Author's Note: So sorry for the delay. Summer vacation was a lot more chaotic than originally anticipated. If you are still reading, please let me know what you think of this chapter. Thanks.
Disclaimer: I own nothing.
The wave of dizziness washes over Evelyn, reminding her that even though she has been released from the hospital, it will take longer than just a couple of days for her to fully recover. The moment she sways, a steadying hand is placed at her waist. By this point she doesn't care if it belongs to James or Adrian; both men are driving her insane with their incessant coddling. She appreciates them putting aside their differences and showing her so much care and concern, but she is not an invalid. She doesn't want or need their constant monitoring and hovering. Glancing back, she is met with one of James' luminescent smiles.
"You ok?" He asks, pulling her closer so she can lean against him. She forces a smile, reminding herself he, like Adrian, is just concerned about her and the baby. She also tries to remain calm, reminding herself of Doctor Greely's warning about taxing her system. Any negative feelings she might be experiencing with either man in her life, is causing her stress; something that isn't good for her or the baby.
"Fine," she replies curtly, unable to keep the bite out of her words.
Evelyn pulls away, James relinquishing his hold on her. He watches as she walks over to the sofa, resuming the spot she had been occupying. She picks up the book she was reading, but he knows it is more a way to put some space between them than her interest in the words. She has been very vocal about her displeasure with his and Adrian's 'coddling' as she calls it. He doesn't care what she calls it; he doesn't want anything to happen to her or the baby.
"Is she adhering to the doctor's orders?" Adrian asks entering the study, pleased to see Evelyn where she was before he left. From the frigid atmosphere, he deduces James has done something to displease Evelyn.
"She," Evelyn practically spits in disgust, "is following the doctor's instructions! She is also sitting right here, fully capable of answering for herself!"
James shoots Adrian a look, shaking his head. In the two days since Evelyn's release from the hospital, this is how it has been between the three of them. Wisely, Carmen has decided to stay out of their way as much as possible, busying herself with cleaning. The house hasn't been this clean in the entirety of her employment with the Powells.
"I'm sorry," Adrian holds his hand up in surrender, reminding himself she doesn't need the stress of an argument. He is still so happy she and the baby are all right, he will gladly accept any verbal abuse she deems necessary.
James glances between the two, forces a smile from creeping across his face, then clears his throat. "If you're back," he says to Adrian, "I am going to leave for my service." Adrian nods in response.
"Excuse me?!" Evelyn's tone is murderous as she looks up from the book, pinning both men with her eyes. They share another look, James realizing too late the mistake he has just made. "I do not need a damned babysitter!" Evelyn declares, tossing her book onto the sofa. She stands, refusing to allow her weakened state to show.
"Evelyn, we're just worried about you," James tries.
"At least we're getting along," Adrian offers with a shrug. Evelyn continues to glare at the men, pursing her lips and closing her eyes. She takes a few deep breaths, both wanting to ask if she is all right, but neither willing to risk it. If she appears she is about to faint, James is just a step or two away.
"I understand that," she sighs heavily, the tension leaving her body. "But I am fine. The baby is fine. In a few months, you two can play babysitter to an actual baby, but for now, stop it, please!" She hates the pleading tone her voice takes on, but she is still exhausted and weak.
"Ok." James and Adrian speak at the same time, nodding.
Evelyn's gaze stays on the two for a moment longer, then she returns to her seat on the sofa. She truly appreciates how they are handling themselves. They have surprised her with this united front, putting their feelings towards each other aside, but she doesn't want to be reminded of how fragile everything is. Her world has been shattered before, and though she remains cognizant of the fact anything could happen at any time, their constant concern and treading around her so lightly, only reminds her of how close she came to losing this child. Food poisoning during pregnancy is a lot more severe than most would assume.
"Please, rest," James whispers into her ear before placing a kiss to her cheek. Evelyn looks up at him, his eyes pleading. Reluctantly, she nods, holding back the response that wants to slip from her lips.
