Hello everyone,
My name Shalom.
Thank you for reading till the end, I'm happy I wrote this story, it's not perfect but I believe it taught you a thing or two.
Okay..
Chances are you are going to make a mistake, or should I say mistakes, chances are you are going to fall, chances are you are gonna cry so hard sometimes, chances are you are gonna feel embarrassed at some point you wish you could die, chances are people are going to betray you, chances are you are going to fall into sin, chances are you are going to be laughed at, mocked, scorned, lost, rejected, lonely, hated but that's life.
For every mistake, there is a chance to remake your decision, for every fall, there is a chance to rise again, for every tears, there is a chance to laugh again, for every betrayal, there is a chance for you to get a true true friendship, for every evil word, scornful words thrown at you, there is a chance for you to throw it back at them by proving yourself that you are stronger than it all.
It's a new year another chance for you to rise up again.
Well, I wish you all the best this year.
Love you all.
Peace.
Penshalom

Episode 23
SAPPHIRE
Song: Jaymikee- Free (Haunted Theme song)

I gave birth to my baby after a lot of deep breaths, screams, prayers and tears but the baby brought joy to our faces, it was worth it.
She is so beautiful, taking the blue eyes if her father.
Jordan stayed back for a month and he has been very supportive, he's been a good father to the baby.
He comes and goes but he's always in contact asking about my health and that of Sapphire, yes, that's the baby's name.
I stopped thinking and decided to focus on reality which is now, the choir is about to minister and I'm leading it.
I breathed in deeply as I took the microphone, my choir leader smiled at me and I smiled back.
I signaled to the instrumentalists and they started playing as I sang along to it.

Verse 1
"I was running away from the truth
Because they say that the truth isn’t sweet
I was living a lie in the dark
Because I was afraid of what my eyes could see
You see until that fateful day
When the power took over me
And it opened up my eyes
now I’m a different entity
you see there’s no more running
and there is no more hiding
because those days are gone

Chorus
Allow me to introduce myself
I’m not the one you used to know
I am a brand new man, I am a brand new man
Look at me from head to toe
And see the power that is shining
From the inside out, from the inside out
I am sanctified, I am purified,
And He is glorified, by His hand of salvation
I am justified, and I am in the light
Just to testify, I am Free

Verse 2
You can never comprehend the thought
How I was taken from the darkness into light
You can never comprehend the feeling
How I was wondering around and I was found
That’s why I’m never going back
Instead, I’m moving forward,
Because the yolk is broken
And the chains are destroyed
Because I am on fire,
And I’m burning on high
that old me is no more
(Chorus)

Bridge
I am free (X12)
If you believe you can raise your voice and sing it…
I’m saying goodbye to the man I was before
I am free…"

I sang and danced to the song the whole church singing along with me, tears falling for my eyes as I remembered everything right up to this moment.
I am free.
I had another chance and I took it.
THE END.
Penshalom

Episode 22
Song: Steve Crown- You are great

4 MONTHS LATER.
I laid down on my bed staring at the sonogram, tears of joy running down my eyes, I rubbed my stomach which is now big.
"It's a girl" The doctor had said earlier.
"So I'm gonna be having a niece" Dave said grinning.
"Yes. Vera wins"
Dave groaned, him and Vera have been arguing about the sex of the baby for a while now, Dave claims its a boy because the baby moves around a lot, Vera claims it's a girl because she just knows it, well Vera won.
"Oh whatever. I'm going to be an Uncle all the same. The best Uncle ever."
"Hey girl. I am Uncle Dave and I'm gonna spoil you so bad." Dave said to my stomach.
I smiled down at Dave, I know he's gonna be the best Uncle anyone can have.
Vera barged into the room.
"So how was the result?" She said immediately she came in.
I gave her the sonogram, she stared at it.
"I don't understand this. It's the baby I know but what's the sex? Dave?"
"Well.." Dave said looking everywhere but at Vera.
"It's a girl isn't it?" Vera asked.
"Yes" I told her.
She jumped up laughing happily.
"I knew it. Take that Dave"
"Whatever" Dave waved her off and Vera stuck her tongue out at him. She pushed Dave off and she talked to the baby too.
"Hello baby. I'm Vera but you can call me V because I'm cool like that. I'm gonna be the best godmother ever." Dave huffed at her.
"She's gonna love me more than you you know" Dave said.
"Keep telling yourself that. I'm cooler than you so she's gonna love me more than you."
"Shut up Aunt V" Dave said as he walked out.
"Come back here Uncle Dave, you brat" Vera said as she walked out after him, I could here there arguments from downstairs.
"You got no problem baby." I smiled at my stomach rubbing it.
I told my parents about it when they got back, my Mom was so excited, my Dad sulked a bit, I guess he and Mom also had arguments about the sex of the baby.

3 MONTHS LATER.
I was in the sitting room watching TV, I decided not to go to school today, I was feeling slightly weak and my back was killing me. It's evening time so everyone is home except for Vera.
"Is Vera not coming over?" Dave asked me.
"I don't know. She's probably sleeping over at her parents' tonight"
"Oh" Dave said and I heard the disappointment in his voice, he flipped the comic book in his hands in a way that showed he is annoyed.
"Are you angry that Vera might not come?"
"No" He answered quickly, too quickly.
"Dave, do you have a crush on Vera?" I said teasing him.
"What? No" He snapped at me jumping up.
"Why are you getting so worked up? I was just joking."
"Oh" He said and sat back down.
"Just so you know I don't have a crush on Vera."
"Okay" I said still lying on the couch.
"I don't like her"
"I said okay Dave"
The door bell rang and Dave ran to the door.
"Hey V. Why are you here this late..." I stopped when I saw the person behind her.
"Jordan" I whispered but Dave heard me.
"He is the Jordan. You are the Jordan? What do you want?" Dave said almost shouting.
"Vera contacted me" Jordan said all the while staring at my stomach.
"Vera? You brought him here?"
"Can we all just sit down please?" Vera said and went to take a seat and Jordan did the same, Dave ran upstairs to call our parents.
They all came down and met us all in silence.
"So you are Jordan?" My Dad said after a while assessing him silently.
"Uh yes I am." Jordan said his voice hoarse.
"Why are you here?"
"I heard about the baby so I came back."
Dave scoffed.
"You heard about the baby, where were you all this time?" Dave asked his voice rising.
"Dave." My Dad said cautioning him.
"Where were you all this time?" My Dad repeated Dave's question.
"England. I work there. I didn't know about the baby until Vera called me, if I knew I would have come back quicker."
"What if there was no baby would you have come?" I asked staring at him angrily.
"Felicia I'm sorry"
"You are sorry? Where were you after that night? All I got was a freaking note? Do you know how embarrassed I was when I went out and saw three adults staring at me thinking I am a call girl? Where were you when I found out I was pregnant? Where were you when I was depressed? Where were you Jordan?"
"Calm down Fe, please" Vera sat me down gently rubbing my back.
"I'm sorry. I'm truly sorry." Jordan said.
"Are you taking responsibility for the baby?" Dad asked in a hard voice.
"Y.. Yes sir. I will do the best I can to take care of the baby."
"No, you are going to do all you can to take care of the baby."
"Yes sir. I will."
Vera told us she went back to our highschool and talked to my old music teacher, she explained the situation and he gave her his contact.
My breathing got heavier and I started feeling a little pain, suddenly I felt something splash on my feet.
"Eww, what's that?" Dave asked scrunching his nose.
"Her water just broke you idiot" Vera shouted.
It was like something just clicked in the brain of everyone and the house became a chaos.
I was moved gently to the car, my Dad driving very fast, Jordan driving closely behind us, Dave and Vera breathing heavily beside me.
I smiled even through the pain.
I know I will be okay.
Penshalom

