Chapter 2007

Julia had finally conceived a child with Zac, a tangible symbol of their love. With this child, they would be forever connected. She gazed down, her hand resting gently on her stomach, a smile spreading across her face. As women aged, their maternal instincts often became more pronounced. Their initial reaction to pregnancy was naturally one of joy and fulfillment. But soon, Julia's smile faded, replaced by a worried frown. In her excitement, she had overlooked something important—contraception had always been Zac's choice. He had once told her that their lives were too unstable, that a child would only hold them back. He had claimed that a child born to a murderer wouldn't have a future, and so, he had forbidden her from getting pregnant. In these seven years together, she had endured five abortions for him. Deep down, she couldn't shake the fear that this child's fate might be no different. The thought made her heart sink, and she frowned involuntarily. "Ms. Sparks, are you wi