My 74-year-old father invited me to dinner and offered me a drink. I accepted, but the next morning I woke up feeling terribly ill and went to the hospital. When the doctor saw my blood test results, his expression suddenly changed. He asked, “Have you suspected lately that you might be pregnant?”

But I couldn't forget how strangely he had behaved.

Three days later, Dr. Wilson called me again.

This time his expression was kinder.

—Sarah, we've found the most likely explanation.

I felt my throat close up.

She explained that further tests had identified a benign ovarian cyst, along with hormonal changes that required monitoring. A specialist had also determined that the initial hCG result should be interpreted with caution and monitored, rather than prompting a pregnancy test.

The cyst was not considered dangerous and my symptoms could be controlled with proper care.

I burst into tears.

—So, am I going to be okay?

—The prognosis is reassuring. We will continue to monitor your condition, but we have every reason to be optimistic.

For the first time in several days I could breathe normally.

But one question remained.

Why had my father behaved so strangely?

That night I went to his house.

I opened the door and he immediately hugged me.