Chapter 23 Unknowingly, half a year had passed, and my belly had grown round and unmistakable. During these months, I kept a close eye on the Palmer and Gibson families like a hawk. Every slip they made made me feel a little lighter, as if I were pulling ahead in a battle I could not afford to lose. When I first got abroad-during the divorce cooling-off period-nightmares visited me every night. I dreamed of my mother's disappointed eyes and of being trapped again in that suffocating Palmer household. This was only the first step in my war against them. I could not afford any mistakes. When I showed signs of a threatened miscarriage, my family became visibly anxious. They mposed a rule: I could only check domestic news once a week. My sister slept beside me every night. Aunt Donna invented new dishes and fussed over me laily; if I didn't finish my plate, someone sat there until I did. It was a sweet, heavy kind of care d missed, and bit by bit its comfort eased the tight coil inside me. Once the divorce became final, half the strain loosened. I began to enjoy short walks and the ttle outings my sister suggested. But as my belly grew, everyone's anxiety returned; lately ever Dad and my brother forbade me to go out. I'm fine," I protested. "I'm not due yet. If I stay cooped up in the house, I'll go mad." ad frowned. "Be sensible, Meredith. The doctor says you must rest. How about I walk you in the ark next door every day?" My brother, seeing my expression darken, quickly softened his tone. "How about this? We'll let ou out, but at least two of us must go with you. Either Dad or I has to be present, otherwise we won't feel at ease." The anger rising in me melted instantly. realized, suddenly, how spoiled I had become under their care. Seeing my silence, my sister clasped my hand, her voice gentle. "Don't be angry, Meredith. We only worry because we care. Your brother is right-just say yes." Okay." I covered my mouth and laughed softly. "So can we go out now?" Dad stood, grabbing his car keys. Let's go to the hospital first. You have a prenatal check-up today." My brother and sister immediately stood, eager to tag along. turned to Aunt Zhou. She smiled softly. 'I'll stay home and make your favorite chicken soup." 'Okay! And sweet and sour spare ribs!" I added quickly. "I want spicy chicken!" "I want tomato scrambled eggs!" "I can do it, hahaha... The house buzzed with laughter, but beneath it all, a small knot of unease stayed with me. At the hospital, the three of them peppered the doctor with questions until the doctor finally said the words we all needed to hear: the baby was healthy. Relief washed through us like warm sun. We were just stepping out when I heard someone call my name-a voice that stopped my breath "Meredith!" I turned. Three figures had already moved to stand between me and whoever was coming. Tristan stood not far away, his black suit wrinkled, his eyes bloodshot. He looked haggard, as it he'd aged years overnight. "Tristan! How dare you show up here!" My brother lunged first, landing a punch that sent him sprawling. Tristan spat blood onto the pavement. 'Brother-in-law... you're awake? That's great!" he croaked. 'Bah!" My brother punched him again. "Who's your brother? Disgusting!" 'Count me in!" My sister rolled up her sleeves, but Dad stopped her. Micah, stay with Meredith. I'll deal with this scoundrel." He stepped forward and landed two heavy blows. Tristan grimaced but didn't fight back. He only shouted hoarsely, "Meredith! I nee o talk to you!" sighed and quietly said, "Dad, brother... let's hear what he has to say." Reluctantly, they stepped back. Tristan tried to stand but was immediately held in place by two men on either side. 'Say it from there," I said calmly. He nodded, his red-rimmed eyes fixed on me. "Meredith... I finally found you. Before... everything was my fault. I know I was wrong. Please... give me a chance to make it right.