once I figured it was safe, I looked down at the screen.

It was only a message.

Taking another bite out of the spoon full of pie, I unlocked my phone with my other hand and tapped on the banner displaying the message.

A smile was softly displayed on my lips as I noticed the name of whom the message came from. It was Andrew.

Andrew:
What will it take for me to see you again?

Andrew, always with a way of words. I held the spoon between my lips as o grabbed my phone with both hands and continued to type along my reply.

Miss me already?

With a smile on my face, I sent the message. Not with a second to waste later, I saw the three bubbles come up, advising me that he was typing. As I waited for his response, I took another whip of the whipped cream can in my mouth. God that was good.

Andrew:
You are easy to miss. I can't stop thinking about the other night...

A smile approached my lips again... But then I remembered.. Sebastian.

STOP IT! I'm not with Sebastian anymore! What happened last night was out of remorse for the loss of his sister. I was doing good by what he once did to me when I was going through a rough patch and the passing of my mother. He broke my heart.. Repeatedly.

Andrew.. He's a good guy. And I must move on.

Neither can I.

I finally responded.

Andrew:
So what are we going to do about it?

A small smirk curved in my expression as I typed my response.

I trust you know how to treat a lady. Just let me know when, and where..

God, I can't believe I'm saying this right now.

Andrew:
You got it.

I chuckled with his responded. Yes, Andrew was good. He was just what I needed after Sebastian. I trust that with him I'll be closer to the kind of person I hope to be, the one I couldn't be around Bash. Wherever this road might take us, I'm going to give Andrew a try.

I placed the phone back down and continued to eat the pie I was so recklessly devouring. After I was satisfied, I put what was left of the pie back in the fridge with the spoon still in the pan for later. I headed over to the cabinet and grabbed a glass cup to then begin to fill up with water. As I was doing so though.. The strangest feeling rushed upon me.

My hand clasped over my mouth, setting the glass cup over the small try on the fridge's door, I held myself for a moment. My stomach began to rumble, making me believe that maybe pie for breakfast wasn't the best idea ever. A small burp escaped my parted lips, and my eyes only grew wider.

The pain wasn't going away.

Maybe I ate to fast, or maybe it was because I skipped two meals and then decided to swallow an entire pie full of sugar and no water to accompany it in one sitting. Whatever it was.. The pain was not a good one, and it wasn't going away either.

I gasped with sudden urge to puke. The glass cup fell from my hands, breaking on the floor beneath me. My eyes squinted, holding in the urge as I got down on my knees and tried to clean up the mess. I reacted quickly, already fearful that my brother or father heard the clash. In the heat of the moment, I began to grab random shards of glass, eventually cutting myself at the top of my finger.

I winched in pain, spotting the blood begin to run down my finger. Now I was really nauseous.. Unable to hold my urge anymore, the glass pieces fell back to the floor and I raced upstairs to my bathroom.

I was feeling fatigue, suddenly weaken by the thought of puking. I hated it. Having to race the seat of my toilet, I began to pour everything out.

* * *

I haven't puked in years. I felt so disgusted with myself for puking that I hopped into the shower as soon as I felt it was done. I shook at the thought of it, sitting there hopelessly over my toilet seat. It was a never ending cycle and mixing my nerves with the whole Sebastian encounter last night and the pour choice of breakfast... I guess that is what I ended up with.

I stood in my shower under the hot water, allowing for my body to recuperate from what I just put it though. It was weird. I felt fine just moments ago and now ever since I let everything out, I suddenly feel tired.

I guess I could blame myself for that. Last night I couldn't get any bit of sleep. I was kept awake by my running thoughts and memories of being with Sebastian.

My hands rose and I was just about to run them over my face in order to wake up when I suddenly stopped myself. I noticed the blood begin to drip from the finger I had previously cut with the glass downstairs. The red liquid oozed from my finger, crashing into the floor of my shower. The sight of that reminded me of something else.. Something I really didn't want to think about right now...

* F L A S H B A C K *

— Three years ago: June —

7:15pm

"I still can't believe you're already a month pregnant." Bash smiled as he stood behind me, watching me stare at my still to grow belly in the mirror of his massive closet.

"Shh." I hushed, fixing the drape around my arms enough to cover myself a little over the stomach. "I still don't want others to know."

Tonight was a special night for the Steel family. It was a gala to celebrate the next heir to the Steel Family name.. Being that Sebastian was the first born boy in his family, he would take on the role as leader for his family's company. Don't ask me.. I didn't make up these rules, but to Sebastian it meant to world because it meant that for one night his family would notice him. Not that I'm one to judge on one's parents, but Sebastian's parents have an odd way of raising their kids. I'm not very found of them and they aren't very found of me. I say this because I don't mean business, a quality the Steels deeply crave. If they found out I was carrying Bash's child.. Their grandchild.. Who knows what they'd say.. Or do..

"What's so wrong with knowing?" Bash continued. "You're not a teenager, you're 21 years old... I proposed to you before the news..?"

"It's not that, Bash." I turned around, looking away from the mirror. I turned to see him fully dressed in his tuxedo, of course, he was still missing the tie.

"Then what is it?" He asked me, hands coming to cup up against my cheeks.

"As your future husband," He paused, smiling as his hands went down to my stomach. "And father to our child.. I want you to be honest with me." He nodded.

His eyes made it almost impossible to resist.