Stay tuned for the last episode, coming in in few minutes

Oroolorun:
You almost had me emotional reading the pastor comment.
.
.
judging others as if we are a saint ourself
.
we are all guilty one way or the other and yet we want God to keep forgiven us over and over again when we keep on sinning.
.
ride on boss.

Lol
Yeah, no one's perfect o

rayvelez:
I always love ur story, so captivating and educative.

Aww
Thank you dear

Episode 21
TEARS AND APOLOGIES
Song: Mike Abdul- Korede

Dad got out of the car without saying a word, my Mom was so happy, she opened the door for me while Dave carried my bag and Vera held my hand as I walked into my home.
I entered my room after a long time, the sheets looked rumpled.
"Dave sleeps here." My Mom said when she caught me staring at the bed.
"You do too" Dave said his cheeks slightly pink.
I smiled at them.
"Are you hungry?" My Mom said.
"Yes. Yes I am" I replied her.
"I will rush downstairs and prepare something for you, Just stay here and rest, you went through enough stress today. Vera and Dave let's leave her to rest. I will wake you up when I'm done." My Mom said excitedly.
They all went out but my Mom stayed behind.
"I'm so happy you are back home."
"Me too Mom"
She grinned and then ran downstairs, I laid on my bed, today was really surprising, mostly good surprise. I smiled and slept off.

VERA WOKE ME up and placed the food for me. I rose up and carried the tray on my laps and started eating while she played away with my laptop.
The meal was really delicious, after I was done, I picked up one of the apples on the tray and sink my teeth moaning at its sweetness.
"Have you eaten?" I asked Vera.
"You asked me this after you finished eating? You are so cruel" Vera said dramatically.
"Oh I'm so sorry madam. What do I do to make you forgive me?"
"You can start by giving me that juicy apple on the tray." Vera said pointing at the apple.
"You've been eyeing this since haven't you?"
"You know me so well."
I shook my head at her and threw the apple at her.
"Thank you. I will take the tray downstairs."
"No. I can take it down myself"
"Nope. Sit down. Let big sis do this for you okay?"
"Yes ma'am" I gave her a mock salute.
A knock interrupted our little drama.
"Come in" Vera shouted.
"Seriously V, you wanna block my ears?"
She was about to reply but seeing the person that came in stopped her.
"Evening sir" Vera greeted my Dad.
"Evening Vera" My Dad said and smiled.
"I'll excuse you both" Vera said and bolted out leaving me with my Dad.
"Erm. You can take your seat" I said.
He sat beside me on the bed, it was so awkward, no one said a word.
"Dad I'm…"
"Felicia I'm…"
We both said at the same time.
"You first" He said.
"I'm sorry Dad. I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to do this but I was just so angry at you that day and I wanted to make you mad, so mad that I lost my common sense. I should have thought it through but at that time I was blinded by anger and lust. I'm sorry for bringing you shame."
He was quiet for a while before he spoke up too.
"I'm sorry too. I should have been a better father to you but I messed up, I messed up so bad. I thought I was doing the right thing by being strict with you both but I was wrong. I'm sorry for the cruel words. I'm the one at fault here not you. I should have shown you love. I failed you as a father. I'm so sorry Felicia"
"I'm sorry too Dad" I whispered with tears falling down my eyes and then he pulled me into his arms.
I hugged my Dad for the first time, I cried into his shoulder and I felt him doing the same not as loud as mine anyway.
We pulled from the hug both of us sniffing and wiping our eyes.
"So how is baby?"
"The baby is fine"
"Do you know anything about the father?"
"Just that he was our substitute music teacher and his name is Jordan, that's all"
"So he doesn't know you are pregnant?"
I nodded my head to confirm his words.
"It's okay, God got us" My Dad wrapped his hand around my shoulder and I leaned on his shoulder.
"Well well well, this is really surprising"
Dave said after barging into the room.
"Come here son" Dave sat on the other side of the bed.
"I'm sorry for the way I treated you. I've learned my lesson and I promise I'm gonna change."
"It's cool Dad. We are cool" Dave said smiling.
My Dad grinned and put his other hand around Dave as we both leaned on his shoulders and that's how Mom and Vera met us.
Everything is cool.
Penshalom

Just two more episodes to go..
Peace

DemiKOL:
Hmm..........

Lesson learnt!

Keep it up. More grace

Thanks dear

Oroolorun:
Your story is WOW!
But pls next time you want to write an inspirational story like this, pls write it with an african home. nothing inspire a black guy or lady than knowing some1 out there (without white privilege) overcome challenges.
RIDE ON BOSS

Thank you for this

samwobi:
Wonderful Piece I Must Say

Thank you

Royaldave200:
Nice... I couldn't help but visualize the whole scene..more ink to your pen dear.

Amen, thank you

0x0n3:
xo i ended my day at work to read this post now i have to shift 1/4 of my today's work to tomorrow well no regret sha cox i learn one or two things from the story. nyc write up it is @penshalom

Lol, thanks o

vickyluvspices:
penshalom i think i like...no i was about to say i love u,am deeply touched by every single episodes and what lesson it portrays...just keep it up girl...u are really gud.

