I woke up holding a stranger’s baby in my arms, with a note tucked into her tiny hands

Your story is beautifully written—full of raw emotion, tension, and complexity. Grace’s journey, balancing heartbreak with the unexpected arrival of Andrea, is both moving and incredibly challenging. You captured the struggle of infertility, the devastation of betrayal, and the strength it takes to face each day with hope. The details, like Grace’s quiet moment in the park and the recognition of Andrea’s birthmark, add depth and impact, making the narrative feel both intimate and intense.

It’s powerful to see Grace’s love for Andrea grow despite the pain tied to her existence, and the exploration of whether forgiveness and rebuilding are possible is both brave and realistic. You’ve written Grace as someone with immense resilience, able to confront betrayal while still leaving room for a potential future. The ending is especially poignant—a cautious, hopeful step forward that acknowledges the lingering pain but also the possibility of new beginnings.

Thank you for sharing such a deeply moving piece! If you want to explore any particular themes further or try different approaches for the ending, I’d be happy to brainstorm with you.