"I just.." I thought about it, saying how I was afraid  that his parents would resent me, but then I stopped myself. Richard and Diane Steel aren't just the cruel parents of Sebastian anymore... We will be family soon enough and being around the talk of hate on families is not one I want to bring a child into... So, I elaborated.

"Tonight's your night..." I smiled, rubbing the palm of my hand against his stubbled cheek. "I'm so proud of you, Bash."

I watched as he eased into my touch, lips pressing a kiss to my hand before he spoke again.

"You have no idea how much that means to me." He smiled.

* * *

After finishing with the final preparations for tonight's gala, Sebastian and I headed downtown where a gorgeous event was being held in honor of his name.

We arrived and immediately noticed a few familiar faces I pleaded to see there tonight. Camila and Alexander. The two are also still together, and they have been supporting us ever since.  They were by our sides the entire night. It was nice to have a friend by my side—one who is just as clueless of this world as I am. She kept me company, as the guys talked business. She and Jo and my father and brother are the only ones who know so far about my pregnancy. Bash told Alex and well, as far as I'm concerned it's only us.

"God this room is giving me a headache.." I complained, rubbing my stomach as I tried to look away. There were so many diamonds, so many suits and dresses of all sorts of colors, materials, and designs. It made me sick.

To top it all off, as the thought was just escaping my mind, Bash's mother, Diane passed by me. She saw me alright, and I couldn't help but catch the glimpse of her evil smirk approach her lips as she saw how horrible in pain I looked. Gosh that woman had a way with her stares..

"Have you had anything to drink today?" Cami leaned into me.

I nodded my head. "Yeah, but it's not that.."

"Then what is it?" She asked me.

I looked at her and the expression in my face said it all. She and Jo are the only people who know how much I can't stand Bash's parents. They're materialist, too involved in the money. They don't care for Bash, or their other daughters.

Nodding her head, Cami grabbed my arm and gently rubbed her hand over mine. "There, there... You guys are going to be family now... This has to stop.."

"I know.." I looked down, sighing.

"Look.. There's Bash.." Camila pointed out. Instantly I spotted my dark haired-blue eyed man from across the room. He was smiling, conversing amongst another group of young men. Seeing him suddenly drew all my worries away. "Go to him.. Try to forget.."

I turned to my friend, noticing her smile as he warm hand gently squeezed my own before she released me.

"Go." She chuckled, giving me a small push. "I'll be around if you need me."

I gave her a small hug before taking in a deep breath and putting on a smile. My heals were killing me, but I forced myself to put on a good look anyways.

The group of men dismissed themselves as I approached the circle. Their discussion was done but I'm sure Bash was the one who ended it. He also isn't very found of these kinds of conversations.

"Hey, you.." He smiled, extending an arm out for me to reach.

"What's with the smile on your face?" I joked, arching an eyebrow.

"Can't a man see his future wife and smile?" He asked.

"Good try, Steel." I joked around.

Our fingered entwined and together we began to walk side by side.. Hand in hand.. Across the golden room. We passed Amelia, Bash's half sister, and she gave us a warm embrace, celebrating her brother for a quick second before she was called on back by another person.

"Ah! There he is!" A voice exclaimed behind us.

We turned around, spotting the man, no other than the original Mr. Steel himself, Richard. Otherwise known as Sebastian's father.

He was being accompanied by two other men in their suits and glass of champagne in their hands. He seemed excited.. This must mean business.

"Father.." Sebastian continued. "Is everything alright?"

"Yes, yes, everything is perfect." He smiled. "Bash, I'd like to introduce you to some of my colleagues back from college..." One by one, the two men were introduced.

The first one was Edward Bolt, a tall white man with blue eyes and a cocky look on his face. If he's from Sebastian's father's college, then I suspect he was a Wall Street man.

The second one was Edward's partner it seemed. He was just as intimidating, a bit darker in skin tone and had very dark hair. His name was Johnathan, and both men reeked the smell of money.

"Nice to meet you." Sebastian smiled after shaking their hands. "This is my—"

Sebastian was immediately cut off, right before he had the chance to introduce me—The proper thing to do when someone is standing besides you—And his father quickly blew it out of importance.

"Good, now that we got the names settled," He clapped his hands. "Sebastian, Ed and John here have some really good news for us.." He smiled, placing us hand over John's shoulder who was then the one closest to him.

He didn't a acknowledge me, much less even look at me. In his eyes, I was invisible.

"We were speaking to your father and seeing how well business has grown for you here down south, we thought about maybe expanding your name up north?" John explained.

"Say.. New York City?" Edward finished.

I watched the reaction on Sebastian's face change abruptly into the expression of a child on Christmas morning. The sound of the proposition was one he and his family have been chancing for generations. New York City.. The Big Apple. Everyone knows that if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere.. And that meant big bucks for the Steels..

"No way.. New York!" He grew excited.

"Yes." The men smiled. "And we want you to represent your family's name up there." Edward continued.

"So what do you say?" Johnathan paused. "Are you interested?"

* * *

"You have to say yes." Sebastian's dad followed behind Sebastian as he stormed out from the meeting with both men from New York.

He seemed unease which is why I decided to follow behind him—Keep him from any trouble. But I decided to keep my distance, in respect for the manner that this was strictly family business and maybe both men had some stuff to air out. But his father on the other hand, wasn't making things easier. Any moment now, I might just jump in.

"Sebastian, it'll be foolish if you deny.." He continued. "Think about what this could do for our name.. For our future." Richard's arm suddenly grabbed onto Bash's stopping him from making any other step and forcing him to turn around and meet his eyes.

