(IVANNA)
By the time Karlen returns from the pharmacy, I am practically pacing in my room, on the verge of hysteria.
"Here," he says, handing me the bag. "I brought five, just like you asked.
"Thank you. I'm sure it's nothing. I'm just stressed."
Karlen holds up his arms. "I know nothing about a woman's cycle. But I think you should check, just for peace of mind, no?"
"I know." I swallow. "Will you stay?"
"Of course, we'll go check together." I head into the bathroom and open the first box. The instructions on it seem fairly simple. Hold the stick in the pee, let it sit then read the result. Perhaps I should take two tests. Just to be sure.
Hands trembling, I open another box and pull open the paper on the stick. I hold both, then I sit down and pee. I make sure to wet each stick thoroughly then I set them on the counter, and clean them up then. I call Karlen in. He enters the room carefully as though he is afraid of startling me.