"I will," she says instead, leaning back into the sofa. James smiles at her, pleased she doesn't seem to anger at the suggestion, then turns to the door. He gives Adrian a passing glance, silently telling Adrian to watch over her without driving her insane. Adrian nods, for once glad to have the reverend around. His presence has helped in aiding Evelyn's recovery, even if she has met every one of their attempts to care for her with resistance.
When James leaves, Evelyn picks up where she was in her book. Adrian makes his way to the bar. He prepares himself a drink then pours Evelyn a glass of water. It hasn't been easy for her to consume much food but she has managed to increase her liquid intake. Doctor Greely assured him that is a good thing and that in time her appetite will return. He wishes she would eat more than just a piece of dry toast or a cracker here and there, but she is looking better. Her fiery attitude has certainly returned.
Adrian carries the drinks to the sofas, places her glass on the coffee table, then sits opposite of her. She chances a glance over her book, rolling her eyes when she catches him staring. She doesn't mention this, or the fact she has asked him multiple times to stop. She reaches for the glass, thanks him for the drink, then takes a small sip. Her stomach remains sensitive, but she must make the effort to stay hydrated. Ensuring the arrival of a healthy child is top priority.
Three days in the hospital, two days back home, and finally Evelyn is beginning to feel slightly more like herself. She continues to be hesitant around food, but slowly her appetite is returning. She is aware of the several pounds she lost during her sickness, but she isn't to the point where she can force herself to eat more than just a few bites, at least not yet. James and Adrian, thankfully, haven't pushed the issue of food, but they always make sure she has a drink in hand.
The two men who have caused her moments of anger, followed by times of being truly touched by their care, have finally deemed it safe to leave her side, if only for a few minutes. James is attending a meeting to discuss a return visit to Chino, and Adrian, though he remains in the mansion, has decided his constant monitoring is no longer needed. He is somewhere in the house on the phone harassing a fellow country club member.
It is a relief to not be under constant scrutiny from one, or both men, but Evelyn has to admit she appreciates the care and concern they have lavished her with. She is also enjoying the civility between the two. She doubts it will remain, but she can hope. For now, she plans on enjoying the solitude of sitting in the study reading, her hand placed protectively on her stomach. Since fearing a miscarriage, she has become obsessed with touching the small amount of proof her child is all right. The expanding of her stomach offers her the reassurance she craves, and now that Carmen knows about the pregnancy, it no longer matters if she walks in and catches Evelyn cupping her stomach.
"Someone's got good taste," Carmen chirps from the doorway, holding a package in her hand as she shakes it. Evelyn groans; her thoughts of the maid must have summoned her.
"What?" She asks, placing her book down. In a house this large, how does it always seem she is never allowed more than a moment or two of peace?
"Someone sent you chocolates. The good kind!" Carmen smiles brightly, holding the box higher for Evelyn to see.
"They're probably from James," she says dismissively, the thought of such a rich treat turning her stomach. It doesn't surprise her he is still trying to redeem himself for not being there when she needed him. No matter how many times she reassures him she doesn't hold it against him, he continues to apologize.
"These are expensive! I thought preachers were poor." Carmen perches on the sofa across from Evelyn, eyeing the red head.
"We do not discuss James' wealth, or lack thereof," Evelyn scoffs. There is so much more to their relationship than just money. It was the same with Adrian, even though he made sure everyone was aware of his vast wealth. Still, a relationship should be built on more than just a mutual affinity for large bank accounts and extravagant luxuries.
"They're still expensive chocolates," Carmen doesn't really care if James is rich or poor: he obviously has good taste.
"You may have them if you'd like."
There's no point in them going to waste.
"Ooh, thanks," Carmen's smile widens. She was hoping to talk Evelyn out of one or two, but she will happily accept the entire box. She doesn't frequently allow herself such a decadent treat, but she hasn't had such an expensive delicacy since she worked for Alejandro. As for the calories, she can burn them off when she cleans the kitchen.
Evelyn watches as her maid acts like a child on Christmas morning. The smile has never left Carmen's face. She carefully opens the box, her eyes roaming the selection. For now, she will allow herself just one, but she must choose wisely. Growing bored waiting for Carmen to select a chocolate, Evelyn reaches for the mail Carmen placed on the coffee table.
