Chapter 35: Chapter Thirty-Five

The group's excitement was tempered by Emma's worsening condition. Her fever seemed to be spiking, and she looked pale and weak.

Mike, trying to find a solution, spoke up. "Guys, I think Emma and I should just head to the hospital instead. You two can still catch the flight, wouldn’t want you to miss it."

Jaime looked uncertain, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don't know, man. I don't feel right leaving Emma behind."

Lisa shook her head firmly. "No, we can't do that. Emma's well-being is paramount. We can't just leave her behind when she's not feeling well."

Mike frowned, clearly not wanting to give up on their plans. "But we can't all miss the flight. It's not fair to you and Jaime."

Lisa's expression remained resolute. "Fairness doesn't come into it when someone's health is at risk. We need to prioritize Emma’s well-being right now."

Jaime nodded in agreement. "Lisa's right, Mike. We can't just abandon Emma when she's feeling this bad."

Mike sighed, realizing he was outnumbered. "Okay, fine. We'll all go to the hospital together."

Emma, who had been quietly observing the conversation, spoke up weakly. "I'm sorry, guys. I feel so bad for ruining our plans."

Lisa smiled warmly and put a reassuring hand on Emma's shoulder. "Don't apologize, Emma. Your health is what matters most right now. We'll take care of you and figure out the rest later."

Without hesitation, the group quickly gathered their belongings and followed Jaime's lead. They missed their flight, but Emma's health was the top priority.

As they arrived at the hospital, Emma was quickly whisked away for examination. Mike, Jaime, and Lisa waited anxiously in the waiting room, their minds racing with worst-case scenarios.

Finally, the doctor emerged, a kind smile on his face. "Good news, everyone. Emma's going to be just fine."

Mike's face lit up with relief. "What was wrong with her?"

The doctor's smile grew wider. "Well, it turns out Emma's pregnant."

The room fell silent, with Jaime and Lisa exchanging stunned glances. Mike's jaw dropped, and he looked like he'd been punched in the gut.

"Pregnant?" Mike repeated, his voice barely above a whisper.

The doctor nodded. "Yes, congratulations are in order. However, Emma's body is telling her she needs to slow down and rest. We'll need to monitor her closely to ensure the pregnancy progresses smoothly."

Jaime and Lisa looked at each other, both thinking the same thing. This changed everything.

The doctor continued, "And for the time being, Emma should avoid flying. We don't want to take any unnecessary risks."

Mike's face fell, and he looked crestfallen. Their Bahamas trip was officially off the table.

Lisa spoke up, her voice filled with concern. "What can we do to help Emma? What does she need?"

The doctor smiled. "Just rest, plenty of fluids, and regular check-ups. We'll take good care of her."

As they left the hospital, Mike's arm wrapped protectively around Emma's shoulders, the group's dynamics had shifted. Emma's pregnancy had brought a new level of responsibility and care into their relationship.

With Emma safely back at Jaime’s, resting and gaining back her strength, the others were left to ponder the fate of their Bahamas trip. It was clear to everyone that the trip was no longer feasible, but no one had officially called it off yet.

Lisa, however, had already made up her mind. She had only come to Jaime’s place for the trip, and now that it was cancelled, she saw no reason to stay. She had only just met Emma, and while she was concerned about her new friend's health, she didn't feel obligated to stay and take care of her.

Besides, Lisa had another commitment waiting for her back home - Archie's party. She didn't want to miss the rest of the celebration, and she was eager to get back to her normal routine. The sudden change in plans had thrown her off, and she was ready to regain control of her schedule.

As she began to gather her belongings, Lisa finally pulled out her phone from her bag. She had been avoiding it all morning, not wanting to deal with any drama or stress. But now, she needed to inform Rachel that the trip was cancelled and she was coming back home.

As she scrolled through her phone, Lisa's eyes widened in confusion. She had missed multiple calls from both Marcus and Rachel. She wondered- What was going on? Why were they calling her so frantically?

Lisa's mind started racing with worst-case scenarios. Had something happened? Was Rachel okay? And what did Marcus want? She hadn't spoken to him since their argument and hadn’t called him back since he sent her the money, which she hadn't even touched. She wasn't sure if she was ready to talk to him again.

She thought back to their conversation, trying to recall if she had said anything that might have prompted him to call her. But she couldn't think of anything specific.

Lisa's curiosity got the better of her, and she decided to call Rachel back first, hoping to get some answers and clarity on the situation. She took a deep breath, bracing herself for whatever news Rachel might have.