Chapter 17: Chapter 17
Disclaimer: Twilight and the characters belong to Stephenie. Only this little plotline is mine.
Edward and his wife Tanya are having trouble conceiving. Bella is in desperate need for money so she can finish her degree.
The Surrogate
Chapter 17
BPOV
"What's involved in becoming a surrogate?" I was curious to find out more. Could this be the answer for the fall term? Was I crazy to consider it?
"Come sit Miss Swan. I'll have Ms. Stanley get us some coffee while I explain." Mr. Newton poked his head out the door to make his request. I sat back in the chair and contemplated this new option.
Just as Mr. Newton plunked himself back in his chair Ms. Stanley came in carrying a tray and sat it on the desk.
"Thank you, Ms. Stanley.' He winked at her and she retreated blushing wildly.
Mr. Newton fixed himself a cup of coffee and I did the same adding cream and sugar. It tasted fabulous. I began to relax a bit, as it seemed I might have misunderstood his actions. At least I was going to give him the benefit of the doubt.
"Please tell me a bit about what's involved. I know next to nothing about surrogacy but I have read a few wild stories about surrogates refusing to give up babies and I recall cases where couples were defrauded by false pregnancies. I'm a bit leery but I can assure you that if I commit to this I will never ever break trust." There was so much to consider but I knew I would follow through if I went forward.
"Somehow I believe you, Miss Swan." His eyes met mine over his coffee cup. He took a sip and continued.
"Now let me give you a quick overview. I have to caution you that there is no guarantee that you will be accepted as a surrogate. The process is quite rigorous and requires a background check to weed out fraudsters and those with potential mental health issues. Generally they prefer women who have had children but that is not a hard and fast rule since you are 21.
You would need to undergo a medical check up and meet with a social worker to ensure your fitness for the role. The fertility center I would recommend to you is "Little Miracles" run by a woman who is well known to the Masen Scholarship Fund, Dr. Maggie Peters. She is a truly wonderful, caring woman and I'm sure you will feel at ease with her.
If the Center could find a couple within the next few weeks and are able you make the necessary arrangements to impregnate you then the baby would be born late August or early September. Given the timing you would be free to attend fall classes unencumbered." Mr. Newton paused at that point giving me time to think. I had more questions.
"What sort of compensation is involved? I mean if I do become pregnant I'm giving my body over to the intended parents for 9 months." How would I deal with giving up a child even if it wasn't mine? Would I become emotionally attached? My decision whether to proceed would be driven by deep reflection.
"I can't give you an accurate answer. Maggie…Dr. Peters is much better equipped to respond. What I can tell you is that it would cover your living costs and medical for the duration of the pregnancy plus provide more than enough to get you through fall term." I sat quietly for a minute pragmatically assessing my situation. I honestly didn't see any other option that would provide the kind of funds I needed. I should at least consider whether I could do this.
"I'll think about it Mr. Newton. I do appreciate that you took the time to help me evaluate my situation and offer solutions." At that point I sensed our meeting was over. I stood and gathered my belongings before meeting Mr. Newton's eyes. Once again, I couldn't escape the feeling he was struggling to contain his inner perv.
"Here's Maggie's card." He handed me a small cream rectangle he'd retrieved from a drawer. I extended my hand to shake his. He held on a bit longer than comfortable and I pulled my hand back to make it clear that I had no interest in him, at all.
"Goodbye Mr. Newton. Thanks again for your time." I turned towards the door but his voice stopped me in my tracks.
"Miss Swan, please see Ms. Stanley before you leave. She has a packet so that you can complete your scholarship application for winter term. Whether you believe me or not, it pained me to turn down your appeal. Please let's not let that happen again."