"Carmen, do you have a secret admirer?" Adrian asks entering the studying, his attention drawn to the large, expensive box of chocolates.
"They're Mrs. Powell's," Carmen answers, her eyes remaining glued to the candies.
"Oh. Reverend Boyfriend still feeling guilty?" Adrian asks Evelyn as he walks over to her.
"Apparently," Evelyn replies with a roll of her eyes.
She looks up from the Country Club newsletter, slightly annoyed they still send out paper copies when an e-mail would suffice. Her feelings toward with the club's archaic communication approach is forgotten as she notices Adrian about to sit down beside her. She quickly lifts her feet from the floor, bringing her legs to rest across the sofa. There is no way for Adrian to sit with her stretched out like this.
"What are you doing?" He asks, brow furrowed.
"I've already told you, multiple times, to stop hovering. Obviously, you are unable to respect that request." Evelyn narrows her eyes at him.
"Evelyn," he sighs, his patience wearing thin. He is aware of her dissatisfaction with his, and James', close monitoring, but he is worried about her. About their child. This mutual concern for her and the child is the only thing that has kept both men's tongues and tempers in check.
Carmen has watched this scene many times over the past couple of days. It plays out the same every time. Adrian apologizes, promises to not hover quite as much, Evelyn rolls her eyes at the empty promise, then the two go on until the next time they feel the need to do it all over again. Currently, Carmen is too involved in choosing the perfect chocolate to care about the never-ending drama of the Powells. Carefully, Carmen selects one, her eyes closing in pleasure at the scent of the rich chocolate. She takes a bite, the flavor intoxicating, but there is something wrong. The center is slimy and there is something wriggling in her mouth. Horrified, she looks down at the piece of chocolate that remains in her hand, almost passing out when she sees maggots squirming in the chocolate. Without thinking she spits out the bite in her mouth, screams, then begins gagging. Evelyn and Adrian are caught off guard by this, their argument forgotten.
"Carmen, are you all right?" Evelyn asks, concerned about the maid. She has never seen the woman act in such a manner. Carmen is unable to answer, coughing and gagging to rid herself of any remnants for the disgusting, maggot-infested chocolate. She points to the floor.
"Are those maggots?" Adrian asks, squinting in disbelief.
"Oh God," Evelyn groans at the sight. Her stomach is still much too sensitive to handle something like that, but even if she wasn't pregnant and on the mend from a bout with food poisoning, the sight of maggots wriggling out of a piece of cholate would be enough to send her running for the bathroom. "Get her some water," she orders, focusing on Carmen instead of the disgusting sight.
Evelyn sits beside Carmen while Adrian fetches her a glass of water. Once she has taken a couple of sips, she is no longer sputtering, but she remains thoroughly disgusted. Adrian cleans up the maggot infested chocolate at Evelyn's request, then studies the box.
"Where did you get these?" he asks. Evelyn sends him a curious look but he holds up his hand, encouraging her wait.
"They were in the mailbox," Carmen answers shakily.
"You said they're Evelyn's. What made you think that?" Adrian doesn't like where this is going. He chances a look at Evelyn, realization settling across her face.
"The card." Carmen leans across Evelyn, reaching for the lid she placed on the coffee table. Attached to it is an envelope with Evelyn's name scrawled on it.
"Let me see that," Evelyn says, pulling the card from the lid. She opens the envelope and pulls out a typed note. She honestly thought the chocolates were from James, but the note leaves no doubt in her mind; James isn't the one that sent them. With shaking hands, she passes the note to Adrian.
~ "Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will Judge." -Hebrews 13:4
I pray for God to forgive your sins and to lead you in his way. A harlot is not fit for a man of God as holy and good as the Reverend. Repent your sins, Harlot! ~
"What the hell?" Adrian can't quite comprehend this note.
"Apparently, someone doesn't approve of me dating James," Evelyn answers, the note making her angry. This so-called 'Christian' and their judgmental, hypocritical ways infuriates her.
"I don't approve of the relationship either, but I don't send you expensive chocolates with maggot filled centers," Adrian can't believe she is handling this so calmly. "We should call the police!"
Evelyn scoffs at the suggestion.
