A wife aids in the home birth of her neighbor’s baby, only to realize the child’s father is her own husband.
Sarah Harper had been neighbors with Erica Vernon for six years. Both couples, the Harpers and the Vernons, moved into their homes the same week and quickly became friends as they were all newlyweds at the time.
However, within a few years, Sarah noticed that Erica’s marriage to Lester Vernon was deteriorating. Lester’s jealousy and suspicions made Erica’s life increasingly difficult. Sarah felt sorry for Erica, who she believed was as loyal to her husband as Sarah was to her own husband, Kieran.
As time passed, the situation worsened. The frequent loud arguments from the Vernons’ home led to a cessation of joint outings, and Sarah often saw Erica looking tearful and distressed. Lester was always cordial to Sarah but never allowed her the chance to defend her friend.
One day, Sarah confronted Lester at the supermarket. “Lester,” she cautiously began, “I hate seeing you both so miserable. Have you considered couple’s therapy? Erica really loves you…”
Lester stared at her before responding sharply, “Sarah, I wouldn’t vouch for Erica if I were you. You think she’s your ally, but she’s not.” With that, he walked away.
Three weeks later, Lester left Erica, who then revealed to Sarah that she was three months pregnant. “Did you tell him?” Sarah inquired.
Amidst tears, Erica replied, “I did, Sarah, but he accused me of cheating! I can’t raise this baby alone.”
Sarah reassured her, “You won’t have to. Kieran and I will support you every step of the way.” Overwhelmed, Erica embraced Sarah, grateful for her support.
That evening, Sarah discussed the situation with Kieran, who was less than enthusiastic about the commitment. “Sarah, I really wish you hadn’t been so impulsive. It’s a huge responsibility,” he said.
“We’ve been their neighbors for six years, Kieran!” Sarah exclaimed. “She’s my best friend, and I thought you liked her.”
“Not really,” Kieran admitted. “She’s more your friend than mine.”
Trying to win him over, Sarah playfully kissed him and said, “Please, for me, let’s help her. She’s all alone.”
Kieran reluctantly agreed after some playful persuasion.
Thus, Sarah accompanied Erica to her prenatal appointments, nutritionist visits, and childbirth classes. However, Erica insisted, “I’m definitely having this baby in a hospital with plenty of painkillers, even though it’s good to be prepared!”
One afternoon, the moment arrived unexpectedly when Erica’s water broke. Sarah rushed to her side, only to realize the baby was arriving sooner than anticipated. As Sarah helped deliver the baby, she noticed a familiar small hard bump on the baby’s neck—a ‘lucky bump’ just like Kieran’s.
Confronted with this undeniable proof, Sarah realized the painful truth.
“Lester was right, wasn’t he, Erica? You were having an affair with my husband,” Sarah accused.
Desperate, Erica confessed, “Yes, he’s Kieran’s. We’ve been together for years. Please, don’t hurt the baby!”
“I would never hurt him,” Sarah replied coldly. “Unlike you, I don’t destroy lives.” She left Erica with her newborn, waiting alone for medical help.
That evening, Sarah left Kieran a note—“I want a divorce”—took her belongings, and disappeared from his life, eventually finding happiness and trust again with a new partner.
What can we take away from this story?
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