“You’re young. That’s very much in your favor. In a few years, we could possibly remove some of the pins. However, the screws will stay in place to give your body extra support.” He cleared his throat and glanced at his nurse.

The uncomfortable expression on his face set off warning bells inside Elise. The doctor had bad news. Strike that. He had dreadful news.

“If you are careful during the next few weeks, there is no reason you can’t enjoy a full and active life. After your bones mend, there’s nothing really wrong with you. You will continue to experience numbness and residual pain, which often accompany nerve damage. In time, that should fade.”

The doctor turned from the X-rays and finally met her eyes. There it was—sympathy. Elise braced herself, her nails digging into the palms of her hands.

“I’m afraid I do have some bad news. Should you become pregnant, your body will not support carrying a child to full term. It could also damage the internal repairs. Physically, you cannot handle the additional softening and stress on those pelvic bones.” He paused. “I highly recommend that you consider sterilization.”

What? She couldn’t be hearing him correctly. “I’ve read about a number of women who have given birth after pelvic injuries.”

“True. But those women haven’t had two severe injuries in the same area in as many years. Your body can’t handle it, Ms. Taylor. I’m sorry. If you should like children of your own, you will need to pursue adoption or a surrogate carrier.” The doctor handed her several pamphlets. “I suggest you read these and consider what I’ve told you quite seriously.”

Like an automaton, Elise tucked the pamphlets inside her purse without a glance. The doctor couldn’t be right; she’d get a second opinion. Surely he had jumped to conclusions without considering every option.

With her mind shying from the doctor’s verdict, she left his office. She could not accept this. A second opinion should prove what an unsuitable doctor the agency had hired. Nothing was wrong with her that a wee bit of time wouldn’t heal.

At least, that’s what she told herself on the way outside before true reaction set in. Shaking like a leaf, she reached the curb and flagged down a cab.

In only a few hours, her entire world had shattered every bit as much as her pelvis.

Chapter 4

Harry shifted gears and pressed the accelerator. His 4x4 shot forward and overtook the lorry that had slowed traffic for miles. Maneuvering back into his lane, he cast a glance at Elise.

She had been quiet throughout dinner and looked paler than ever after her doctor’s visit. At a guess, she was either unwell or her appointment had gone badly. Since she hadn’t mentioned the appointment again, he had a good idea it was the latter.