Zikora

Zikora is the protagonist and first person narrator of the story. An independent and strong-willed lawyer, Zikora is surprised when she falls for another lawyer, Kwame. Throughout the early days of their relationship, Zikora wonders at how perfect Kwame seems. Though he was raised in America, he is also African, and seems to understand her past. He gets along with her parents, has a sense of humor, and does not change in the way Zikora is convinced he suddenly will.

Then, one night after returning home from an event together, Zikora tells Kwame she is pregnant. Instead of responding excitedly, Kwame insists on paying for an abortion. Zikora does not understand: they are both in their late thirties with stable careers. He shrugs off her upset, and leaves.

In the months following, Zikora tries to endure her loneliness, and follow all of the rules for a healthy pregnancy...