2025

*edited for clarity*  I figured the farmer would have some questions for me after that morning, but it wouldn't be until the chores had been done, so I had some time to try to think up a story.   Or at least I thought I did.  I was making my way to the worker's quarters for dinner, when the farmer invited me up to the house for dinner.   Nervously, I followed him.   How was I supposed to explain why I had taken off in the middle of the night?  I could hardly tell him the truth.  Even if I could trust him and his wife, it would put them at too much risk.   However, it turned out I didn't have to try and figure out a story.  When we got to the kitchen, and I sat down, he slid a piece of paper over to me.  When I saw what was on it, I paled.  His wife stared at me anxiously.    "I figured you wouldn't be running without a good reason," he said, simply.  "But then I saw this hanging up at the store and...

 I knew that keeping this baby was crazy.   I was homeless and on the run, and if I  didn't get across the border before this baby was born, it was highly likely we'd both die in the harsh, unforgiving wilderness.   I wasn't afraid to die, but I wanted my child to have a chance.   If I had been smart, I would have figured out a way to end the pregnancy as soon as I found out, because this isn't a life I'd wish on anyone.  But I couldn't.  Maybe it was selfish, but I wanted this baby. I felt a connection, already, to this tiny life inside me.  If it weren't for the child I was carrying, I would have given up a long time ago.  But with every tiny flutter in my belly, I was reminded of why I had to keep going.  I would do everything in my power to keep this child safe.   But even now, I never felt truly safe.   I hoped that would change once I had crossed the border.  At night, even though I was exhau...