Amanda, a single woman in her 60s, was known in her neighborhood for hosting a weekly book club and her strict demeanor. Children avoided her due to her frequent scolding. One day, she met Jane, a 50-year-old neighbor, at the grocery store and invited her to the book club. Jane attended for a few weeks but then stopped coming, which puzzled Amanda.

A month later, Amanda saw Jane with a visible baby bump. Shocked, Amanda gossiped about Jane’s pregnancy at the book club. “At her age, she should be babysitting her grandchildren, not giving birth! It’s disgusting!” Amanda said.

Amanda saw Jane at the grocery store and criticized her for buying peanuts, claiming they were harmful. Jane’s daughter, Billie, confronted Amanda, revealing the truth. “I’ve been trying to get pregnant for two years, but each pregnancy ended in a miscarriage. My mom offered to be a surrogate mother.”

Realizing her mistake, Amanda apologized to Jane. “I’m sorry I judged you without knowing your story.” Jane forgave her, and Amanda vowed to be more understanding. They eventually became good friends, with Amanda supporting Jane throughout her pregnancy and beyond.