Prompt 1 - Alternative: one of the things, propositions, or courses of action that can be chosen.
The day has been too long, Owen thinks as he lets himself into the house. Trauma victims that never had a fighting chance, children whose bruises and broken bones seemed more than accidental, and then there was that phone call from an Iraq buddy digging up memories.
He thinks that he needs to lose his head into an inane TV show or maybe a game. Football, hockey, he doesn't care which. All he wants is mindless action. And beer. Definitely a beer.
The light is on in the living room and he can hear the faint sounds of the TV. He pushes the door open and peers in. The sight that greets him almost takes his breath away. He doesn't think that it will ever stop having that effect on him.
Cristina is asleep on the couch. Her hair is a wild mess and frames her face. The necklace he gave her last year for Christmas ("Seriously? If you still haven't figured out by now that I'm Jewish, then we have to reconsider things," she had said.) rests on her collarbone. It sparkles in the dim light. Her hands are laid out on her swollen belly. Protectively.
Owen sits at the end of the couch, lifting Cristina's feet and placing them in his lap. She moves a little and a small moan escapes her lips. He places his hand on top of hers and wonders at the small miracle growing inside her belly. Their miracle.
He sits like this for a long time, his gaze never leaving Cristina.
Her eyes blink open. "Are you staring at me?"
"A little."
"Creepy stalker."
He chuckles. One that comes from deep within his chest. He thinks about that game and beer he had wanted. He thinks that the alternative is so much better.