TWENTY FIVE

Still, in Birdie's arms, she hums a lullaby as she used to whenever I cried or was sick since I was a kid. It always helps. Her sweet voice can be the best soother for my nerves.

"Grandma?" I sniffled and croaked out to her.

"Mmh?"

Grandma was brushing my hair as she hummed. "You're not mad at me?"

She stopped humming and positioned me to sit in front of her. "How could I be mad at you?"

"Because-" I looked away and bit my lower lip.

"Oh, pumpkin," Birdie gently brought my face in front of hers as I saw her soft eyes. "I completely understand. I was in your position, you know?" She chuckled.

"But, you hate men who would leave the women and the baby. You detest them, and I know how much you loathe those types of men. You would lecture single pregnant women never to let a man use them as a tool. You hated those types because of -" I reasoned, catching a breath and expecting to see Birdie's face twisted, but it wasn't.

"Lily, sweetie," Birdie sighed and brushed my hair back. "I act like