Thirty-six weeks into Joel's pregnancy and things were getting tense onboard the Satellite of Love. Mike was nervous about having to deliver the baby, while the bots were nervous that something bad was going to happen to Joel or the baby.
Joel was walking around his quarters looking for a book to read when he realized that his stomach had dropped. He put his hands on his stomach and tried to feel for any other unusual physical signs of impending labor.
Mike knocked on his door. "Joel? You awake?"
"Yeah Mike. Come on in."
Mike walked in and was still a little startled to see Joel's stomach so big. "You okay?" He didn't like the way Joel was probing his own abdomen.
"Yeah, I think so. My stomach dropped down."
"Isn't that supposed to happen when... you know... it's 'show time'?"
"Yeah, but it still feels weird. I don't like weight shifting itself around and getting kicked."
"I can only imagine." Mike realized what he said. "Literally. I can only imagine."
Joel laughed. "Or we could ask Dr. Forrester to upload a new computer program and-"
"No! No thanks!" Mike blushed. "I have no business taking care of another human being, I can barely take care of myself."
"You'd do fine. Anyone who can handle those bots can handle anyone and anything else."
"Thanks, but I doubt I should be in charge of anyone who can't run, speak or feed themself."
Joel shook his head as he returned his attention to the book he was looking for. "Well, I trust you."
"Thanks..."
"Now if you'll excuse me, I'd like to do some reading and try to relax."
"You're looking much better than you have been the past few weeks. What changed?"
"Must be because the baby dropped lower in my abdomen. Now I can breathe and sleep easier."
"Oh. How do you... know what's going on?"
"I just do. I can't explain it."
"Right. I'm going to finish my laundry, you need anything?" Mike lied, he just wanted to check on Joel without 'mother-henning' the poor guy.
"I'm good." Joel sat on his bunk with a heavy plop. "I'm sure Gypsy will be here in a few minutes to ask the same question."
Mike smiled. "Without a doubt!" He exited Joel's cabin and casually strolled NOT toward the laundry room, but toward the bridge. He quickly remembered what he told Joel and clumsily changed direction.
Joel just laughed and put his hand on his stomach. "You know, I think you'll like Mike as much as I do. Good guy. A little weird, but that results in creativity."
The baby started kicking and Joel rubbed his hands up and down his stomach affectionately.
"I'm really looking forward to meeting you. I already know it'll be love at first sight."
-next chapter-