บท 56: A Chance Encounter with Emily Davis at the Mall

"Avery?" A voice, both familiar and estranged, called out suddenly.

Avery Miller opened her eyes to a woman standing before her, visibly worn with a prominent belly. Who was she? Avery stared for what felt like ages before recognition dawned.

"Is it really you?" Avery squinted, her gaze not exactly welcoming. 

Months had passed, and the woman's pregnancy was now unmistakably evident. "Looks like you're about to have the baby."

The woman awkwardly lowered her gaze and approached, "I... Do you mind if I sit here for a moment?"

Avery's stare remained fixed, a deep resentment brewing in her eyes, yet she remained silent.

The woman sat down beside her, caressing her belly with a melancholic tone, "I know you won't forgive me." Her eyes, shimmering with unshed tears, met Avery's.

Avery turned her head away, clearly uninterested in listening to any excuses.