"A Life-Changing Confession"

Ashley stood outside Gerald's office building, her heart racing with anxiety. She had been putting off this conversation for days, but she couldn't avoid it any longer. Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself and stepped into the elevator. The doors opened on the top floor, and Ashley was greeted by a sleek, modern lobby with a stunning view of the city. She had never been to Gerald's office before, but she had heard him talk about his job as a marketing executive. As she walked towards the reception desk, a poised young woman with a bright smile looked up from her computer. "Can I help you?" she asked, eyeing Ashley's casual attire. "I'm here to see Gerald Gilliam," Ashley replied, trying to sound confident. The receptionist checked her schedule and nodded. "He's available. Right this way." Ashley followed the woman to a spacious office with a stunning view of the city. Gerald was sitting behind his desk, a phone pressed to his ear. He motioned for Ashley to take a seat, and she sat down, trying to calm her nerves. As Gerald finished his call, he flashed Ashley his charming smile. "Hey, beautiful. What brings you here?" he asked, leaning back in his chair. Ashley took a deep breath and plunged ahead. "Gerald, we need to talk," she said, her voice trembling slightly. Gerald's expression turned serious, and he set his pen down on the desk. "What's up?" Ashley hesitated, her heart pounding in her chest. "I'm pregnant," she said, the words spilling out of her mouth. The room fell silent, and Ashley held her breath, waiting for Gerald's reaction. His face was expressionless, and for a moment, Ashley wondered if he was even listening to her. Then, Gerald's eyes narrowed, and he leaned forward, his elbows on his desk. "What are you talking about, Ashley?" he asked, his voice low and even. Ashley's anxiety spiked, and she felt a wave of fear wash over her. She had prayed that Gerald wouldn't react badly, but now she wasn't so sure. "I've taken a test," she said, trying to keep her voice steady. "I'm pregnant." Gerald's expression didn't change, and Ashley couldn't read him. She felt like she was staring into a void, unsure of what was going to happen next. And then, Gerald spoke, his voice sending a chill down Ashley's spine. "We need to talk about this," he said, his eyes glinting with a mixture of surprise and concern.