I Chose My Daughter Over My Family, and It Uncovered a Dark Truth I Never Expected

Section 3

As the last streamers were hung and the balloons floated lazily in the corners of the living room, Natalie’s phone buzzed angrily against the countertop. The hospital's number flashed on the screen, and her heart raced as she snatched it up.

"Natalie, it’s Dr. Reed,"

the familiar voice echoed in her ears.

"I’m calling to update you on Meline’s condition."

Her stomach twisted. “What’s wrong?”

"There have been some complications. We need to monitor her more closely."

A chill washed over her. “What kind of complications?”

"It’s too early to say. I’ll keep you posted."

As the call ended, Natalie's grip on the phone tightened. She felt sick, torn between this reality and her family's incessant demands. She padded back into the chaos of Celeste's birthday preparations, the laughter of her relatives piercing her like a knife.

"Natalie, we need the cake setup! What’s taking you so long?"

Her mother’s voice rang out, shrill and impatient. Her heart thudded in her chest. “Meline is in trouble, Mom! I just got off the phone with the doctor.”

"Not now, Natalie!"

Celeste waved off her concern, her face smeared with frosting as she snatched a slice of cake. “All of this is for me!”

Frustration bubbled inside Natalie. “Can’t you all see what’s happening? My daughter is fighting for her life!”

"We can’t let one incident ruin our day!"

Her father’s voice boomed. “You're making this about you! Celeste deserves her day.”

The absurdity of it all hit Natalie like a wave. “No, you’re missing the point! Meline deserves her mother—”

But the words fell flat, lost in the noise of laughter and celebration.