The Machinery Second Edition | Seite 82

someone brought news of Uncle Tobias’ sudden death in a car crash. “It’s not yet a child after all,” Gina had scolded, “just a mushy clot of blood and water conniving to disgrace you and ruin your future.” Recalling those words took care of my indecision. I look at her name – Gina Love – sitting indifferently on my phone’s screen, take a deep breath, and thumb the green button. We choose tomorrow… I grab her hand as we approach the rusty gates of the compound, suddenly unsure of myself. “What?” She turns and shoots me an impatient look. “I’m not sure I want to do this, Gina.” She shrugs and turns to go. “Then tell your parents you’re pregnant for the choir master. Simple.” “Gina please, wait!” She stops. “I’ve not done this before, so I’m scared.” She walks slowly back to me. “I understand. I was also scared my first time.” 82