"Definitely!" Carmen agrees, her voice raw from all the gagging and coughing.
"Call the police if you wish; I'm calling James." She wants to know if he has any idea who is behind this. The annoying texts with bible quotes she can overlook, the disemboweled cat in the mailbox was appalling, but this has gone too far. This has entered her house, and though it didn't actually harm Carmen, it has upset her greatly. Evelyn is willing to overlook certain things, but when it effects the people in her home, she refuses to remain silent.
While Evelyn calls James, Adrian phones the police. He isn't the least bit amused by this vile deed. For some reason the note creeps him out. He's never been too trusting of the religious types, but whoever sent this 'gift' seems very unstable. He won't have his wife and unborn child subjected to this insanity.
By the time James arrives at the mansion, the police have already left. There isn't much they can do other than dust for finger prints. The only ones on the box, lid, and card belong to Carmen and the Powells. The security footage of the front gate was of no use because just like with the disemboweled cat, all that is shown on the video is a figure of medium height wearing a black hoodie that never looks at the camera. James hates to hear this, finding this latest 'prank', as Evelyn insists on calling these acts, disgusting.
"Any idea who would do this?" Adrian asks from the bar, nursing a glass of bourbon. The man is livid, a feeling James shares. Unfortunately, the current thought running through his mind is only going to worsen the situation.
"James?" Evelyn asks, finding his silence odd. Just moments earlier he agreed with Adrian, both men urging her to take these 'threats' more seriously. "What's wrong?"
James glances up at Evelyn then over to Adrian. The Powells share a look then turn their full attention on James.
"What aren't you saying?" Adrian asks, rounding the bar to come stand near the sofa. Evelyn takes a seat beside James, placing her hand over his.
"James?" She asks again, concerned.
He sighs heavily then begins explaining. "About two years ago, I was seeing someone." He pauses to gauge Evelyn's reaction, continuing when she simply nods. "Sarah started receiving these odd letters, sometimes they had Bible verses written in them."
Evelyn's eyes widen as she absorbs the words. This information is unexpected. Adrian is quicker to react, nearing James. His eyes have also widened, a deathly glare settling across his face, as a vein in his forehead throbs.
"You're just now thinking of mentioning this?" He bellows, only stopping when Evelyn places her hand against his arm. Right now, the last thing any of them needs is for a fight to break out between the two men.
"At the time, we thought it was her ex," James explains. Until now there hasn't been a reason to think of Sarah and their short-lived romance.
"Did Sarah receive any other gifts?" Evelyn asks calmly, hoping to make sense of this latest bit of information.
"Just letters. What we had wasn't serious; it only lasted a couple of months." James touches Evelyn's cheek, wanting to assure her the relationship he had with Sarah was nothing compared to what they share.
"You really thought it was the ex? Was he a bible thumper, too?" Adrian blurts out, not minding in the least he is interrupting this little moment between the two.
"Adrian," Evelyn hisses in warning.
"I did think it was the ex," James sighs heavily, ignoring the rest of what Adrian said. "Until now."
Evelyn looks aghast then turns to Adrian. The two share a look before turning back to face James.
"What has changed your mind?" Evelyn inquires, curious as to what he is talking about.
"In one of the notes Sarah received, Hebrews 13:4 was quoted."
"So, sleeping with married women is your hobby, and to show you the errors of your ways, one of your devoted flock harasses the women you're having an affair with?" Adrian almost finds this comical. If his wife, as well as their unborn child, wasn't caught in the crosshairs of this, he would laugh.
"I didn't sleep with Sarah. Like I said, it was casual." James shakes his head, more focused on figuring out who is doing this than discussing his previous entanglements.
"So, it's only my wife you sleep with?" Suddenly Adrian is angered by this.
"That's enough, Adrian!" Evelyn's tone is a low growl as she glares at her husband. She then turns back to James. "I've met your congregation; they are lovely people. Even hateful old Ethel." Evelyn cringes at the eldest member of the group, a woman that truly despises her.
"Looks can be deceiving." James rubs his forehead, disturbed by the thought that one of his members is capable of this. "I'll have a talk with them." James decides, unwilling to allow this behavior to continue.