Thank you dear, I appreciate it

Royaldave200:
Nice... I couldn't help but visualize the whole scene..more ink to your pen dear.

Amen, thank you

Episode 20
CAST THE FIRST STONE
Song: Frank Edwards- Changing Lives

Sunday came faster than normal, V is right, I can't keep running from them forever but the thought of facing all those people scares me, my Dad, my choir leader. My baby bump is already showing, I can't really hide it anymore but I still try to, this is why I'm putting on a loose flowery gown which is slightly below the knee.
"Maybe we should just do this another time" I said nervously to Vera as we got to the church's parking lot.
"Nah, you will keep pushing it, we are gonna do this today. I'll be there for you through it all, Dave will be there for you." She squeezed my hands affectionately and smiled at me.
She held my sweaty hand in hers and we walked into the church me trembling and sweating all over.
"You'll be fine Fe" She said to me quietly.
We entered and thankfully it was during the worship session and almost everyone had there eyes closed.
Vera and I sat at the back, Dave sighted us and came to sit with us.
I closed my eyes allowing the music to flow through me, tears fell from my eyes, I miss this.
When the worship session was over, all eyes were opened, and then the drama began, starting from those sitting beside us.
I saw someone shake his head and one of them gave me a look of disappointment after staring blatantly at my stomach which I tried to cover up with my hands, the stare unnerving me.
I saw from the corner of my eyes Dave looking at the lady who looked away, he probably glared at her.
All throughout the service I felt so uncomfortable, I felt like everyone is staring at me, I almost ran out at some point but I still stayed still where I was. My Dad's eyes met mine, he looked shocked at first, then a look of concern before he blinked and turned his eyes away from mine plastering a smile on his face and then began his message.

I WENT TO sit outside under a tree alone after we were done with the service, V had to go attend to some things and Dave went to the restroom. I felt someone tap me and I looked up to see my choir leader. I stood up playing with my fingers looking down in shame, tears falling from my eyes.
She pulled me to a warm hug and patted my back gently.
"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry" I whimpered.
"It's okay my child, it's okay"
"Hello ma'am" Someone's voice interrupted us, I wiped my eyes.
"Hi Ms. Finn" My choir leader replied. I looked at Ms. Finn and greeted her but she did not reply me.
"My wonderful daughter will like to join the choir, she has a really lovely voice. I believe you will need someone now, now that someone has given herself to sexual immorality" Ms. Finn said looking at me with disdain.
"Ms. Finn" My choir leader shouted at her. I just stood there shocked at her words. She was one of the people I respected in church, I never knew she can be someone to talk this way.
"Well is that not the truth?" Ms. Finn said still giving me an irritating look.
"You didn't have to word it that way, you are embarrassing the poor girl." My choir leader stated.
"She's the one that is an embarrassment. To the church and even to her parents. Imagine a 18 year old carrying a baby. A pastor's child"
Before I knew few women had join, some were looking at me with disdain, some were throwing words at me. I looked around searching for someone to help me but I found no one, I saw familiar faces but now they were more like strangers.
"What are you doing?" I looked up to see Vera an angry look on her face and Dave behind her.
"Daughter you should not be friends with this girl. She's going to influence you."
"Birds of the same feather flock together you know" Someone said from behind.
"What the.." I heard someone say.
"What are you all doing to my daughter?" I heard my Mom say from behind.
Everyone kept quiet for a while before Ms. Finn spoke up.
"With due respect ma'am, your daughter is an embarrassment to everyone, she has shamed us all…"
"Who are you to call my own daughter an embarrassment?" My Mom said with anger by now the crowd has become more.
"Because she made one simple mistake she has become an outcast? Were you not all the ones praising her and now you are using that same mouth to insult her?"
"But ma'am she's supposed to be an example. She was one of the lead voices, a worship leader, she ended falling into the sin of immorality, sexual immorality and got knocked up. She should be kicked out" Ms Finn said with a sneer.
"Whoever is without sin among you let him throw a stone at her first" I was shocked to hear that voice, I looked up to see my Dad.
"S--sir?" Ms. Finn said stuttering.
"Whoever has no sin among you all let him or her be the first to cast her out of the church." My Dad stated firmly.
Everyone was silent, passing glances at each other. Ms. Finn left first, followed by another, another and another and then it was just me, my family and Vera.
I looked at my Dad, my vision blurred with tears, I never expected him to come, I never expected him to support me. We stared at each other for a while before he looked away first.
"Let's go every one. Get in my car."
We all followed him to his car as he drove off, the car was silent through out.
I didn't take note of my environment until I felt someone shake me.
"Fe" Vera said happily.
"Oh we are here already?"
It was then I looked around and realized we are not at Vera's house.
Dad brought me back home.
Penshalom

Let's not throw people away or cast them aside for their mistakes, you ain't perfect neither am I. You could make a mistake worse than theirs.. Let's show ourselves love.
And thanks for the comments, I can't explain how happy I am to see your comments.. Love you guys.

DemiKOL:
Nice story you have here!

Lemme just sit and enjoy....

Keep it up.

Thank you

pweetymhi:
hmmmm Fe it gonna be well,a.mistake doesn't mean d end of d world.
penshalom u make me drool,ur stories are always outstanding. keep it up.

Aww, thanks hon

Episode 19
THE BABY
Song: Nathaniel Bassey- Olowogbogboro

A WEEK LATER
I got lucky that I still had a chance to go to college even after a month. Vera encouraged me to tell my Mom about it and that's exactly what I did. I told her my decision and she said she was going to support me.
Well, now I can say I'm a college student.
I go to the local college in my town just thirty minutes to my home, I mean Vera's home, all I need now is a job to support myself, I can't be depending on my Mom and Vera's parents all the time, it's really embarrassing.
"I still don't know why you need a job, think of the baby" Vera complained as she parked in front of popular coffee shop very close to the school who I heard are presently hiring.
"That's the reason I'm getting this job, because of the baby. I need to start saving up and buying baby things. And also it's a shop where I can get fruit juices probably for free and that's also for the baby" I winked at her before I walked out of the car to the coffee shop with Vera behind me.
We entered, the shop is a little bit scanty maybe because it's midday. We moved to the counter and we were greeted by a waitress standing there.
"Hello, welcome to Good Coffee. What can I get you?" The girl said like a robot with a smile on her face, it looked so fake.
"Uh, I heard you are hiring. Is the owner around?"
"Yes. I'll take you there" She walked ahead and I walked behind her telling Vera not to follow me.