"I understand what is at stake, Father." He continued. "But it's not like I can agree in a second—There are things I have to take into consideration that will be affected too."

"And what could possibly be affected?" His father questioned, still, not noticing me in the background of this feud.

Sebastian sighed, looking into his father's eyes as if the answer couldn't get anymore clearer.

"Is this because of that girl?" Another voice joined the conversation. Diane walked in her white designer stilettos, an equally white dress went to compliment them. Her frown was more stern than ever, eyes piercing down at her son that intimidated even me as I stood in a distance behind one of the bushes.

"Mother.." Bash continued. "I told you a million of times, her name is Elena, and I'd appreciate you show her some respect for once."

"This isn't time for games, Sebastian." His mother pinned her eyes at him. "She is merely just another girl.. She won't last in the picture." She shrugged. "Bash, you have to start thinking for yourself.. For your Future.."

His mother scoffed. The idea of Bash and I was never one she found fulfilling. Maybe it wasn't because I didn't come from a world of mansions or a long line of wealthy business owner. Or maybe she didn't like that I didn't play the part of a "Royal" the way they seem to play about in their day.. Maybe it was even because I stay true to my Hispanic roots and enjoy diversity rather than discriminate it.

Every bit of her presence was beginning to bother me. I watched her stand up straight, jaw as tight at it could be. She had short blonde hair and striking blue eyes. Her mere appearance was enough to tell me she was no good. She never showed any kind of love for her kids and Sebastian is deeply hurt by that. But he is also scared of her, for he's never stood up to her a day in his life. That's his mother, which I understand, but she was really no mother to them. From what Bash has told me over the years, it was Amelia and her mother who cared for Bash and Thea. Bash is the man he is today and it's not because of his parents... It's because of his sister.

I lit up in fumes—clenched my fist and tried to control my growing anger of wanting to latch out at her this very instant.

"But I already have a future mom.." Sebastian continued. "With Elena.."

"There is no promise with this immature action you call love, Son." His father shook his head in disdain. Leaning closer to Bash, Richard placed his arm over his shoulder. "Business could bring you wealth, a comfortable future for yourself and your future family to come. Focus on that.. Its the only true promise you'll ever get."

My head turned to Bash as he was still looking at his father. It pained me in a way to see that there was still nothing he could say. Bash is a grown man.. One who can stand up for what he believes in. Who can stand up to his family, for his family... Tonight, I saw none of that which made me question where his loyalty remained.

At that moment, I couldn't contain myself. I knew it wasn't right but the temptation inside me got the best of me. I bolted to the scene, heels banging against the tile floor.

The look on everyone's face as soon as they saw me was beyond what I expected to see.. Shock.. From all of them.

Sebastian's mouth fell agape as I stood there before his family. I fought back the urge to hold my tears—I was afraid to admit it, but I expected more from Sebastian, especially now more than ever— But I lacked that feeling for tonight he displayed to me how little I seem before his work and his parents.

"Elena.." My name fell from his mouth. "How long have you been standing there?"

"Oh God.. Have you been standing there the whole time?" His mother pinned her eyes at me. "For crying out loud, Child, at least have the decency to show up in the beginning of the conversation instead of hiding out back like a small rat.." She rolled her eyes.

"Mother.." Sebastian closed his eyes.

Even his way of defending me was pitiful. God.. I was really unaware of this side of him.

"Don't worry Sebastian.." The tears began to softly flow down my cheek. "I've heard everything I needed to hear.." I tried to hold in my cries, but the tears came out quicker.

"Elena, wait.." He walked closer to me but I took a step back with my hands out in surrender before he could take another step.

Every moment I took in on him it was one that pained me. He becomes a different person every time he's with his parents. It's one I've always called him out on but for what? Obviously it's not doing us any good.

"I thought you were better than this.." I paused. "But to stand there.. And to hear you not say anything to defend me, not even try.. I feel ashamed."

"And why should he defend you?" His mother questioned, crossing her arms behind Bash.

I grew more heated by the moment. My blood began to boil, heart began to pound harder and harder against my chest. This woman really knew how to twist my buttons.

Seeing that Sebastian was still not saying anything, I decided to take one for the team. My team.. Mine and my child's.. Because after tonight, I will not accept this kind of judgment.. Not from this family, not anymore. It was time they knew..

"Should I tell them? Or should you?" I looked at Sebastian. A plain look on my face.

Bash's expression reeked of guilt, and he remained silent. Taking matters into my own hands, I turned back to his parents. The stood there, unenthused, as they waited for me to speak.

"I'm pregnant." I spoke, finally bringing an expression into their faces. Only it wasn't a pleasant one.. It rang of terror. "And it's Sebastian's."

There was a moment of silence. I noticed Sebastian's parents give themselves a tortured look. But Diane was the hardest to crack—The news seemed to her unbelievable.

"Typical." She scoffed. "I should've seen this coming." She crossed her arms.

I stared at her bewildered.

Diane walked closer to me. The stare of death becoming more prominent in her stare.

"How much do you want?" She asked.

"What?"

"How much of my family's money do you want?" She restated.

I was shocked at the response, even more-so, pissed.

"You think I got pregnant for your money?" I emphasized.

"You are a girl.." Diane continued. "And all girls want to marry the rich.. Given that your choice of career is long and interesting... I can tell you want the easy way into money. You want stability. Safety. You will get that and more from my son being that he's blindly in love with you..." Her eyes rolled over to her son, now staring back at him in disgust.

