The doctor smiled gently.
“Ella, I’ve reviewed your history, and I think we should discuss the next steps carefully.”
I swallowed.
“Doctor, please tell me the truth. Is there still a chance for me to become a mother?”
She pulled her chair closer.
“Let’s talk about what we know, what we don’t know, and what options are available to you.”
For the first time, I was ready to hear the answer without believing that it would determine my worth.
Whatever happened next, I would face it as a woman who deserved respect.
Not as Kelly’s wife.
Not as Nonye’s rival.
And certainly not as the barren woman they had both called me.
As Ella.
A woman who still had a future.
The doctor explained that my previous test results had not provided a complete answer to every question about my fertility.
Some investigations were reassuring, but that did not guarantee pregnancy. Further assessment could help clarify what options might be appropriate for me.
