Chapter 9 - A Breath of Fresh Air
Three months later, the spring flowers had finally begun to bloom in Lincoln Square. The scent of lilacs and fresh rain filled the air, and the neighborhood was alive with the sound of children playing in the park.
Lucy stood in the kitchen of her apartment, her thirty-eight-week belly now a massive, beautiful sphere that made it difficult to reach the sink. She was wearing a simple yellow maternity dress, her hair tied up in a loose bun, her face carrying a soft, healthy glow that had been entirely absent during the dark winter months.
She was preparing a nursery in the small room next to hers, painting the walls a soft, warm green and hanging small, wooden animals from a mobile above the crib.
The door opened, and Maya walked in, carrying a large bag of groceries and a fresh bouquet of tulips.
"How is our little warrior today?" Maya asked, setting the flowers on the table.
"Active," Lucy laughed, placing her hand over a sudden, sharp kick that sent a small ripple across her stomach. "I think she’s ready to meet the world."
"The divorce was finalized this morning, Lucy," Maya said gently, stepping closer and wrapping her arm around her friend’s shoulders. "Arthur called. The judge signed the papers. You are officially Lucy Miller again. The house in Portage Park has been sold, and your portion of the equity has been deposited into the baby’s trust fund."
Lucy let out a long, slow breath. It felt like a heavy steel band had finally been cut from her chest, letting her lungs expand to their full, natural capacity.
"Thank you, Maya," she whispered.
May you like
"For what?"
"For not letting me stay in that dark elevator," Lucy said, her eyes shining with tears that were no longer carrying any pain. "For helping me find the light."