"Bash.." His mother walked up to him. "You can't seriously believe this wanna be vet is really in love with you?" She spoke to her son, hands firmly on his chest. "For crying out loud, she's not even a real Doctor!"

Diane turned back around, eyes pinning at me. Sebastian only held his head down, leaving me alone to fight his own fight.

"Do us all a favor, and go back to the stables.." She stood only inches away from me now, red lips pulling into a deep and evil grin. "And please, take that child of yours with you."

Immediately, I reacted. Standing up from myself and up for MY child, I raised my hand. In seconds it was slapped across her Botox injected face, making her look the other way.

Her mouth fell agape, hand cupping over the red mark I left on her left cheek. My hand stung from the contact, I was hurt, but I wasn't going to show it. Her words staked at my heart.. Just the thought of it.. They saw this child, our child, their own grandchild as a burden in disguise. All these people ever think about is money. They never set it aside.

"You little—"

Before she could finish, I stepped up to her. "Believe me.." My eyes burned into her own. "Your money is the last thing on my mind. And as for MY child.." I paused, quickly glancing over Diane's shoulder to look at Sebastian. He was painfully hurt, but I had to believe he deserved it. "Don't worry, you and money won't be burdened by us."

Picking up my dress, I passed his mother and father with the little bit of dignity I had left. I was just about to pass Sebastian when his arms suddenly stopped me.

"Elena, please..." He begged.

"No!" I moved away from his hold. I was infuriated.. Just looking at him made my heart skip a beat, and it wasn't for the good reason. He disgusted me right now.. "You couldn't even defend me.. Defend us.." I looked down to my belly. "From your own parents.. Bash."

"Please." He tried to reach for my hand.

Again, I pulled away. For the first time in years, I did not want to feel his touch. He let me down tonight, but it was a letdown that has opened my eyes.

"Just.. Leave me alone.." Picking yo my long ballgown again, I turned around and made my way for the door. The tears couldn't be kept in mouth longer. I was the scene of disaster exiting the party, but I did not care. I wanted to be as far away from the place as possible.

I finally made it outside into the fresh air of the night. Gasping for air, I couldn't contain myself any longer and eventually began to break down. There were a few people outside, but none that I knew nor who seemed to care. I needed a moment, for myself. This has been officially the worst night ever.

Feeling pain and betrayal, from the man I love most—I felt my stomach begin to twist. The crowd came out louder and louder and it seemed as if it was never going to stop.

The loud noise of doors bursting open alerted me to stare back at the entrance of the building. My heart sank as I believed it was Sebastian running out for me. But no—It was only Amelia.

Her head darted around in different direction, once turned to her right, she noticed me holding a hand out against the brick wall. The other over my stomach. She looked at me and her head tilted. I tried to hold myself together but it was an impossible task once I noticed her pick up her dress and run to my direction.

"Elena.." She called. Crashing her arms around my shoulders, Amelia embraced me. I cried and I cried, the pain become more and more unbearable.

Her hands urged to calm me down, running down my long hair. She quietly urged me to quiet down, but I couldn't.

"Elena.. I saw what happened.." She quietly spoke over my shoulder. "I am so sorry this had to happen to you.."

"I—I am so hurt.." I cried over her shoulder. "I didn't think he'd just stand there.."

"Shh..." She calmed.

"I can't.." I shook my head. "I can't.."

I couldn't do it anymore. All the pain building up inside of me over the years have finally risen up and I was incapable of containing it in. This isn't the first time Sebastian pulled a stunt like this. I just figured that now that we were expecting a child he'd act differently—I was wrong. He will never stick up to his parents.

"Ow.." I quickly gasped. Holding my hand over my stomach, I forced myself to stop crying for a second.

The pain was coming back, only this time it was stronger. I bit the inside of my cheek and Amelia held onto me.

"Elena, what's wrong?" She gasped. "Are you okay?"

The room began to spin and slowly but surely I became affected by it. The growing urge of puking rose upon me. I was not okay.

I'm usually a very nervous person and I don't deal with pain very well. Maybe this was just a result of my nerves. It's happened before.

"I'm fine." I sniffed, holding my hand over my throbbing head.

I took a step back and Amelia's eyes immediately looked at the ground. She seemed shock. My attention was soon also brought upon the ground and instantly I got scared.

The was a large blob of liquid on the street. There was no color but I can assure you that wasn't there before.

Kneeling down before me, Amelia lifted the bottom of my dress up slight. Even I became aware of the blood oozing down my leg. Amelia said she heard what happened, therefore, her and I had the same expression on our face.

"Oh my God.." Her eyes shot up wide open. "El, we need to get you to a hospital.. Now!"

* * *

The next few hours were ones I never wanted to repeat in my life. I was drained... There was so much pain, so much blood. I was lucky to even wake up so soon.

When I did, it was like I was in a state of euphoria. There were bright lights from the truck displaying from the corner of my eyes. Suddenly, a young man approached me where I laid. My body shook with the movement of the gurney.

"Ma'em? Ma'em? Keep your eyes open.." She kept instructing.

I made an effort to raise my head, eyes trying to see how bad the situation looked.

"M-My Baby.." I mumbled, but no one heard me. "P-Please... Save my... Baby." My eyes rolled back as well as my head, the pain was unbearable and I was failing to remain awake.

All of a sudden, I felt my hand being gripped. The touch made me look to my side where I noticed Amelia mumbling back to the nurses.

"Ma'em? Are you related to the patient?" The nurse asked Amelia as we continued to rush down the hospital halls.

