Chapter 18

"I'm pregnant."

The line went quiet, the weight of those words hanging heavily in the air. Maiari felt her heart pounding, waiting for her uncle and aunt's reaction.

"What did you just say?" her uncle's voice rose, his tone a mixture of shock and disbelief.

Her aunt's voice followed, her words dripping with disappointment, "Maiari, you're barely out of high school. How could you let this happen?"

Maiari's throat tightened as she struggled to find the right words. "I know it's not ideal, and I take full responsibility for my actions. I didn't plan for this, but I'm determined to do everything I can for the baby's sake."

Her uncle's voice was stern, "This is a serious situation, Maiari. You've put yourself in a difficult position, and you've let us down."

Tears streamed down Maiari's face as the weight of her uncle and aunt's anger crashed over her. She had hoped for understanding, for support, but instead, she was met with disappointment and reproach.

"I know I've made a mistake," Maia