Chapter 19 The real coup came when I discovered Emily's pregnancy only a couple weeks after mine came to fruition . She hadn't even realized it herself , chalking up her symptoms to depression . I'd been there when she took the test , and when she looked at me , hope and fear mingling in her eyes , I'd lied without Chapter 19 hesitation . +10 Bonus " It's negative , " I'd said , my voice steady . " You're probably just stressed . " She'd nodded , her shoulders slumping in relief- or was it disappointment ? Either way , the truth stayed buried . *** " I'm quitting , " I said , standing in Louis's office with a carefully crafted expression of vulnerability . Louis looked up sharply . " Maya , wait . Why ? " I hesitated , letting the silence stretch before speaking . " I just … I need to move on . After losing the baby , I can't keep dragging you and Emily into my mess . She needs you more than I do . " His face softened , guilt etched into every line . " Maya , you're not a burden . You've been through so much- " 1/5 Chapter 19 +10 Bonus " No , " I interrupted , my voice trembling . " I've already caused enough damage . You don't have to worry about me messing up your life anymore . " His silence was exactly what I'd hoped for . When I leaned in and kissed him , he didn't pull away. That afternoon the café was buzzing with the hum of conversation and the occasional hiss of the espresso machine , but my focus locked on Emily the moment she walked through the door . She looked worn - her hair pulled into a haphazard bun , dark circles under her eyes , her clothes a little less . pristine than usual . I smiled to myself . The cracks were growing . " Emily ! " I called out , my voice bright as I waved at her . She tried to ignore me . " EMILY ! " " Maya , " she said curtly , not bothering to sit down , embarrassed by the attention I'd drawn . Her arms crossed tightly over her chest , a clear signal 2/5 Chapter 19 1 + 10 Bonus arms crossed tightly over her chest , a clear signal she wasn't in the mood for pleasantries . I stood , tilting my head , feigning concern . " You look tired . Everything okay ? " " Don't speak to me , ever again , " she said curtly , turning to leave . Her superiority made me burn with anger . " Don't walk away from me , " I said softly , smiling at her . " We've got something to discuss , Emily . " She rolled her eyes , continuing to walk away to order her coffee . I couldn't imagine her turning so bold , so spiteful . She was always meek , always easily manipulated . This was going to take more effort , but it was worth it . " So , should I talk to the police then ? " She rounded on me now , glancing at the people around my table , their own conversations simmering low . They had heard . 3/5 Chapter 19 +10 Bonus " Excuse me ? " She whispered , moving close . " I'll keep this simple , brief , " I replied , leaning closer . " Divorce Louis . Give up your assets from the marriage . Disappear . Otherwise , I'll press charges for your assault and the murder of my child . " I could feel her mood switch , see the stiffness in her slight frame . How pathetic , how weak . She didn't say a thing , her eyes wide , full of sadness and fear , the exact reaction I was hoping for . She didn't speak , turning from me toward the exit of the café . She understood even if she didn't want to . " Have a better day , Emily , " I called out to her cheerfully , sitting back down with my coffee . I would definitely have a better day .