"S-She's my brother's fiancé... Please, she's pregnant.."

The nurse looked down at me and back at Amelia, her eyes shocked. "Okay, ma'em.. You have to stay here.." She stopped Amelia. "We will do everything we can..."

My touch with Amelia disappeared and I heard her voice from the distance shout, "Bash is on his way, El... Please fight for this!"

And that was the last thing I heard....

* * *

The sounds of the soft beeps beamed my eyes to flutter open. I didn't feel as if I was in my ballroom gown anymore. It felt lighter... Breezier. I soon noticed the fabric ripped up and stuffed in a plastic bag on the seat in front of me. Slowly but surely, I regained conscious, and the sights before me—clearly of a hospital—brought me to jolt in my seat.

"El."

My head turned, noticing Sebastian sit up from the chair besides me. He looked like a tired mess, still in the suit of the night's event.

My heart began to race. Sebastian rushed to my side, hand rubbing down my back as he called out the private room for a doctor.

"Bash.." My hands met his arm.

"Shhh.." He urged. "How are you?"

"I-I'm fine...How's the baby?" I asked. "Have you heard anything?"

"Last I heard they were still running labs." He explained.

There was a brief pause. That was defiantly not the response I was hoping for but I guess it's a good one to know. There's still hope.

"Bash.." I paused. "I was bleeding.." The thought of it tore my heart into pieces.

"This is all my fault.." We both spoke at the same time.

The tears urged to rush down my face, hand cupping over my mouth as I tried to hold in my cries..

"Sh.." He rubbed my back. "I shouldn't have let them talk to you like that.. I-I am so sorry, El."

"I shouldn't have overreacted.." I paused. I can't expect much from people these days, even if that is just a little bit of respect, and not only acceptance for me, but for the baby too.

"You had every right to, Elena." Sebastian nodded. "I am preparing to move out soon." He paused. "What do you say we go out and find our own little home..Just for the three of us?" He smiled, placing the palm of his hand over my belly.

I only forced myself to nod.. Though still not clear why, something felt... Different... Gone... I didn't find it in my heart to raise the comment though, for I might stir up just that.. The horrific thought that the baby.. Was gone..

"Miss. Warren?" The doctor's knock were gently felt on the door before walking in. She wore a light shade of pink scrubs and white lab coat, a clipboard in her hand.

Bash and I sat up straight, greeting the doctor with a somewhat serious look on her face.

"And how are you feeling?" She asked me, running a simple set of tests. The usual, checking for dialing pupils and squeezing her fingers for some of them.

"I'm okay." I nodded. The real question here was the baby, but I found it hard to ask.

"How's the baby?" Bash asked after he noticed me stare blankly at the doctor writing down her notes.

"Are you the Father?" She asked him. Bash and I nodded.

"Okay..." Her eyes fluttered closed... "There is never truly an easy way to say this..." She paused. "The test results came back and we also ran an ultrasound before you regained conscious to see how the baby was doing..... Now, things like this do indeed happen, and also to many more young couple like yourselves...." She continued, but her tone said it all.

"Is it okay?" We asked.

The doctor only closed her eyes. "I'm so sorry..."

-E N D O F F L A S H B A C K-

Regaining consciousness, I drew away the haunting memories... The worst day of my life...

Holding back the newly forming tears, I went back to focus on my shower. As I finished, the knob was turned off and the running water had stopped. Steam surrounded me, the room was hot. I wanted to cry, let it all out on how bad I still felt of losing my child that night... A feeling that doesn't seem to ever go away, no time, no job, no boy is ever going to change that....

* * *

As I changed into some more comfortable clothes, all I could hear running through my mind were the doctor's other words from that night... This was so unhealthy... It's been so long now... I'm not even with Sebastian anymore. I felt like I was bouncing back to that stage in my life... My stage of depression, the one that split my whole engagement apart. I couldn't go back to that, I had to pull myself up. The symptoms are all coming back to me. My loss in appetite, my nervous stomach, fatigue... I couldn't do that to myself again, I've already come so far.

God I miss my mother. I miss her touch now more than ever. She always made me feel safe, at home. This... This isn't healthy.

Before I even noticed it, I began to break down. My knees hit the ground of my bedroom floor in front of my dresser. Palms cupping over the top of my eyes as I quietly sobbed to myself. 

The words of the doctor that night kept running through my head.

"We've also ran a few more test, and we found something... Elena, we found a syndrome in you, one that limits you from having a child of your own, or at least carrying it to full term..."

I recalled asking her my chances on having my own family... Her results still haunt me to this day... 1.3%

I have more chances of being killed by a shark in the ocean than having my own child.

It's a killer.. Those voices in your head. As if I didn't feel bad already, they come back to remind you of everything you'll never be. It was the only thing Sebastian ever asked from me.. A chance to start a family. And we were so happy when we finally got pregnant. Everything negative came afterwards we learned what I had.. That I was infertile and couldn't give him the one thing woman were suppose to naturally do... It tore him up. And it was all downhill from there..

* * *

My swollen eyes gently opened up as I felt a hand gently shake me.

My vision cleared and the first thing that came to sight was my frightened little brother, panting as he noticed my state.

I shot my head up, sitting up straight as I noticed I was still in the ground besides my dresser. I sniffed my nose, drying the already dry tears off my face.

Elliot reached his hands out towards me, helping me off the ground as his eyes still wondered over me... Terrified of what he just saw.

