“Have you decided?”
“I want to help you. But I’m scared.”
“Of the pregnancy?”
“Of losing my home if something goes wrong.”
You’d be giving us something money can’t buy.
“We’ll take care of the mortgage, Nat.”
“Then I’ll do it.”
***
After the fertility clinic’s procedures, I met with my independent lawyer to sign the agreement.
I’ve been severely nearsighted since childhood. Grief made reading harder.
And I’d forgotten my glasses on the day I signed.
I want to help you.
“Could you walk me through everything?” I asked.
“Of course. The contract covers the surrogacy arrangement and your compensation.”
“And Ethan’s other promises?”
“Those aren’t addressed here. I’d recommend discussing them separately.”
“Is that really necessary? We’re family.”
Grief made reading harder.
“Family arrangements can get complicated, Natalie.”
I hesitated. “Ethan’s practically my brother. We’ve known each other our whole lives.”
“Just make sure you understand what you’re signing.”
