Catherine's bar was a popular spot amongst the locals, even those on extended vacations. Camille's mother was hospitable, charming even. Her bar laying its roots in the Caribbean island since the late 90's. Camille and Richard take a seat at one of the small tables nearest the ocean.
Sounds of gulls screeching overhead and indistinct chattering from the surrounding couples. Within a matter of minutes, Richard predictably starts griping. Camille sighs, shaking her head and laughs.
"Y'know, you're gonna have to get used to this eventually. You still have three more months left to go"
The D.I. lets out an irascible groan and shoots her an irked glance.
"God, don't remind me"
She notices her mother approaching their table and swiftly lays a hand over his. Her face bursting into a grin.
"My mother's coming! We should tell her about de baby"
A look of panic washed over the Englishman. Under no circumstances, ever, did he want the bar owner knowing of their situation. However, taking into consideration this was the mother of his child seated across from him. Combined with the fact that, even if he never admitted it, he loved this woman. He figured he could bite the bullet and go along with it, for her.
"And how are you two this evening?"
She inquired once reaching the couple. Richard simply nodded and mumbled a "good", whilst Camille was a bit more high in spirits. She patted the D.I.'s hand and smiled.
"Great, maman! Well, more than great, actually.."
"Oh?" the older woman exclaimed in short.
"We're havin' a baby!"
Catherine was so caught up in the announcement that she failed even attempting to catch the drink tray as it fell. Hand flew over her mouth, eyes lit up. Soon both mother and daughter wrap each other in a hug. The bar owner overwhelmed with jubilance. Meanwhile, Richard was now regretting for ever having gone along with this.
"C'mon, Richard..stand up so I can see you"
The older woman pleads. Eyes still vibrant from the news. He still was very much adamant towards this nonsense. But again, it was for Camille. He groans, getting to his feet. Catherine gasps in awe.
"Look at you, Richard! 'tis wonderful. May I feel my grandbaby?"
His eyes went wide. This was getting ridiculous. He didn't like people touching him, especially now.
"I'd rather you didn't"
He then catches a quick glimpse of Camille giving him a stern look before clearing her throat. "Fine, make it quick" he continued exasperatedly. She unwittingly let out a small shriek of delight as her hands flew to his abdoman. Richard sighs.
"Naturally, the one time you try to get him to move and he doesn't"
He said, agitation bordering his tone. Catherine moved her hand to his side and replied softly.
"You are forgetting I am de baby-whisperer"
He rolls his eyes as Camille lets out a hearty laugh. But all be damned, no sooner had she uttered such lunacy did, in fact, the baby give a light nudge in response. Again, another gasp from Catherine.
"Oooh, looks like my grandson will need a pair of soccer cleats"
She jests. Richard on the other hand, wasn't finding the humor in this particular situation. Camille could tell he had his fill of touchy-feely for one lifetime and asked if they could get Richard's tea to-go. As her mother leaves to fetch the hot beverage, he turns and shoots Camille a look that she swore bore holes.
"Let this be known right now, Camille Bordey. There will be no more children after this..deal?"
Her head tilts back in laughter and she lays a hand on his shoulder.
"deal"
The couple arrive back at the station to see the Commissioner standing beside the whiteboard. His expression liken to a bulldog. Richard could never tell if he was in a good mood or not.
"Inspector, I don't know if you've noticed. But we have an active crime investigation. Do you really find it necessary to break away for high tea?"
The portly man had a way of getting underneath Richard's skin. Though, it was in his best interests not to argue with someone of his caliber. Camille, however felt a pang of guilt and rushed to his defense.
"Sir, it wasn't his fault. I suggested de tea, and de case is still very early"
It appeared as though he still wore a slight scowl and raised a brow.
"I see..make sure I'm informed of any new developments"
With this he begins departing. Dwayne, of course, not forgetting to acknowledge him with a salute and "Commissioner" from his desk, as the man neared the door. It was then, the D.I.'s midsection caught his attention.
"Inspector.. I would think you of all people would know the importance of keeping within a certain 'weight range' concerning your job"
Right away he could hear Dwayne unsuccessfully try and stifle his laughter. Camille wide-eyed, not believing what she had just heard. Oh, the things he could say. If his job weren't at stake he would. He bit his tongue briefly before responding.
"Well sir, with all due respect. Pregnancy makes keeping within that "range" rather problematic. Wouldn't you agree?"