PART 1

My twin brother, Julian, and his wife, Chloe, had been trying to have a baby for years.

When they finally asked if I’d consider becoming their surrogate, I agreed.

Julian had been the best brother and my best friend my entire life.

He’d always supported me and always been there for me.

I already had a son of my own, and I understood the kind of love they were longing for.

I wanted to help them.

Especially because whenever I saw Julian spending time with my son, he seemed happiest in those moments.

When they found out it was a girl, they started buying tiny dresses and toys.

They even painted the nursery pink.

When I finally gave birth, Chloe and Julian came to my hospital room right away.

Chloe cried with joy when she saw her daughter.

Then Julian picked up the baby.

He stared at her for a few seconds.

Then his face went pale.

When I asked if he was okay, he said in a trembling voice:

“I’m sorry, but… I can’t take her.”

I thought I’d misheard him.