Claire spent the next couple of hours sat in the café; watching as people came and went without a care in the world. She was envious of this. All they had to worry about was ensuring their assignments were handed in on time. But, unfortunately fate had made Claire different. She had been thrust into a situation that only married working women would face; where a child would bring happiness and not misery. But sadly, ever since she was blessed with the news there had been nothing but misery.

Claire took a couple of sips of the oasis berry tea that she had purchased half an hour ago. Ever since she had found out she was pregnant she had developed a fondness for this particular brew: must be the baby. Well, at least they have good taste. This thought brought a brief smile to her face. But, soon the moment passed. Her mind kept wandering back to what her father had said "Your mother is not going to like that" and as much as she hated to admit it he was right. Her mother will not like that. Claire felt rather foolish being so defiant with her father, it's just she is too old to be dictated to. But, as old as she was it was certainly known that she wasn't old enough to be a mother, nor was Hershel to be a father.

Claire's mind wandered to Hershel. He was such a sweet young man and she felt as though she had corrupted him, that she had ruined his life as well as her own. This saddened her. She had always prized herself as being so responsible but now she was ruined. How could she, a student, manage balancing her studies with prospect of motherhood? She shuddered at this thought and as much as she tried to convince herself she knew she wouldn't be able to cope. But, surely she couldn't give up on her child? Could she? Maybe she was having second thoughts? Surely not….

Claire's thoughts were interrupted by a voice from behind her.

"Claire!" the voice called "There you are, I was so worried!"

Claire turned round to see Hershel strolling towards her. She managed a weak smile but it didn't last long. Hershel could sense her upset and took a seat facing her. He cupped her hand in his.

"What is it?" Hershel whispered, the concern evident in his voice, "What's happened…is the baby alright?"

Claire found his concern heart-warming, but right now nothing could improve her mood.

"Hershel nothing's wrong," she mumbled, trying to put on a brave face "It's just…"

Hershel shuffled further towards her until he was perched on the very end of his chair.

"What?" he asked

"Do you think we are doing the right thing?" she muttered, looking straight into his deep, dark eyes.

Hershel sighed sadly. He had been deluding himself that everything would be just fine but had forgotten about the sheer effect that this is having on her.

"Claire," he mumbled, a lump forming in his throat "I love you so much and will love you whatever happens,"

"I know that," she smiled, her eyes filling with tears "But seriously, can we really cope with this?"

Hershel smiled back at her "We will only be able to cope if we want to and if we are sure this is what we want,"

"Your right," she smiled, slightly unconvinced but also spurred on by his words. She pulled a small handkerchief from her pocket and dabbed her eyes lightly.

"Sorry for getting so upset," she said "It's just my father was here today,"

Hershel's smile was immediately wiped from his face.

"He reminded me that I am still young and shouldn't be throwing my life away like this," Claire sighed.

"It will only be throwing our lives away if we let it do so;" he began "We are in the ones in control,"

It was encouraging to hear Hershel say this but she contemplated whether he as being a bit naïve. Still, she loved Hershel and was sure that whatever happened he would stick by her. She leant forward and wrapped her arms around him. He responded likewise; a perfect moment.

However, all that glitters is not gold for, behind her, through the window and behind a great oak tree stood a man. A sly grin was planted on his face. Her heart sank.