"How did it go?" Vera asked me as I entered back into the shop.
"I didn't get the job, because of the baby" I scowled.
"Sorry about that but at this time you should be resting. Technically in your condition you can't stay on your feet for long."
I sighed at that, disappointed I didn't get the job.
"Come on babe, cheer up. You and the baby will be okay" Vera patted my back.
"I just feel useless, everyone is doing everything for me and I'm doing nothing. It's so annoying." I said in an irritated voice, my voice loud a bit.
"Oh no, the pregnancy hormones are kicking in. Let's get out of here before you decide to murder everyone. Don't get worked up it can affect the baby, you always be relaxed"
I rolled my eyes getting annoyed at her mentioning "the baby" in almost every sentence but I still followed her out, still annoyed.
When we got home, I went straight to the kitchen to make myself a sandwich, sandwiches tho. After I was done I took a yogurt from the fridge went to the sitting room and turned the TV.
"Hey, did you make a sandwich for me?"
Vera said as she came back downstairs from changing her clothes.
"Nope. The baby didn't allow me to" I said not bothering to look back at her.
"Fe, there are about a dozen in front of you" Vera
said giving me a look
"That's an exaggeration. The baby was really hungry you know"
"So you can't spare me one?" I shrugged my shoulders before she walked to the kitchen and came out few minutes later with two sandwiches.
"It's really weird seeing you watch TV" Vera said still chewing her food.
"Since I can't get a job because of "The Baby". I have to busy myself with something"
"You are such a drama queen" Vera said shaking her head. I just stuck my tongue out at her.
"If you really want to work, you can be a private tutor or something"
I looked up instantly at that.
"Really?"
"Yeah. It will not be so stressful and the pay is a bit okay depending on who you work for anyway"
"Oh my God Vera you are a genius." I stood up and hugged her.
"Don't choke me." She pulled me off off her.
"Now that there is a prospective job, can you stop whining about the baby now?" Vera said giving me a knowing look and I laughed.
"What's left now is how to get someone to tutor." I said going back to my original seat.
"It's easy. The Greggorys are looking for someone to tutor their daughter, the one in Junior High"
My heart sank at that, they were my church members and that's what I've been trying to avoid.
"I don't think I want to work with a church member."
"Fe, sooner or later everyone is going to find out, if some haven't already. The Greggorys are nice, they always ask of you. It's high time you go back to church Fe, starting from this coming Sunday."
Silence filled the air after that, how will I face these people?
Penshalom
Morning sweets, wishing you a fulfilling day..#peace

Ma'am.. Please update o

bummybummy:
it has been a while I comment on stories but u really got me good with this dat makes me cry when reading it. like seriously, am highly motivated, u raise my hope high again. tnk u, luv u

Aww, thanks dear, I'm happy you got motivated, God bless you dear

Episode 18
CHANCES
Song: Cece Winans - Mercy Said No

A MONTH LATER
Well my life has taken some kind of routine, sleep, eat, go to the hospital for check up, sleep again, I've been living my life just like that.
Vera and Dave have been, well, those that I've been keeping me strong. My Mom comes around once in a while to check up on me when she has the chance too because of Dad. I haven't been to church since then, the shame wouldn't let me, I don't know what my parents have been telling them tho. I try my best to avoid people seeing me but I know one day the truth will come out.
I sat down on my bed and placed my hands on my stomach which has formed a bump, I rubbed my stomach gently wondering if there is really a baby inside this small bump. I heard people talk to their babies during their pregnancy, sounds ridiculous but I just feel like doing it.
"Hey baby" I whispered.
"You are in there right? I know you can't hear me and this looks absolutely ridiculous but just know I love you. I love you baby." I said choking back the tears that threatened to fall.
"Fe" I heard Vera calling for me.
"I'm in here" I called back out to her.
"We got accepted Fe. We got accepted to college"
Vera said squealing with joy practically jumping up.
"Oh" I said with a sigh.
"Uh. You are supposed to be happy"
"Congratulations V" I tried to put a smile on my face but failed miserably.
"What's wrong? You are supposed to be happy about this. Your Mom told me to give you the letter" Vera said as she took a seat beside me.
"Well, it's not like I can go or anything" I mumbled out.
"Why can't you go?" Vera asked.
I looked at her like she suddenly grew horns.
"Obviously because I'm pregnant"
"Is that why?"
"Isn't that enough reason?" I said annoyed throwing my hands up in the air.
"No it's not. You are pregnant, so big deal?"
"Easy for you to say, you are not pregnant" I said getting really irritated with her.
"No I'm not but that does not mean I see you differently. You are pregnant not handicapped, you are not the first teenager to get pregnant nor will you be the last Fe."
"You don't know what it feels like to be like this Vera"
"No I don't but I'm not gonna watch you waste your life away wallowing in self pity"
"Shut it Vera"
"No you listen to me Felicia. You made mistake. So? No one is perfect, every one has a past. Stop being bound by your past, rise on your feet and start living your life again. Being pregnant is not a disease, people are going to talk, mock you, yes but you should never let them bring you down. Show them you are better than this, show them you are stronger than this. Show them that you can rise again. Show them Fe. This is a chance for you, don't throw it away so get up and get your life back."
She stood up angrily and went out slamming the door and opened it again just about the same time.
"And for the love of God get out of this damn room" She slammed the door back again.
I looked around the room I've been cooped in for a month now.
She's right, I've been a shadow of myself.
I stood up and knelt down by my bed sobbing.
I closed my eyes and opened my mouth to sing for the first time in two months.

"I was just a child, when I felt the Savior leading
I was drawn to what I could not understand
And for the cause of Christ, I have spent my days believing
That what He'd have me be, is who I am
As I've come to see the weaker side of me
I realize His grace is what I'll need
When sin demanded justice for my soul
Mercy said no
I'm not gonna let you go
I'm not gonna let you slip away
You don't have to be afraid
Mercy said no
Sin will never take control
Life and death stood face to face
Darkness tried to steal my heart away
Thank You Jesus, Mercy said no"

I sang crying so much, worshipping God has been a part of me and right now, doing it again makes me feel like the old me.
As I continued with the song I felt free, joyful, peaceful for the first time in two months.

