A wave of relief washed over Chloe as the message was sent. From now on, she did not have to compromise or accept that child. And she would not have to see Xavia anymore. She yearned to leave behind this unhealthy relationship and pursue a normal life.
Curling up on the couch, she gazed out the window at the soaring birds in the sky, longing for the same sense of freedom. In the past, when the Johnsons had oppressed her, her greatest dream was to earn enough money to travel across the country. But now that she had the money, she was carrying a child…
Life was just never perfect.
Chloe's mind was in turmoil, yet oddly clear at the same time. She sat quietly for a while before calling Emily to assure her that she was safe.
"What?! You broke up with Joseph?!" Emily's voice boomed through the phone, resonating in Chloe's ears.
"Yes, and lower your voice. My ear is ringing," Chloe replied.
"Sorry, I was just really surprised," Emily apologized, "You initiated the breakup?"
"Yes. After Xavia was confirmed to be pregnant with Joseph's child, she wasted no time in seeing him as soon as she received the amniocentesis results. She made quite a spectacle in front of me."
"Ugh, does she have no shame? Is getting pregnant with someone else's husband something to be proud of?"
"Let's not talk about her. I might turn off my phone for a while, so if you need anything, send me a text, and I'll reply when I see it."
"Are you worried that Joseph will bother you?"
Pinching her brow, Chloe said self-mockingly, "Bother me? I'll be grateful as long as he doesn't get angry."
Given Joseph's terrible temper, it was unlikely he would tolerate being dumped. Maybe he would not even call her. She had been deluding herself.
"But it's his fault..." Emily grumbled in dissatisfaction.
It took two to tango. Even if Xavia was problematic, Joseph was equally at fault too.
"I went back on my words too. I can't accept that kid."
"Don't blame yourself for everything. This isn’t your fault." Emily's voice carried strength as she reassured Chloe. "Even if you've lost love, you still have friendship. Whatever decision you make, I'll support you. Don't underestimate yourself, your prime years have just begun. Besides, it's cool to be a hot mom!"
Chloe was touched, her eyes welling up with tears. People came and went in her life, but Emily had been there for her since the beginning and not left. This friendship was rare and precious.
"Yes, I will. I'll plan my future life well," Chloe replied.
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