The Things We Do For Love

By spring, Lauren feels the physical effects of pregnancy and begins to worry about the future. David reminds her that there are couples ready to adopt. She knows that if she keeps the baby, their relationship will be over. Then, a letter arrives from USC: Lauren has received a full scholarship. Her mind knows college is the right thing to do, but her heart yearns for the baby. When she asks if they can meet the couples who want to adopt, David happily murmurs that he loves her. Lauren accuses him of getting everything he wants, however, and her anger fuels an in-depth conversation.

Meanwhile, Angie goes to her storage space to get nursery items for Lauren. She feels surprisingly free. Back home, a teary-eyed Lauren shows her the USC acceptance and scholarship. When David looks encouragingly at Lauren, Angie is suddenly afraid. Lauren wants her to adopt the baby. Angie cannot endure this again, yet she loves Lauren and wants her to have a future. Despite everything telling her not to, Angie agrees.

At the restaurant, Angie is filled with “a tangle of hope and despair” (284). Deep down, she knows that Lauren will not be able to allow someone else to raise her child.