Worried sick

JESSICA

Sebastian’s mother welcomes me to her home with open arms, as I had known she would. Once upon a time, she had practically been a mother to me, that is until my kidnap and Sebastian’s marriage to another woman. After that, I shut myself off from everyone, until now, that is.

“Jessica, honey. How are you? You look so radiant and beautiful, much better than the last time I saw you. That is for sure. You put on some weight … I mean that in a good way. How have you been?” She asks, giving me a long, strong hug of affection that I hadn’t even been aware that I needed. I revel in the hug and immediately feel at home, breathing in her familiar scent.

“I’ve been fine, Mrs. James,” I reply and she nods, looking me over once again. Her shrewd gaze lingers on my belly, but she does not say anything.

“Hello, Jessica. Welcome. We’ve been awaiting your arrival.” A male voice says, and I whirl around to see a somewhat familiar-looking man looking at us with kind eyes.

“This is Donald, Carol’