Chapter 42: Uncertainty and Fear

The next morning, Karen and Ashley sat in the car, headed to the doctor's office. The silence between them was palpable, with Ashley's nervous energy radiating like a palpable force. Karen reached over and took Ashley's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Hey, it's going to be okay," Karen said, trying to reassure her. "We'll get through this together, no matter what the doctor says." Ashley nodded, but her eyes were fixed on the dashboard, her face pale. "What if I am?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. Karen's grip on her hand tightened. "Then we'll deal with it, okay? We'll figure it out together. You're not alone in this, Ashley." Ashley took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing thoughts. She had been dreading this doctor's appointment all morning, and now that it was finally here, she felt like she was going to be sick. As they pulled into the doctor's parking lot, Karen turned off the engine and turned to Ashley. "You can do this," she said, smiling reassuringly. "I'm right here with you." Ashley nodded, trying to muster up some courage. She got out of the car, her legs feeling like jelly beneath her. Karen was right behind her, her hand still clasped around Ashley's. The doctor's office was warm and welcoming, with a friendly receptionist greeting them and asking them to take a seat. Ashley sat down, her heart racing in her chest. She could feel Karen's eyes on her, but she didn't dare look up. A few minutes later, the doctor called Ashley's name, and she stood up, her legs trembling. Karen stood up with her, and together they followed the doctor into the exam room. The doctor was a kind-faced woman with a warm smile. "So, Ashley, I understand you're concerned you might be pregnant?" she said, nodding at Karen. Ashley nodded, feeling a wave of fear wash over her. The doctor nodded sympathetically and began the examination. As they waited for the results, Ashley felt like she was going to die of anxiety. What if she was pregnant? What would happen next? She glanced over at Karen, who was watching her with a calm, reassuring expression. Karen's eyes met Ashley's, and she smiled. "Whatever it is, sweetie, we'll face it together," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Ashley took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing thoughts. She knew that with Karen by her side, she could face anything.