The Life Vista

“Mom… please… I’m about to give birth.”

I clutched the edge of the sofa, sweat soaking through my dress, a sharp pain tearing through my lower back. My contractions were less than five minutes apart. I could barely breathe, barely think.

My mother, Karen, didn’t even stand up. She glanced at her watch with irritation, as if I were making her late for something trivial.

“I already told you,” she said flatly. “It’s your sister’s birthday party today. Call an Uber.” Across the room, my younger sister Madison adjusted her makeup in the mirror and laughed.
“I’ve been planning this party for weeks,” she said. “I’m the star today. Don’t ruin it with your drama.”

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