I stood up, walked to her, and pulled her into a hug. All the anger and fear melted away, replaced by love for my little sister, who was going through something terrifying.
“What did you decide?” I whispered.
“I’m keeping the baby,” she said through tears. “Even if I have to raise them alone, I want this child.”
I nodded, holding her tighter. “You won’t be alone. You have me. Always.”
Looking at Jack later that night after Patrice had gone home, I felt something I hadn’t expected. Gratitude.
He’d stepped up when my sister needed help.
He’d supported her through something scary, not because he had to, but because that’s who he is.
Eventually, the baby’s father did come around. He and Patrice didn’t become a couple, but they figured out how to co-parent.
And our family, though shaken by secrets, grew stronger.