AFTER ABOUT A hour, I got up feeling refreshed and ready to start afresh. I opened the door of my room and walked out, moving slowly before I reached the last step and made my way to the sitting room where Vera's Mom and Dad were laughing at what they were watching on TV while Vera just sat there staring blankly at the screen, Vera's Mom noticed me first.
"Felicia" She said in surprise, her calling my name brought the attention of the others to me.
"Hello Mrs. Dean"
She grinned at me and stood up hugged me and then pulled me to sit with her.
Mr. Dean nodded his head and smiled at me.
I looked at Vera and our eyes met.
"Thank you V" I mouthed to her.
"You are welcome Fe" She mouthed back to me.
We both smiled at each other widely before turning back our attention to the TV.
Penshalom

"Don't let your past mistakes stop your future.
Get up and get your life back"
Penshalom

Episode 17
SIBLING LOVE
Song: Jaymikee - No More

After that dramatic episode in my house, Vera took me to hers, her parents welcomed me that day asking no questions, they didn't ask what happened but Vera told them later. They asked me no questions fortunately, I was tired of repeating myself, it brings back the memory.
It's been a week now, been a week since I left home, my Mom calls everyday asking about my health, tells me to take care of myself at the end of every call we cry. I have heard nothing from my Dad since then. I winced as I remembered the memory of that day.
"Someone's here to see you Fe"
Vera brought me out of my thoughts, I sat up on my bed wondering who is here to see me.
I looked up and saw Dave enter smiling at me.
I was so surprised to see him but I was half naked, I tried to look for a shirt to put on.
"It's nothing I haven't seen before you know." Dave said with a wink handling me a camisole he probably picked from the floor.
I quickly put it on as Dave sat down beside me on the bed.
"You look horrible" Dave said still smiling.
I smiled back and hugged him.
I've missed him so much.
I inhaled his scent trying to engrave it in my memory.
"I'm sorry Fe. I'm sorry it took so long to come see you. I'm sorry I left you alone. I'm so sorry Fe"
Dave said looking at me few tears dropping from his eyes, I wiped them off.
"It's okay Dave. You were right to be mad. I should have told you but I was afraid you will be disappointed in me. I'm sorry Dave"
He also wiped a few tears that dropped from my eyes too and we both laughed at each other.
"Okay enough with the sappy moment, you both look like you are shooting a movie. Dave, I saw you bring a basket inside and I bet it's something yummy so run downstairs and bring it up"
"Food does not get past you"
Dave rolled his eyes and ran downstairs while Vera failed miserably to throw a pillow at him.
"That was such a bad throw" I said laughing.
"Well a girl can try" Vera said falling into the bed.
Dave came back few seconds later.
"Did you fly downstairs or something?"
Dave rolled his eyes again.
"Yes. Can you see the wings?" He said pointing to his back.
"You are so rude" Vera said successfully hitting him with a pillow this time.
Dave opened the basket.
"Well Mom packed soup, eggs, milk, fruits and she made you pasta. She also gave me this sweater, said it's very thick, in case of cold."
"She really packed a lot but can we eat the pasta first?" Vera said batting her eyes at me.
"Of course V." I laughed at her child-like attitude.
"Yummy. I'll go get plates"
She practically hopped downstairs.
"How are you?"
"I've been fine Dave. I feel weird some times tho, I still vomit. Well Vera's parents have been good to me. How is everyone?"
"Honestly, the house is quieter, scarily quiet, Dad is like a time bomb about to explode so we always tiptoe around him. Mom misses you and well I do too. Don't worry Dad will come around"
I just played with my fingers without saying a word.
"Okay let's eat"
Vera said immediately dishing the food.
As we ate, Vera and Dave bickering as usual, I felt like vomiting so I quickly ran to the toilet and vomited it all out.
"You still vomit?"
Dave said crinkling his nose in disgust.
"Obviously Einstein" Vera said.
"I don't feel like eating anymore" I said as I returned from the toilet.
"At least eat some fruits. An apple maybe?"
"No I'm good" I said with a yawn suddenly feeling sleepy.
I laid on my bed and slept off with a smile on my face.
Penshalom

Happy first Sunday

AryEmber:
And I was hoping the pregnacy test they did was wrong oh but it's not always like that in reality truly. You paint it so real Penshalom, I love it.

Thank you

Episode 16
MORE REVELATIONS
Song: Noni- Blackbird (Beyond The Lights Soundtrack)

My heart stopped at my Mom's answer.
Of course he knows, he probably brought me to the hospital.
"Is--is he really mad at me?" I asked as I played with my fingers.
"Uhm, relax yourself baby so I'll go and arrange for you to be discharged"
My Mom rushed out obviously avoiding my question.
Knowing my Dad he is probably raging like a wounded lion.
I'm so dead.
I stood up and took off the hospital gown to put on my clothes.
I touched my stomach, it's still unnoticeable but soon it will start forming a bump.
My Mom came back few minutes later, she gently moved me out of the room.
"Mom I can walk by myself"
I removed her hands off my shoulder gently, she gave me a weak smile and we both walked out of the hospital room.
I saw Dave by the car but I soon as he spotted me he entered and sat at the back seat, I sighed at that.
"Give your brother some time"
"He's probably disappointed in me" I said sadly.
"Why are you not saying anything Mom?"
"I'm mad at you Fe but I'm more sad at the fact that you could not confide in me. I'm sad that if I had been a better mother to you maybe, maybe this wouldn't have happened. The thought of how much you must have been scared when you found out, how you would have felt keeping this within you for so long brings tears to my eyes"
She sobbed quietly, my eyes too were filled with tears.
"Let's just get out of here first, we'll figure this out"
I texted Vera and told her everything when I entered the car and she texted me back that she will be on her way, Dave on the other hand kept quiet throughout the journey home looking out the window the whole time.

I HESITATED TO come out of the car when we got home, I even heard my Mom taking in unevened breaths.
She placed her hands on my nervous ones and I gripped it tightly in mine.
Dave interrupted our moment.
"Stay back in the car Felicia. Mom let's head in first."
Dave said not looking in my eyes as he talked, he walked away as he finished talking and Mom trailed after him later.
Vera came minutes after they've entered, sweating, she must have ran here.
"Felicia, Dad wants you"
I looked at Vera, she nodded at me and helped me out of the car, I hesitated many times before I turned the door knob, opened the door and entered the house with Vera behind me.

