A Bitter Miracle

"Ms. Ashcroft, your HCG and progesterone levels are significantly higher than usual. You have been pregnant for a month or so. Congratulations, you’re going to be a mother!"

The nurse's cheerful voice aggressively echoed inside Vivienne's ringing ears. Sitting in the sterile, brightly lit doctor's office, Vivienne stared down at the crisp medical report in her trembling hands, consumed by sheer,