"What happened?" I turned to Alex, my hand tentatively caressing his arm while he gripped it gently, offering me a slight squeeze as if seeking comfort.
"My mom died giving birth to me, and ever since I was born, my dad and Andrew never liked me. I don't blame them, Emma," Alex paused, his voice tinged with sadness, and my heart ached for him, "But you're blaming yourself."
"How could I not?" He whispered, "I took my mom away from them. I know it's not my fault, but none of this would have happened if she wasn't pregnant with me."
A flicker of understanding crossed my eyes as I met his gaze. "But I'm sure your mom never regretted it."
He raised an eyebrow, curiosity glimmering in his expression. "How can you be so sure?"
"Because..." My hand moved tenderly, tracing gentle circles on my belly, "I'm also going to be a mom, and I think I can understand your mom a little."