"I don't think that's necessary," Evelyn tries, not wanting to interfere with the relationship James has with the members of his church.
"Ev-uh-lynn," Adrian groans. "Let the man speak with his flock. Maybe he'll be able to find the wolf in sheep's clothing."
Evelyn is about to admonish Adrian again when James begins to speak. "He's right, Evelyn. This needs to stop!"
Evelyn shakes her head and sighs. Of course, the two men agree on this. She has to admit it seems a bit too coincidental that James' ex and she have both received notes with the same Bible verse, but that doesn't change the fact she has met his congregation. They are all kind people, even if there are the few that do not like her.
"Do as you'd like," she says, resigned.
Adrian and James are already discussing the best way to approach the church members. Evelyn rolls her eyes, tired of the two getting along so well, as well as feeling nauseated by the thought of the chocolates. Without a word, she stands from the sofa and heads for the door, refusing the offers of help from the two.
Despite Adrian's and James' protestations, Evelyn has returned to work. Doctor Greely rendered their arguments invalid when she agreed Evelyn could return if she keeps to light work. Marisol has made sure she has, only tasking her with menial jobs. Unlike Adrian and James, Marisol doesn't hover, a fact Evelyn is very appreciative of. The care and concern the men have shown her is valued, but she is tired of being under constant scrutiny. Sitting in the office, sorting through applications, Evelyn is relieved to finally have some time alone. It took a bit of persuading on her part, but finally Marisol relented and left for lunch with Peter. The two need to discuss the future of their relationship.
Unfortunately, only fifty-some minutes after Peter picked her up, Marisol calls Evelyn. She told Peter about her fling with Jesse, resulting in Peter leaving her stranded at the restaurant. She apologizes to Evelyn, aware of the fact she doesn't have her own car since James dropped her off this morning, but implores Evelyn to come get her. She agrees, grabbing the keys to Marisol's car on the way out. So much for the peace and quiet she was hoping to enjoy.
During the entirety of the harlot's time with the Reverend, she has never driven her own car to any of the events. She is probably afraid one of the members, since they aren't of her snotty standards, will dent her car. It is surprising to see the woman getting out of an expensive looking black car, but of course she would drive a car the color of her soul. As she makes her way to an upscale restaurant, a plan takes shape. This way there is no chance of harming the unborn child, but it will be an inconvenience to the woman.
Marisol is a little tipsy as Evelyn and she exit the restaurant later. What was supposed to be Evelyn just picking her up turned into a small lunch consisting of salads, water for the expecting mother, and a few glasses of wine for an upset Marisol. She does feel better after the wine and a few tears and several laughs with Evelyn, but the sun is blindingly bright as they make their way to the car.
"Give me the keys," Evelyn tells her as they near the car. Marisol doesn't argue, instead digs in her purse for the keys she carelessly tossed in there earlier. She really did plan on driving them home.
"Thank you, again," Marisol repeats, wanting to make sure Evelyn knows just how much she appreciates her being there. Evelyn pats her arm, a small smile tugging at her lips. She never thought Marisol and she would become friends, but it is a relationship she cherishes. She has never had many close female friends, but now that she does, she doesn't know how she has survived all these years without one.
Evelyn presses the button to unlock the car, stopping in her tracks when she notices the driver's side door of the car. The word 'WHORE' has been carved into the car's shiny black paint. Marisol glances at Evelyn, momentarily concerned until her eyes also land on the car. She gasps then moves closer, examining the door.
"Who the hell did that?" Evelyn demands, her hands resting on her hips. Marisol groans and shakes her head. "You don't think Peter did it, do you?" Evelyn sounds aghast. She much prefers Marisol with Jesse than Peter, but she doesn't see Peter as the type to be so childish.
"I honestly don't know," Marisol sighs heavily, leaning back against the car. Whether it is the alcohol or simply the emotional exhaustion she is experiencing, she just can't muster the anger.
"What are you going to do?" Evelyn asks, confused by Marisol's reaction. She adores this car, and even if it was some old clunker, it is despicable that someone would do this.
"I just want to go home. I'll deal with it later."