"Elena.. Are you okay?" He looked at me, nervous hands moving the strands of hair from my face. "What happened?" His bottom lip trembled.

"I'm fine." I shook my head, drying my eyes again with the sleeve of my shirt.

"Elena.. You're not." He shook his head. "I'm not a kid, you know?"

I forced myself to look up to my brother. My little brother... That's when it hit me. This is the lowest I've ever been. I shouldn't be doing this to them.. To my family. I know they suffer, but I've never seen them react this way with me. Looking into the eyes of 17 year old Elliot, noticed just how much this affected them too..

He shouldn't take care of me.. It's me who should care for him. He's only 17. At the height of his teenage years. I lost a good majority of my teens taking care of my mother and making sure my father and everyone around me was okay. I'm not letting him go down the same path I went through. It was horrible...

"I'm sorry." I broke the silence.

Not saying anything else, Elliot brought me closer to his chest. Bringing me into a warm embrace.

"You have nothing to be sorry about.." He whispered, hand trailing down my hair.

"But El.." He back up, hands holding my arms close. "I'm here for you... Whatever you need.. Whatever you want to talk about." He nodded. "I may not be the best person to get advice from, but regardless, I'm always here to listen.."

His words brought a sudden light into my sullen heart. My brother and I rarely talk given our schedules. But it's not like we hate each other. After my mom, we only grew closer... It was weird though... He's only 17. To me that was always a baby.. A child himself. But seeing how he's taking care of me.. Condoling me.. I can see he's growing to a wonderful young man.

"I've been taking you for granted, little man." I chuckled, reaching out to embrace him once more. Closing my eyes, I pressed a kiss to his cheek. "Thank you."

"Hey.." His hands went down to my waist. He looked into my eyes before smiling. "What do you say we go out and grab a bite? My treat. "

His smile was replicated on my face. I didn't care what it had to be. Being with my brother right now was all I wanted.

I nodded my head. "That sounds amazing." I sniffed, smiling back at my brother.

"You get ready.. I'll start the car." He nodded.

Thanking him once more, I watched him exist my room. I had no idea how badly I needed that. For someone to just assure me that they're there for me. Who else better to share things with than your sibling?

I turned back to my dresser and began to dig out some jeans. They were light high waisted ones that I tipped off with a black off the shoulder long sleeve shirt and some black flats. I wasn't freezing today but the weather was definitely there...

I picked up my hair in a messy bun. All in a calm manner. I applied minimum makeup, all for the sake of hiding the evidence that I was crying. It was still a little clear, but barely.

I grabbed my bag from my bed and started to head out.

* * *

"It's not funny!" Elliot laughed, resting back in his chair as I chuckled quietly before him.

"I'm sorry.. I'm sorry.." I held my hand out over my mouth, trying to stop myself from laughing.

I enjoy hearing stories of my brother's life. He and his friends make the best out of their high school years. Of course, being one of school's favorite varsity baseball player gives him a good advantage in a lot of things I missed out in. He's invited to almost every high school party. Any event goes on at school, my brother is the first one to jump up and participate or crack a joke in the middle of a conversation.

He was just telling me about what had happened to him recently. He and his team are always making bets, especially with the coaches. This helps the guys stay focused and try to win. Well, season finals are coming up. The second to last game is this week and the coaches said that if they win, the team gets to shave off all of the coaches hair... But if they lose... All the team members need to bleach theirs. Let's just say my brother Elliot is very high maintenance with his hair... It's his baby. He spends hours in the bathroom just fixing it to go to school in the morning.

Why is this funny? He suggested it without even knowing.

"I didn't think they'd take me seriously.." He continued to laugh.

"Maybe that'll teach you to not say everything you think of our loud." I chuckled, grabbing a bit of rice noddles from my plate with the chopsticks.

Elliot and I were in one of our favorite "quick bite" places. A small Vietnamese restaurant just a few streets down from our home. It was a local place, and the food was so refreshing.. We enjoyed it.

"Now I'm afraid for my hair.." He joked, sitting back up to grab a chop out of his food too.

I remained chewing, smiling back up at my brother as he continued to eat his food.

It was nice talking to him. I told him everything that's been happening, of course not in all detail, but he's gotten a few insights to which he hasn't before. For one, he became aware of my recent encounter with Sebastian, and how there's an interesting new DJ to whom I've caught the eye of. My brother was into it, me telling him all the tea.

"Have you guys spoken again?" He asked me, bringing up a bite of the smoked chicken to his lips. "Sebastian?"

"No, not yet." I shook my head. "I guess seeing him again brought back all those memories... It just... Its been a while." I found my difficult to look at my brother as I spoke for I was embarrassed to see how quick I was to cry over him again. It just makes it clear how much power he still holds over me.

"I'm sure that's going to happen a few more times before you're really okay with it." My brother nodded. "It was six years of your life, El. Those kind of feelings don't necessarily just go away over night. You two have been through a lot..."

"Yeah, I guess your right." My eyes looked back at my plate and I found myself nodding again before looking up at my brother. An eyebrow slowly arched. "You know, for a kid who said he didn't have much insight in giving advice... You seam like you got a pretty solid knowledge about this stuff."

My brother smiled, shrugging his shoulders. "Sometimes kids grow up." He chuckled.

He raised his chopsticks with some food in it and was about to take a bite before he took a pause and looked up at me. "I like this." He commented.

"Me too." I nodded, crossing my arms over the table.

"We need to do this more often." He arched a brow, bringing the food into his mouth at last.

