Chapter Fifty-five

Two days after that harrowing experience, Erin was sitting alone in the women’s hut when Rowana came running in with a tear-stained face and completely hysterical.

“I am in trouble!” She said to Erin. “My life is over!”

“Calm down, Rowana. Tell me, what is it?”

Rowana looked about wildly as if to make sure that they were indeed alone before she leaned toward Erin and whispered, “I am with child.”

Erin gasped. She knew the implication of this development and she understood why the other woman was beside herself with fear. “Are you certain?”

“Yes. My bleeding has not come for the past three months and this is the fourth month now.”

“Well, there could be other explanations for that,” said Erin, hopefully.

“No, Edvana. It is only a matter of time before it becomes public knowledge. Look at me,” she said and stood up so that Erin could see her stomach. Her lower belly was slightly protruded, a clear indication that her pregnancy was well into the second trimester already.

“Oh,” said Erin w