Marisol walks around to the passenger side door, opens it and slides in. Evelyn stands there with narrowed eyes, taken aback by the lack of fight in Marisol. She must really be depressed. Deciding it is best to do as asked, Evelyn gets into the car and heads for Marisol's house. She will call a body repair shop later.
It was harder than Adrian thought it would be to let Evelyn leave, but Doctor Greely assured them she was more than recovered enough to return to work if she didn't overdo it. Still, he has spent most of his day worrying about her and the baby, fighting the urge to call and check up on her. He has finally left the house, finding his way to the restaurant Zoila and he have turned into their meeting spot. He smiles at the thought of the conversations they have had at this bar, taken aback when he sees her sitting at the bar. He looks again to make sure he isn't seeing things then makes his way to her.
Zoila absolutely despises her boss. The woman is only happy when she is making other people, or at least Zoila, miserable. The tension has been building between the two, and this morning the pent-up rage climaxed into a rather nasty showdown. Zoila exited the house, then drove around for a while before finding herself here. She isn't sure why, but this place brings her a sense of comfort. She is so preoccupied with her thoughts, she doesn't pay attention to the person that takes a seat beside her at the bar.
"Penny for your thoughts?" Adrian asks, smirking when Zoila startles.
The two sit at the bar for a while in a comfortable silence, enjoying their drinks. Zoila offers a bit of information but doesn't want to rehash it all. Adrian nods, understanding. She asks him what is troubling him, and he tells her, laughing at his self for being such a 'helicopter husband'. She also laughs, hearing Adrian Powell say something like that is oddly amusing.
They make their way back to the mansion as the happy hour crowd begins pouring in, neither feel much like being surrounded by a group of people. They sit in the study sipping bourbon, Adrian lamenting over the stalled police investigation. Zoila nods, but she has a distant look on her face. She has had it most of the afternoon. Adrian doesn't want to pry, but there is something bothering his friend.
"What's troubling you?" he finally asks.
"I already told you," Zoila huffs, rolling her eyes at him. She looks into her bourbon, suddenly finding the liquid of great interest.
"There's something else," Adrian says softly, his gaze never leaving her.
Slowly, Zoila looks up at him. There are tears shining in her eyes as her bottom lip begins to quiver. Without thinking, he reaches for her but she pushes him away.
"I need to go!" She insists, quickly to her feet.
"Zoila!" Adrian calls after her, abandoning his spot. He reaches out for her again, this time wrapping his fingers around her arm. She looks back at him, tears slipping down her cheeks. "What is it?" He asks, worry etched on his face. He doesn't like seeing her like this.
Zoila sighs heavily. She drops her head, not wanting to do this, especially in front of Adrian. The pain she is feeling is something she needs to handle on her own, not drag him into. The thought is eradicated from her mind when he pulls her into a hug. It isn't a hug with an ulterior motive but a hug to comfort her. She finds herself wrapping her arms around him, sobs wracking her body.
"I'm sorry," she chokes, embarrassed by this display.
"Don't be," Adrian shushes, caressing her back. He has never seen her so upset. "Tell me what's wrong."
Zoila takes a shaky breath as she shakes her head. She isn't going to do this. She refuses to discuss this with him. It doesn't feel right discussing this with him, a man who lost a six-year-old child and just a week ago, feared he was losing his unborn child. He asks her again, urging her with his eyes to tell him.
"My baby would've turned one today," she sobs, the pain unbearable. Adrian pulls her closer, placing a kiss against her hair. He offers her words of comfort but knows very well nothing and no one can take away the hurt she feels. The only thing he can do for her, the thing he didn't do for his wife when they lost Barrett, is be there for her.
Evelyn and James enter the mansion, laughing as James imitates the waiter. When he picked her up at Marisol's, he insisted on taking her to dinner to celebrate her first day back at work. She found it sweet, but the staff and the service were lacking greatly. Luckily, James has managed to keep her entertained with his on-point depictions of the inept staff.