"I agree." I smiled. "Next lunch is on me."

* * *

I was feeling a whole lot better as our quick brunch came to an end. The waitress came over and cleaned up but not before she read out the choices for dessert.. Pie..

I felt my stomach turn at just the sound of it. Shaking my head, we denied the offer and she came back with a checkbook and some mint candies.

Elliot was so sweet and took the bill himself. I left the tip to make it somewhat even between us. Of course, letting someone take the whole bill would make me feel guilty. Even when I was with Bash, I always had to leave something.

Taking another breather, we both sighed. Smiling and with our bellies full, Elliot and I stood up from our seats and began to make our way out of the restaurant.

"You know, I think the neighbors brought over some pie last night too?" Elliot commented as we approached the front door.

I immediately shook my head. "Don't eat it.. It'll make you sick."

"So it was you!" He exclaimed laughing, opening up the front door and holding it out for me to pass through. "Dude maybe it made you sick because you ate the entire thing in one sitting."

"Whatever it was, I just know I regretted it." I laughed, shrugging my shoulders as I walked out.

My head was turned to my brother as he remained behind holding the door for me. This action made me miscalculate my turn and unaware of my surroundings.

As I made the turn on the curb of the store, I found myself crashing into someone who apparently was coming into the restaurant.

I quickly turned, apologizing sincerely.

"Oh my Gosh! I am so, so sorry!" My eyes looked up from the very broaden chest to gaze up into none other than the eyes of the beholder... Andrew...

"Well, well, well.." He cheekily smiled down at me. "Won't you look who it is.."

"Andrew." His name fell from my mouth. A rush of excitement like no other ran through my body. It was weird, as if his presence was what I missing from my day...

He didn't take long to cut into the small conversation mode. Of course, his charm was unnoticed.

"Nice to see you too." He smiled down at me, taking a quick glance above my shoulder where I knew he noticed my brother shutting the restaurant door behind him. I could tell this by the sudden look of insecurity in his eyes. "What brings you out here?" He asked me, eyes slowly looking back down at me.

I didn't hesitate to reply. "Came to grab a bite with my brother." I nodded, head looking over my shoulder to give Elliot a look to come closer. He did.

"Oh." Andrew was quick to smile again. You can literally see the relief flushing through him as my brother stepped besides me. Out of good manners, I introduced them both but this is definitely not what I needed right now. My brother meeting my one night stand..

"Um.. Andrew, this is my brother Elliot.. Elliot, this is Andrew... Erm.. A friend."

Jesus.. Was that even the right thing to say?

Whatever, what was said was already done and there was no going back now. All I could was smile which was exactly what I did as both guys shook hands.

"Aw cool, Man." Andrew smiled. "Nice to meet you."

Elliot smiled back. "Yeah, Man.. Nice to meet you too." He nodded.

"Were you guys coming in or..?" Andrew paused, waiting for us to finish his sentence.

Both my brother and I shook our heads.

"Oh, no." We both said.

"We were actually just leaving." My hands clapped together, fingers pointing towards the direction of our parked car.

I stopped to think for a moment and boy was I baffled. What are the odds.. We keep running into each other in a huge city like Miami where you almost never see the same person twice.. And here he is.. Walking into a Vietnamese restaurant, alone? I just had to ask..

"What a coincidence though... Us.. Running into each other." My arms crossed.

My brother sighed besides me. He knew exactly what I was doing.

"Right?" Andrew arched a brow. "My roommate actually recommended this place. He's around here looking for a parking spot." He scoffed. "Any suggestions on the food?" He glanced back at both of us.

"Their rice noodles with chicken are amazing." My brother nodded. "But God forbid you have any of their pie." He joked looking down at me.

I growled back at him, playfully punching his side. Ansel looked at us and chuckled.

"W-What's so bad about their pie?"

"Nothing." I quickly jumped in.

Andrew's eyes turned back to my brother who was quietly trying to hold in his laughter the best he could.

He calmed down after a few seconds upon noticing Andrew's eyes on him and cleared his throat. "Nah it was just a joke. Their pie is great."

Andrew remained a bit confused but didn't put much thought into it before we were soon joined by no other than his roommate himself.

I remembered the guy.. Clearly. He caught me leaving Andrew's room on our first night. I was terrified he'd bring something up about it in front of my brother. Even so, I still had to be normal..

"Oh!" Andrew smiled back at his roommate, reaching a hand out to him before patting him on the chest. "Elena, Elliot—I'd like to present to you my roommate, Oliver."

We exchanged smiles, but he focused on me the most. Reaching his hand out, he shook mine first.

"Nice to formally meet you." He arched a brow, smiling back before drawing his arm back to shake my brother's.

"Say, do you guys wanna join us?" Oliver offered.

We shook our heads but Andrew ended up explaining what we told him when he asked us a few moments before.

"They were just on their way out, Mate." Andrew replied.

"Aw bummer.." Oliver glanced back from Ansel to us. "Man I really wanted to see what this girl is all about.." He chuckled, quickly rising a reaction from Andrew as he drew his attention over to me.  "I mean, you are all he talks about, Darling."

I found myself quietly chuckling as I noticed Ansel dart up to his friend, urging him to drop the subject as he turned back to me and apologized, denying his friend's claims on his so called "crush" on me. It was adorable.. Really... Something about that just made me drawn more to him that way. It was dorky.

"Ahh.." Andrew looked down, teeth biting into bottom lip as he turned to me with his eyes closed. "Um.." He chuckled. "You weren't suppose to know that." He pointed back at me.

