30th June. Precious Diary,

I have never been this sad. I found out to my utter horror today that I am pregnant. I thought I will go crazy but Linda made sure I didn’t. She hugged me so tightly and made me cry all I wanted on her shoulder.

Precious, I am scared to death.

You know how religious Mum and Dad are. I know they will find out sooner or later and the consequences I don’t think I can bear. Linda decided against an abortion and promised to be by my side when I break the news to them. She never blamed me for messing up but told me not to worry.

I tried reaching Jack but his phone wasn’t going through and I don’t have the courage to check up on him in his house. I just hope he is fine. My heart misses a beat anytime I think of how I’m going to release the bombshell to my parents. Oh GOD help me get out of this mess. I can’t take it.

“Pearl. Mum wants to speak to you.” I heard Keith yell from downstairs. I quickly rushed to where he was.

“Hello Mum.”

“Hello honey. How are you doing?”

“I’m alright Mama.” I lied. I was so unwell.

“OK dear. Please we will be coming back home GOD willing tomorrow. Kindly take good care of Keith till we get back ok? Have to go. Dad says hi.”

“OK mum. Can’t wait till you get back home. Missed you guys so much.” I meant it.

“Miss you too my lovely girl. Take care. Bye.”

Tears flooded my eyes once again. I was perplexed because I was pregnant but even more confused because I had still not heard from Jack. I would pick up my phone and read the messages we sent each other and cry the more.

Linda did her best to spend more time with me. She was scared that I would hurt myself. She lost a sister to suicide and wasn’t ready to lose me to something that nasty. She made me vow that I won’t hurt myself or the baby I was carrying.

***

1st July

Precious Diary

Mum and Dad arrived today. I tried as much as possible to give them the warmest welcome I could feign. Mum stared at me with an “it – seems – you’ve – changed” look. I kept avoiding her eyes so as not to answer any questions. I wasn’t ready to answer anyway.

A comment from Dad made me freeze within.

“It seems you’ve put on some weight. My baby girl has become a woman already.” I tried to smile but it came out crooked. Precious Diary, tomorrow is the day. Will tell you about it when it all comes to an end.”

2nd July

The morning started out normally. I had planned with Linda to meet at her place first so we strategize on how to come and break the news to my loving parents.

“Be calm. I know how to go about it.” Linda said softly into my ears and I felt a soothing flow calming my nerves. We opened the main gate and my heart missed a beat. I was prepared for the worst. I knew I had sinned and had to bear the consequences of my actions.

We entered our hall and my Mum ran and hugged me amidst screams. She was so excited. My Dad and Keith came out of the kitchen smiling at me as well. I was confused not knowing what to do. Linda maintained her calm which demonstrated her maturity.

“What’s going on here?” I managed to spill out.

“Dear, your results are in and you passed excellently.” My dad said.

“My brilliant daughter do come and give me a hug.” Mum added, smiling. I burst out in uncontrollable tears that I was even surprised it happened so fast. Everyone except Linda was wondering why I weeping. Their faces turned to Linda for an explanation.

“Actually Reverend and Mrs Johnson, that’s why we are here.” Linda said.

“Mummy I’m sorry. I’m so sorry Mama. Dad, please find a place in your heart to forgive me. I’m sorry for disappointing you. Oh GOD what have I done to myself? I said amidst tears.

“Can we please sit and talk about this? We are obviously at sea here.” Dad said. I could see a big question mark in the expression on his face.

***

Tell us: How do you think Pearl’s parents will take it?