Naina could hardly believe the situation she found herself inâpregnant, alone, with just a bag and a few belongings, wandering the streets at 6 a.m. The early morning air felt cold against her skin, and the city, which once seemed full of opportunities, now felt alien and hostile. She didnât know where to go or what to do.
Eventually, she stumbled upon a small shop, her stomach growling with hunger. She walked in, aware of the stares from the other customers. Dressed in her nightsuit with a swollen, red cheek and a visible scratch on her forehead, Naina looked out of place. She ignored the whispers and ordered a juice and a simple veg sandwich. The warmth of the food provided some comfort, but her mind raced as she ate.
Where would she go now? How much money did she have left? She needed an apartment, a jobâanything to keep her going.
Two weeks had passed since that morning, and Naina had finally found a small rental apartment. It wasnât in the best neighborhood, but it was all she could afford. Unfortunately, finding a job was proving to be even harder. No one wanted to hire a visibly pregnant woman, especially one with no recent work experience. Her savings were dwindling fast, and everythingâfrom food to healthcareâwas so expensive in the U.S.
She had once had a promising career and a stable life. The company had provided her with an apartment and a job she loved. But since she became pregnant, Rivaan had insisted she leave work, and her life had changed. Now, with only a small part-time online job to bring in some money, she was barely scraping by.
Despite everything, she found solace in the fact that she wasnât entirely alone. Her babies were with her, and for now, that was enough to keep her going.