The 100Th Heartbreak

Synopsis

The day I got my pregnancy test results, Edward Lane handed me a surgical consent form. "Claire, sign it." His voice was as calm as if he were discussing the weather. "Vivian's health is fragile. The doctor says seeing this child would affect her recovery." He leaned close, whispering tenderly like the old days when he used to whisper sweet nothings. He said, "You know we'll have more children. Once Vivian gets better, you can have as many as you want. I'll give you anything. "This is the last time, I promise." I clutched that flimsy piece of paper, my fingertips ice-cold. In the past five years, I had aborted three of his children, twice with chemical medication, once surgically. Every time, it was for his first love, Vivian's "emotional stability." Every time, he promised it was the last. Every time, I believed him.