A Cry for Help

Ashley walked out of the coffee shop, feeling defeated and alone. The conversation with Jordan had not gone as she had hoped, and she couldn't shake off the feeling of uncertainty that had settled in her stomach. She had been hoping that he would be supportive and excited about the baby, but instead, he seemed distant and unsure. As she walked, Ashley's mind wandered to Karen, her friend and confidante. She had always been a source of comfort and guidance, and Ashley knew that she could trust her with anything. With a newfound sense of determination, Ashley pulled out her phone and dialed Karen's number. "Hey, girl, what's up?" Karen answered, her voice cheerful and bright. Ashley took a deep breath before blurting out the news. "I'm pregnant," she said, her voice shaking. There was a pause on the other end of the line, and for a moment, Ashley wondered if she had lost the connection. But then Karen's voice came back, filled with excitement and concern. "Oh my god, Ash, congratulations! How are you doing?" Ashley sighed, feeling a mix of emotions. "I'm okay, I guess. I just had a conversation with Jordan, and it didn't go well." Karen's tone changed, becoming more serious. "What happened?" Ashley filled Karen in on the details, leaving out nothing. She told her about Jordan's reaction, about how he seemed unsure and distant. Karen listened attentively, making supportive noises along the way. When Ashley finished, Karen let out a sympathetic sigh. "I'm so sorry, Ash. That must have been really tough for you." Ashley nodded, even though Karen couldn't see her. "It was. I was hoping he would be more supportive, but I guess I was wrong." Karen's voice was firm. "Don't worry, Ash. We'll get through this together. You and the baby are not alone." Ashley felt a surge of gratitude towards her friend. She knew that she could count on Karen, no matter what. "Thanks, Karen. I really appreciate it. Can I come over and talk to you in person?" Karen's response was immediate. "Of course, girl. Come on over. I'll make us some tea, and we can talk about everything." Ashley smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She knew that she was in good hands with Karen. She hailed a taxi and headed to Karen's place, Theo's cheerful face greeting her as she walked in the door. "Ash, what's going on?" Theo asked, his eyes sparkling with concern. Ashley took a deep breath before launching into the story, with Karen listening intently beside him. As she spoke, Ashley felt a weight lift off her shoulders. She knew that she still had a long way to go, but with Karen and Theo by her side, she felt like she could face anything.