Kate sat on the sofa. She was numb all over. She knew she should get up and do something about dinner, but she couldn't think about anything. She heard the phone ring and before she could muster up the energy to answer it, she heard Tony's voice. Letting her head fall back on the cushion behind her, the day's events played around in her mind like a warped video. How on earth could this be happening to her? Pregnant, and screwed up at that. Can't do anything right, can you, Kate?' she thought to herself. Can't even do something unplanned right.' Her emotions were so thoroughly jumbled that sorting through them was impossible. Instead, she closed her eyes and let fatigue crawl over her. She felt the sofa dip underneath the weight of her lover as he sat down beside her.

Hey, Hon. That was the doctor. She said you're all set for surgery at eight tomorrow. Nothing to eat or drink after eight tonight, okay? Tony spoke softly while he held her hand. She nodded in response, but said nothing. He glanced down at their hands then continued. I hope you don't mind, but I took the opportunity to ask her about the procedure.

Kate lifted her head slightly at this and opened her eyes. He went on, Apparently it works a lot like arthroscopy, three incisions, one at your navel for the camera and two very low on the abdomen for the tools. The big difference is that they need to expand your abdominal cavity some with carbon dioxide so they can move around. When they're done they'll pump out the gas.

Kate was horrified. It was better than having to be opened up, but it still sounded awful. Did she say how long it would take to recover? She was amazed her voice could sound so normal when she felt so flawed.

She said to take it easy for a couple of days afterward. She also said she'd tell all of this to you tomorrow before the surgery, and she'd give you written instructions at discharge so you wouldn't forget. The only reason she told me now was because I asked. Tony saw the worry in her eyes and wanted nothing more than to comfort her. Before it gets too late, what would you like for dinner? I'll be happy to cook something, or we can order in.

I don't know, Tony. I can't think. I feel like I have all these thoughts just chasing around in my head and I can't make sense of anything. She tried to keep the misery out of her voice but she wasn't entirely successful.

Tony thought for a fast second and then glanced at his watch. You know, it's not too late, I bet we could get there and get dinner before eight. Want to go to Belissima? he asked, naming her favorite Italian restaurant.

Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. If anything can fix a rotten day it has to be decadent food with a gorgeous man. She smiled at him and happily accepted the kisses he showered on her.

The restaurant was relatively quiet and the couple were seated a corner table. Try as she might, Kate couldn't get the worry out of her mind. Tony tried to cheer her but her smile was weak at best. Finally he took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.

Kate, it's going to be okay. I'm going to be right there with you. Now let's just relax for tonight, because we can't do anything about it now. Okay, love?

She nodded. I'm sorry. I just can't help feeling like I've screwed up, you know? And even though I know everything will be okay, I'm still worried. It's one of those what else can go wrong' things. She drew comfort from the warmth of his hand as though she were thirsting and he was cool, sweet water.

The pain in her voice nearly broke his heart. Kate, it's not your fault! Please, Honey, stop blaming yourself.

How do you know? The anguished tone turned the question into a quiet, pleading cry for absolution.

Because I... he trailed off as the waitress brought their dinners. As soon as they were alone, he began again. Because I know it's not your fault, Kate. He paused, and she looked into his eyes. It's just something we need to face together. He gave her hand another gentle squeeze.

For the first time that day Kate could see the love in his eyes and could feel like she deserved it. Swallowing the tears that threatened, she nodded hastily, afraid to speak.

They settled down to eat, and Kate realized she was famished. Between the appointments and spending most of the day worried, she'd ignored her body's need for sustenance. The steaming plate of food in front of her drew Kate into epicurean heaven, letting the stress of the day trickle away. By the end of the meal, they were both beginning to feel better.

When they were ready to leave, Tony helped Kate from her chair and wrapped his arm around her. They walked slowly out to the car, Kate leaning on him and soaking up all the loving comfort she could feel radiating from his strong, supportive body.