Chapter 39

Christian stared at Isabelle as if waiting for an explanation. The nurse blinked slowly, taking in her own words. They sank excruciatingly slowly, her mind delaying in making the connection. There was an almost palpable yet stunning silence in the hospital patient room.

"Y-you..." Christian faltered. He bent, placing his hands over his knees, trying to suppress the waves of acid that welled up in his stomach. Isabelle put one hand out in defense, fingers wide. She opened her mouth, uncertain as to whether to scream, cry, or talk.

"Did you..." Christian blinked with incredulity. "I can't be." Isabelle hugged herself, whispering with her eyes staring into space. Sean hung his head, taking in the seriousness of the situation. He almost felt sorry for his friends, but he could see a bright future for them once they got over the news. Instead of leaving, Sean sat on the green sofa just to make sure no violence eventuated.

Once the wave of nausea passed, Christian stood up, his muscles in