THE ATMOSPHERE WAS so tense you could touch it.
I stood there in the middle of the sitting room, my Mom, Dave, Vera and my Dad surrounding me, I was shaking like a cow about to be slaughtered.
"Dad I'm sorry" I said in a whisper and looked at him, he was standing directly before me breathing heavily .
He raised his hand and slapped me.
It was a resounding slap echoing in the house.
I heard everyone gasp.
"Dad" Dave shouted in a hard voice.
I held my cheek gingerly, crying.
"You are a disgrace"
He pointed at me disappointment in his eyes.
"You are an embarrassment, a shame to this family. Despite all the things I did not to make you wayward you still ended up in hands of a man.
"Who is he?" He asked quietly.
"Who is he?" He screamed in my face when I didn't reply on time.
"He--he was my substitute music teacher"
His face dropped at that.
"So my own daughter has been frolicking around with her teacher. Where is he now?"
That was the hardest question I heard all day.
"I --don't know" I replied, my voice breaking at the end.
"Despite all the things I did you ended up embarrassing me. A well-known pastor in this town. Felicia, how could you this? Why will you do this? Where did I go wrong by you? I gave you everything you wanted"
"No you didn't" I said quietly.
"What did I hear you say?"
"No you didn't" I said again, this time my voice loud.
"You never showed me love. All you ever did was criticize me, you called me names, names a father should not call a daughter. Prostitute. Delilah. LovePeddler. Daughter of Belial. A disgrace. An embarrassment. Everything I did never satisfied you. I tried so hard to be the daughter you wanted but I always ended up failing you, you never acknowledged me as your own but you are so nice to members of the church. I never wanted this but for once in my life I wanted to rebel against you and he was right there, he showed me love and I accepted it. I know I made a mistake but you caused it. You caused it father"
I shouted out the last words trembling on my feet.
"I don't want to see your face. Get out"
Dave ran quickly towards him.
"Dad don't do this. Where do you want her to go? She's your daughter"
"I want her out of this house, now"
He turned his back away from me.
I wiped my tears and turned towards the door to, my Mom stopped me, holding my arm.
I gently pried it off and smiled at her.
"I'm sorry Mom" I whispered and walked towards the door.
"She made a mistake, she should not be sentenced for it. Imagine how she would have felt when she found out." Vera spoke for the first time.
"Let's go V"
She wiped her eyes and walked towards me stopping for a bit as she got to the door.
"By the way, she tried to kill herself when she first found out that she is pregnant. Just thought you should know"
Vera walked out holding my hand, at least V is here for me right now.
We walked out of the house without glancing back oblivious to the fact that my Dad was watching us as we left tears falling from his own eyes.
Penshalom

Pearl05:
Why did you tell dad about it penshalom?




You should have allowed mum to handle it nau.

Dad will find out eventually

Episode 15
REVELATIONS
Song: Hillsong United- All I need is you

I've been keeping my present state a secret but I know it won't be long before it's found out. Vera told me to tell them, my Mom at least, that it was better for me to tell than for them finding out by themselves but I've not had the courage to do so.
There were times I wanted to tell Dave but I hesitated, every time I wanted to, the thought of my father finding out scares me more.
I lost concentration, my mind always thought of what to do with this whole issue. I will be lying if the thought of aborting it has not crossed my mind too many times but the thought of murdering someone never sits well with me.
Vera has been of help to me always encouraging me, she comes by my house more often now, I know it aroused a bit of suspicion but I guess they let it off.
Today is our graduation, I dressed up and walked out gently, my Mom calling me stopped me.
"Yes Mom?"
I turned to her and saw she was not looking at my face but my chest. My heart started hammering and I placed the bag in my hand on my chest.
"Sorry it's just, they look bigger" My Mom said pointing at it.
My Dad who just got out of his room stopped by the door to listen to our conversation.
"I-- I'm wearing a padded bra"
I said quickly.
"Why will you buy a bra bigger than your.."
My Dad stopped talking when he looked at my Mom's face, he cleared his throat and spoke up again.
"Let's go so we won't be late"
I quickly rushed out after him to avoid my Mom's assessing eyes.


EVERYONE IS GENUINELY happy except for me, I have to force a smile on my face to take pictures.
"You are now a graduate sis. Very soon you will be off to college, my baby is growing up"
Dave said fake wiping invisible tears in his eyes.
"Who are you calling baby, baby?"
I smiled at him smacking his head and he grinned at me.
"It's nice to see you smile. It's been a while now"
"Dave I--"
"By the way, I've you gotten a reply from the college you applied to?"
Dave said interrupting me.
"Uh, no"
"Ah. You'll probably get it soon, you are a genius"
He winked at me.
I haven't gotten a reply yet but college is the least of my problems right now.
I suddenly felt weak and exhausted, I looked around but I did not see Vera, she has probably gone back to her parents after us taking pictures.
I walked weakly to my car suddenly feeling dizzy on my way, I looked up, everything started moving in circles, I staggered a bit and almost fell down but someone's hands picked me up.
I tried to see the face properly but everything was blurry. I stopped fighting to try to keep myself awake and finally succumbed to darkness.

I OPENED MY eyes to an unfamiliar room, I sat up abruptly which made me have some dizzy spells, I felt something on my hand, I looked down to see I'm connected to a IV.
I remembered fainting, I must have been rushed to the hospital but no one was in my room right now. As I was about to call out the door to my room opened, my Mom entered, I was about to call out to her but I heard sniffles.
"Mom what's wrong? Is everything okay?"
She turned around sharply noticing I'm awake since she entered the room.
"Felicia you are awake"
She walked up to me failing seriously to hide her tears.
"Mom what's wrong?" I asked worriedly.
The door opened again and I saw Dave entering his eyes red.
Has he been crying too?
"Dave is everything okay?"
I asked again, scared this time, Dave hardly cries. Dave avoided my eyes looking anywhere but me.
"Seriously what's--"
I cut myself short as I put two and two together.
I fainted.
We are in a hospital.
The doctor or whoever attended to me must have discovered it.
They already know.
I looked down shamefully playing with my fingers tears falling from my eyes.
The door opened again and a doctor walked in.
"She can leave now but she has to take good care of herself, any form of stress now can make her lose the…"
"It's okay doctor."
My Mom interrupted him, she probably didn't want me to hear.
"Don't worry Mom I already know"
I said quietly but loud enough for everyone in the room to hear.
Both my Mom and Dave turned to look at me, I can see the shock in their eyes.
"Well, I will advise you come in regularly for checkups"
The doctor rushed out to escape the tense atmosphere.
"You knew?"
Dave spoke up first and I nodded my in reply.
"Since when?" He asked, his voice husky now.
"A month ago"
I dared to look up and I saw Dave avert his eyes but not before I saw the tears in them, my Mom on the other hand just stood there silent.
"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry"
Dave walked out leaving me with Mom.
"I'm sorry Mom, I'm so sorry."
I continued to whisper still crying, my Mom moved close to me and hugged me.
"It's okay, it's okay baby, we'll figure it out"
I pulled from her arms to ask the dreaded question.
"Does Dad know?"
My Mom stayed quiet for a while before replying.
"Yes. Yes he does Felicia"
Penshalom

Hello, thanks for reading up to this point.
Like, comment and share, I'd really appreciate it

oly0511:
pearl05 thanks for the mentioning, penshalom nice story but sad at the same time

Thank you

Gloryejims:
This really brought tears to my eyes.... She was really wounded..
Kudos to the writer... Many lessons indeed
Pearl05 thanks for the invite, it was worth the read.

