“Chuck.” Ben pressed his lips to the top of her head. “What’s wrong?”
“I’m a terrible person.”
“Come on, don’t say that.”
“I am,” Charlie cried. How had she been so blind? “I’m going to make a horrible mother.”
“I’m not going to let you talk like that.” Ben pulled her hands away from her face. “Look at me, Chuck. I know you can’t tell me what happened today, but I’m here. I’m always here. Whatever it is, we’ll face it together. You and me. Always.”
“Do you promise?”
“Of course I promise.” Ben held tight to her hands. “I love you.”
“I love you, too.” She kissed his hands. She thought about what might be growing inside of her belly. “With my last breath.”
Another corny line, but true.
Ben gave her his awkward grin. He wiped the tears from her eyes. “I’ve got at least an hour before they’re ready for me. What do you want for dinner?”
She shook her head. She couldn’t think about eating.
“Okay, Chef’s choice.” He stood up and went to the fridge. “Chicken? Hm … that chicken looks kind of gamey.”
Charlie reached into her purse. She found the white cardboard box.
Ben said, “I could do a roast, but I’m not sure about the veggies. I can make spaghetti. Oh, there’s still some General Ho’s. Do you want—”
“Ben?”
He glanced back over his shoulder. “Yeah?”
“I’m pregnant.”