"It's okay." I smiled.

"Hey, well this doesn't have to end." My brother suddenly jumped in.

I turned my head to look at him. Eyes widened as I tried to reach out and ask him what the heck he was trying to do now?

He only glanced at me and smiled. Attention was now drawn to the two guys before us.

"I have a big game coming up.. Semi-Season finals... I know it's not much but you guys are welcome to come." He smiled back at me. "Elena never misses a game."

I wanted to literally kill my brother! Why is he setting up a date for me at his baseball semi-season final game?

Curiously enough, I found myself looking back at the guys, waiting for their replies.

They looked at each other but without a moment a due, they both couldn't agree more.

"Sounds great." Andrew smiled. "Count us in."

"What do you play?" Oliver asked my brother.

"Baseball." Elliot replied. "High school.. But we're pretty good."

"Ah we love baseball!" Oliver smiled back at Andrew with his fist held out in front of him.

"We do." Ansel smiled, nodding his head. "Thanks for inviting us. We'll be there for sure. Just let us know when and where."

"Awesome." My brother nodded.

In between the small moment of silence, Andrew and I exchanged a few looks. Let's just say he kept looking at me and I skied away blushing. Ugh! There was definitely something about him...

"Well, we should get going." I commented, breaking the silence as I looked up at my brother.

He nodded his head, turning to the guys to shake their hands again.

"Again, it was nice to meet you guys." Elliot smiled before turning to me once again. "I'm gonna go bring the car over, wait for me here?"

I smiled, nodding my head.

Waving back at the guys, Elliot began to jog across the street in efforts to find our parked car. In the meantime, I was left alone with Andrew and roommate Oliver.. You could begin to sense the awkwardness slowly begin to rise again.

"Nice lad." Oliver commented, pointing back at my brother. "Well, I should head in and start finding a table. Elena, it was nice to see you again." He shook my hand once more.

Smiling I nodded back. "You too, Oliver."

Patting his friend's back, Oliver was suddenly gone too.

And then there was two..

I found myself looking back at Andrew as he continued to walk a few steps closer to me. His hands were dug into the front pockets of his hoodie. Black jeans and vans slowly drawing him closer to me. Yet, I didn't move an inch.

"I'm sorry about my friend." He seemed to chuckle.

"There's no need to apologize, Andrew." I shook my head. "Really.."

His lower lip was taken hold by his teeth again, a move I began to feel seductive towards. He was just inches away now. Light eyes staring closely into mine.

"It was nice to see you, Elena." He smiled, eyes focused on my lips.

I began to grow nervous.. eyes flickering from his plump pink lips back over to his eyes. He was close but not hovering close. His distance was half and arms' length.. Not too close, but still pretty close.

What was he going to do? Was he going to reach down and kiss me?

The thought of it was killing me, because I wanted it but was too much of a coward to do it myself.

"It was nice to see you too.." I smiled, feet still standing still as he stood there for a moment.

Moments kept passing but nothing was yet to happen. I noticed him watch my lips, as if he wanted to go down and press them against his. But he restrained himself from doing so. In the end, he only seemed to smile.

Nothing was going to happen.

"Take care now." He nodded, slowly moving past me.

My body turned and watched him walk up to the door of the restaurant, his hand grabbing the door handle.

He looked back at me over his shoulder, smiling once more as it was pulled open. "I'll see you soon." He winked.

I playfully rolled my eyes, waving back at him as he finally stepped in.

You know.. I was okay with him not kissing me. I understand one night stands are nothing serious. Even though it was different with him... I don't mind taking things slow.. Really get to know him and open up little by little. We have all the time in the world and I don't plan on rushing anything the way I did with Sebastian. God knows that didn't end well.

My mind was drawn back from my own thoughts as I felt a car come to a stop behind me. I turned around an noticed my brother in his grey Dodge Charger waiting for me with his window down.

I smiled back at him, opening the car door to allow myself in.

"Well.." He paused. "How did it go?"

"How did what go?" I asked him as I put on my seatbelt.

"The guy.." He paused. "He was the DJ wasn't he?" He smirked.

Closing my eyes, I only shook my head and urged him to drive. He did but the subject wasn't dropped.

I can't believe he pinned those two together. I told him there was a DJ yes, but never any characteristics nor names were ever exchanged.

"El.. C'mon!" He begged. "Tell me..."

"Why so interested?" I chuckled looking back at him.

I still wasn't so thrilled on the whole one night stand thing. It wasn't the kind of thing I'd do. Nonetheless, something I'd share with my brother.

"Because.. Whoever that guy was, he made you happy." He paused. "I saw it in your eyes and the way you spoke to him."

The was another moment of silence. I replayed the memories of what just happened moments ago.. Him. Andrew. Maybe I wasn't aware of it then, but by replaying the scene in my mind I could sense my lips curving into a smile. He was right.

"Is that why you invited him to your game?" I turned to look at him.

Elliot's eyes were focused on the road but he took a moment to glance at me as he spoke. "Well... Yeah." He chuckled. "Because I saw the same spark in his eyes too."

Oh God.. My brother the matchmaker..

"Say whatever you want.. But you'll be thanking me later." He smiled back at me. "You need this, El.. I'm telling you."

I could only find myself smiling back at my brother, sitting back in my seat to look out the window as we drove past the city of Miami.

His face was everywhere I looked... Ansel..

Maybe my brother was right...

Maybe I do need this.