Jealous Pouting
"He doesn't like me," Lucien said quietly.
"No, he doesn't," Jean agreed. He looked at her incredulously, and she allowed a small giggle to escape her lips. "Well he doesn't! There's no use in denying it."
Lucien took a deep breath and knocked on the door. It opened a moment later, revealing a smiling Jack Beazley. "Mum! Hi!" He hugged Jean warmly before turning to Lucien. "Doctor Blake," Jack greeted coldly with a stiff nod.
The whole evening, Lucien watched his wife have a wonderful time with her son. She was radiantly happy, particularly when Jack revealed he had made supper for them all. Lucien was completely ignored. He sat quietly, visibly apart from the Beazleys. Because that's what they were. Jean wasn't his wife now. She was Jack's mother and nothing else.
Lucien knew he shouldn't be jealous. He knew he shouldn't take it personally. And really, it did make him happy to see her enjoying herself, seeing how far Jack had come. His own house (rented), and a job (working as a field hand for the season in Bendigo). He was doing surprisingly well. Jean was so proud. And Lucien couldn't wait to leave. He didn't like being brushed aside, even if it was understandable.
At last, the evening was over. Jack and Jean had their fond farewell. Jack didn't say a word to Lucien.
They got in the car, Lucien quietly pouting. Jean was gushing with pride about Jack. "And did you see? He has a set of dishes that match! Dinner forks and salad forks. An entire three course meal! I honestly never thought I'd see the day."
"Mmm," Lucien grunted noncommittally.
"Thank you for coming with me. I know you didn't have any fun."
"He's your son. And he did invite us both. I wouldn't have considered not going," he replied with a shrug.
Jean felt a warmth bloom in her chest. "Lucien, stop the car."
He pulled over on the side of the lonely country road. "What's the matter?"
But Jean didn't respond She leaned over kissed him passionately. "I can't wait any longer," she mumbled against his lips.
Lucien pulled her off him. "Hang on, what? I thought you didn't want me! You paid more attention to the bloody wallpaper than to me!"
"Oh don't whine. I go home with you and share your bed. I haven't seen my son in almost three years! And you might remember that you had him arrested last time. I can't help getting excited that he can cook a meal and wants to show me his wallpaper!"
He sighed, "I know you're right, I'm sorry. I suppose I'm not used to having to share your attentions."
She caressed his cheek. "He's my son, Lucien. And you are my husband."
He brightened a bit. "Yes, I suppose I am."
"Now please drive us home so you can perform your husbandly duties."
Lucien chuckled as he restarted the engine. "You're in quite the mood."
"I'm very happy. And I would like to continue the good feelings."
As he drove, Lucien took his wife's hand and gave it a reverent kiss, thinking of all the good feelings he would be giving her as soon as they closed their bedroom door.