Where the Streets Have No Name
Chapter 22
Edward took a step closer to Carmen, then cautiously extended his hand to lay it on top of hers.
There was life within her.
Part him.
He knew it was too early to feel for a heartbeat, but that didn't matter, he could sense it.
This wasn't supposed to happen like this. The order of things were all wrong. He should be older, further up the hierarchy in his career, and madly in love with the woman of his dreams.
Yet, here they were. Ready or not.
He lifted his face to look at Carmen's. She looked troubled, scared. He wondered if his own face was reflecting the same emotions. He would have to be careful about that; the burden lay on him to be the source of strength and courage for them both.
She was beautiful; there was no doubt about that. She was smart; her GPA would vouch for it. Was it really that outlandish a hope that someday he could be in love with her the way his father loved his mother?
It could happen. He would have to believe that it was possible.
They had a long road ahead of them, and they had a lot to talk about.
He smiled and pulled her into his arms, realizing that it was the most physical contact they had shared since she told him about the pregnancy. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed the top of her head.
"We should talk," he said.
"I know," she replied.
"Can I get you something to drink?"
"Vodka martini," she deadpanned.
Edward pushed himself away from their embrace to ascertain her expression.
"I'm kidding, Edward. Gawd, you should see that look on your face," Carmen said teasingly as she shook her head in disdain.
They both laughed at the joke, perhaps for the first time in a long while.
Neither could know that it would also be the last time they shared a moment of unadulterated cheer.
In the days to come, carefree giggles and mirth would be in short supply.
Thank you Lulabelle98, HeidiJoVT, and Dinx.