Thanks dear, Happy you learned something from it

Episode 14
THE AFTERMATH
Song: Jaymikee- I wish

Heart pounding.
Sweat trickling down my skin.
Shaky hands gripping that of Vera tightly, I'm holding her hand so tight but she did not seem to mind.
Eyes focused.
My heart desperately grabbing on the thin hope that maybe a miracle will happen.
This is one of the few times in life that you wish for a negative thing to happen to you, more like a negative result for me.
I felt my friend's hand on mine, she held me tightly as she's also staring intently at it.
We both held our breaths as the line moved to the control.
I prayed desperately for it to just be just one colored line.
"Just this once God. I promise I won't do it again, just give me this chance" I prayed silently in my heart.
But then we don't always get what we want, we got the result.
They are two, two vivid colored lines.
I let out a gasp breaking the silence, the tears I've been holding in falls non stop.
"Your Dad's gonna kill you Fe" She whispered.
I nod my head crying silently.
"I know" I whispered back.
"Let's use the second one, you know these things are wrong sometimes, besides we did it clumsily, let's just.. "
"It's no use V, we already got our answer, somehow I already knew the answer I was just hoping for a miracle. Let's leave"
I stood up, wiped my tears and walked out like a zombie not looking to my left or right, I just walked straight ahead.
I remembered my Father's words.
LovePeddler.
Delilah.
Prostitute.
Daughter of Belial.
An embarrassment.
I remembered Jordan.
I remember my anger.
I remembered my moment of rebellion.
I remembered my mistake.
I didn't know I had moved into the road until I heard the continuous sound of a car horn.
I turned towards the car, maybe, maybe I should just die right now, it will save me from the embarrassment, the shame.
I waited and waited for the hit of the car but nothing happened.
"Are you crazy lady? If you want to die, do it in your father's house"
The driver yelled at me his face red.
Vera ran to me and apologized to the man, she carried me up and moved me from the road.
"Are you crazy Felicia? You wanted to kill yourself? You scared me so much back there. What were you thinking? You think doing this will solve your problems?"
Vera screamed at me, tears running down her face.
"Yes, I think killing myself will solve the problem."
I replied quietly but loud enough for her to hear.
"What? How could you say that?"
Vera screamed at me astounded by my words.
"How could I not? How could I not? Do you know the shame that will come after this? A pregnant teenager. A pastor's daughter that got herself pregnant. A girl who got pregnant by someone who suddenly disappeared. A student that shagged her temporary music teacher. I don't even know where Jordan is. I don't know how I will tell my parents, my Dad, my Dad, he'll probably say "I told you so, she's a LovePeddler". Dave will be so disappointed in me, my Mom will cry so much. People will point fingers at you too Vera, so what other way to prevent this than to just die?
You know the funniest thing, I did this to myself, I wanted to defy him, I wanted to rebel, I wanted to be loved and there was Jordan, it felt like I had one my person to that is supporting me. I.. I... don't even feel God anymore. I can't worship God with my songs anymore, I lost that part of me. I.. I.. "
I choked back on my words as I started sobbing again.
"Why didn't you tell me you were going through this much at home? I'm supposed to be your best friend"
"Because. Because he is still your pastor and you are his church member"
"You idiot. If you had killed yourself, how do you think Dave would have felt? Your Mom? Your Dad? Me? I've you forgotten that there is another life in you now Fe, you want to kill it too?" She stopped for a bit before she continued again.
"We'll get through this together Fe, I promise"
Vera hugged me tightly as we both cried into each other's shoulders.
"Let's get out of here"
She stopped a cab and we both entered as I thought of what I will do next.
Penshalom

Pearl05:
This is beautiful. Felicia didn't get love from her dad which she sought for from a stranger who took advantage of her. She is pregg now and the stranger is gone.

You always try to talk about societal issues with your story. Keep it up.

Cbella
Gloryejims
Oly0511
She writes
Pinkfeet
Purples25
Evajael

Come over here you should read wounded too

Thanks hon

AryEmber:
Same to you Penshalom! I always love the lessons you teach in your stories though it's a shame many will still continue to fornicate and you with the different belief is the odd one out, keep up the good work!

Thanks dear

Episode 13
MAKE OR MAR
Song: Tye Tribett - Better

I went back home the following day in the evening to the waiting arms of my Mom as she shed a few tears and a little scolding from Dave, he could be a mother hen some times. My Dad said nothing, ever since that day it has been scarily silent. I saw him briefly standing at porch, when I got down from Vera's car he disappeared inside. Vera told me to tell my Mom what happened but I haven't gotten the courage to do so besides it's just one night, it's not like I will let such repeat itself again.
My spiritual life has gone down drastically ever since then, it had been off and on before the incident but now it's gone, totally. The feelings I have during worship are no longer there, I don't feel my spirit man again, I feel so different and this has affected my attitude at home. I've been so withdrawn and Dave seemed to notice this.
"Felicia what's been up with you?"
Dave asked me worried lines etched on his forehead.
"Nothing"
"Something's off. And you been like this is ever since that day you came back. You've been so quiet and withdrawn."
I kept quiet not knowing what to say.
"Talk to me Fe, I'm your brother. Did something happen to you that night three weeks ago? Where did you sleep that night?"
"I slept with one of my music class mates. Don't worry Dave, I'm fine. At least I'm trying to be"
I muttered the last part to myself and smiled at Dave.
It looked like he still had something to say but he didn't.
"I-- "
I could not finish my words as I felt a bile rise up to my throat, I quickly rushed to the toilet and vomited it out with Dave behind me rubbing my back.
I washed my mouth and moved slowly back to my room suddenly feeling so weak.
"Are you running a fever?"
"I think so. I've been vomiting too often these days. And urinating too often"
"Let me get some drugs downstairs. Rest a bit"
He covered me with a blanket and rushed downstairs.
I touched my forehead and it felt hot.
I've been like this for a while now, suddenly feeling sick and nauseous.
I closed my eyes and slept off because I was so tired.

THE FOLLOWING WEEK, it's a Sunday afternoon I didn't join the choir to sing because I wasn't around for rehearsals, I especially loved the song they sang today "Better" by Tye Tribett. All throughout the service I kept dozing off and on, I still felt so weak and now I feel slightly hot, it's been off and on and I still vomit too frequently.
"Are you okay?"
Vera asked me quietly and I nodded my head yes to her but I was far from okay, I just wish we finish from church early so I will go home and sleep.
The service finished around 12pm and I was excited for it, my choir leader asked about me and I told her I just caught the flu.
I walked over to say goodbye to Vera but I noticed she was holding her stomach.
"V, are you okay?" I held her arm and gently moved her along with me.
"I'm fine, it's just my period"
"Oh, you..."
I dropped Vera's arm as I realized something, I stood there shocked my mind unable to comprehend the truth.
"Hey what's wrong?"
Vera asked me shaking me a bit.
"Vera.. I.. I.. I haven't seen my period"
Vera too looked shocked as she heard.
"Maybe it's just a late thing. Maybe you just have an infection, you can't be.."
"No Vera.. I've been feeling so sick the past three weeks, it's those symptoms we see and hear about."
I interrupted her as I looked up at her my eyes filled with tears.
"You can't be sure Fe"
"Let's go home Felicia"
I heard my Mom shout from a distance, I quickly turned my head so she will not see the tears on my face.
"Sorry ma'am. Fe and I have plans. Can she leave with me?"
"Oh sure. Take care of yourselves girls"
I heard my Mom say cheerfully. I just stood there trembling my heart racing so bad.
"Calm down Fe. Let's confirm this ourselves before we jump to conclusions"
Vera said goodbye to her parents, she encouraged me a bit and we went to a pharmacy that is far from town.

"CAN WE GET a HPT? No, can we get two HPTS?"
Vera asked the lady behind the counter who looked at us in turn with disdain.
"Aren't you both too young to buy this?" She asked with an irritated voice.
"I don't think that's any of your business after all we are paying our money. Just sell it to us and collect your money" Vera said in a hard voice.
She huffed at us before she got the HPTs for us.
"Where is your restroom?"
She pointed to her left reluctantly giving Vera an evil look. Vera dragged me to the restroom without sparing her another glance.
We searched on how the thing is done on the internet. I urinated before Vera came back inside as we both followed the instructions and then waited for the answer that will either make or mar my life.
Penshalom

Episode 12
MISTAKES, REGRETS
Song: Todd Dulaney- Pulling me through

I woke up to the sun shining from the opened part of the curtain.
I tried to block it with my hands so as to go back to sleep as I felt really tired but it was no use, nature always wins.
I stood up, half awake half asleep as I made a move to my bathroom I gasped at the pain I felt in my lower region as I tried to move my legs it felt like a sore but I still moved my legs nonetheless only to discover that I entered an empty closet.
"When did I start having a closet?" I wondered to myself.
I found my way back to where I was coming from and looked around.
I woke up from my slumber instantly as I took note of my environment, the place looked strange.
I saw a note on the dresser, I picked it up and read it my hands trembling as I saw the content of the message.
"Sorry.
I have to go back to where I came from. I just had to stay here for a month and now I'm done with what I came for.
Sorry I had to leave like this.
Stay cool.
Love, J"
The note fell from my hand as I finished reading, memories from last night rushing back.
I covered my hand with my hands as I realized what I did. The guilt spreading in my chest, my heart hammering and I cried bitterly.
I failed God.
Jesus.
Jesus.
Jesus.
I kept screaming in my mind, tears falling.
I looked down at myself and realized I'm naked.
I saw my clothes neatly placed on the bed. I wore them quickly with my trembling hands and ran out only to meet three strange people staring at me.
"Who are you?"
A middle-aged man directed the question at me.
"So you are the girl from last night, you woke me up with your noise. Thank God you left on time, I'm about to lease the house." The old man with them said.
"You look too young to be into this"
The woman with them looked at me with a disapproving stare.
I bit my lips to prevent a sob that threatened to come out the embarrassment killing me. I didn't bother to reply and ran as fast as my leg could carry me.

THE CONSTANT RINGING of my phone made me look up from I was perched under a tree.
I looked at it and saw Vera's name, I picked it up as it started ringing again.
"Where are you Felicia?"
Vera screamed in my ears.
I started crying again, I cried out which made Vera more worried.
"Felicia where are you?"
"I'm at George street."
"I'll pick you up now. Stay put."
She dropped the call, I cried silently waiting for Vera.
She called me later and asked where I was, I told her to wait and walked lifelessly to where she was parked. As soon as she saw me she jumped out of her car.
"Oh my God, Fe"
Vera gasped and pulled me to her car without asking me any questions.
She drove straight to her house which I am thankful for.
She helped me into her house, put a jacket on me and practically forced me to drink coffee.
"What happened Fe?"
I kept quiet crying silently.
"You were out there in the cold weather wearing this thin gown with no shoes on. What happened to you Fe?"
I didn't talk again still crying.
"Were..were you raped?"
Vera asked me, her voice breaking.
I shook my head no and she released a relieved sigh.
"Then what happened?"
I cried a bit more before I opened my mouth.
"I slept with him"
"Him, who?"
"Jordan"
Vera looked shocked for a moment.
"How? Why?"
"Because.. I was angry? Because I wanted to feel loved? Jordan has been so gentle with me, I felt really special. I don't know what came over me. I just did it."
Vera cried with me when I told her all that happened this morning before she found me. The ringing of her phone breaking off our conversation.
"It's your Mom"
"I don't want to talk her right now"
I sank back into my seat my head on my knees.
"She just needs to know you are okay. Just tell her something"
I collected the phone and picked it.
"Hi Mom"
"Oh Felicia."
My Mom said in relief.
"Yes Mom?"
"You got us worried. Are you okay baby?"
"Yes I'm fine Mom" I said holding back my sob.
"Do you want me to come pick you up?"
"No" I said quickly.
"No. I will be home tomorrow. Tell Dave I'm okay"
"Alright dear. I love you Felicia"
"Bye Mom"
Vera put her arms around me.
"You'll be fine Fe"
Little did I know that there is more to come.
Penshalom

1st Corinthians 6:18
"Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body"