While James carries a take-out tray to the kitchen, Evelyn steps closer to the study. She can hear Adrian whispering. Wondering just what he is up to, she glances around the corner. Her heart drops when she sees Adrian wrapped in Zoila's arms, his lips against her hair. Zoila says something to Adrian then presses a kiss to his cheek. Evelyn doesn't know why it surprises her, after all Adrian always has had a thing for the help, but it stings to see this intimate moment between the two.
"You ok?" James asks as he walks across the foyer.
"Never better," she turns, forcing a smile. She closes the distance between them, grabs him by the collar when she reaches him, and pulls him into a searing kiss. Her hands drop from his collar and begin fumbling with his buttons. Adrian and she are divorcing. He can have Zoila and she has James. She plans on showing James just how much he means to her.
Dear Father in Heaven, I beg for your guidance. Once again, our sanctuary has been tainted by the harlot's presence. Why dear God has the Reverend not cast her aside like the garbage she is? Surely, he realizes once their child is born she will be of no further use to him. The harlot no longer even tries to conceal the proof of their adulterous ways. Nearly everyone spoke of it tonight, but we will not say anything until the Reverend announces the joyous news. The harlot must be removed from the Reverend's life once the child is born. Please Dear God, show me how to do this. Such an unworthy woman doesn't deserve the attention lavished upon her by the Reverend. Please, Dear Lord, show me what to do.
The blood test performed at ten weeks along to detect any abnormalities or irregularities with the fetus, also determined the gender. At that time, the news of the pregnancy was still such a shock, coupled with the fear of losing the child, Evelyn chose not to find out the gender. It is something she has spent a great deal of time mulling over these past few weeks, this scare forcing her to realize that no matter the outcome, she wants to know if she is carrying a boy or a girl. The ultrasound they are awaiting will provide her the opportunity to ask.
"What are you thinking about?" Adrian asks, noticing the smile tugging at Evelyn's lips. She's been quiet and distant all morning, something he attributes to her nervousness about the ultrasound. No matter how many times they assured the baby is fine, there will always be some worry.
"The baby," she answers, caressing her stomach. "I'm going to ask the gender."
"I want to be surprised," Adrian says simply. He, too, has thought a lot about this. Initially he was a bit disappointed when she refused to find out the gender at ten weeks, but he hadn't pushed. Now, he is enjoying not knowing.
"Really?" Evelyn is surprised by this. With Barrett, he practically skipped into the office on the day they found out what they were having.
"The pregnancy was a surprise, why not the gender as well?" Adrian shrugs, offering her a crooked grin.
Evelyn considers his words. The pregnancy was certainly a surprise, but she isn't sure she wants to be 'surprised' in the delivery room. The more she thinks about it, the more she wants to know what they are having. Adrian, obviously, doesn't suffer from the same curiosity. She sighs, trying to figure a way out of their current dilemma. She remains unhappy, and a bit hurt, over walking in on Adrian and Zoila the day before, a completely irrational response she is blaming on hormones, but she is glad to see Adrian so happy. Just like she was, he was always the happiest when he was a father.
"Are you finally going to find out what you're having?" Doctor Greely interrupts Evelyn's thoughts as she enters the room pushing the ultrasound machine.
"About that," Evelyn purses her lips as she lies back on the bed. "I want to know, but Adrian doesn't." She looks hopefully at the doctor. Doctor Greely smiles, familiar with this conundrum.
"We can work around it," Doctor Greely assures her.
Evelyn nods, then watches as Doctor Greely prepares for the scan. It seems to Evelyn, she has spent most of her pregnancy undergoing one scan and test or another. She doesn't think the slight apprehension she experiences as the wand is placed to her stomach will ever go away. The apprehension dissolves when a grainy image fills the screen. Even though she just saw the baby on an ultrasound the day she was released from the hospital, Evelyn can't stop the gasp that escapes her lips. The forming human being is astonishing.
Adrian stands beside Evelyn, his eyes glued to the screen as well. Awestruck is the only way to describe him. He squeezes Evelyn's hand, marveling at the life they have created. They shared moments like this during her pregnancy with Barrett, and whether this was her second or fifth pregnancy, he doesn't doubt for a moment they would still be amazed. He presses a kiss to her temple, her only response a smile before she turns her attention back to the screen.
Doctor Greely takes measurements of the fetus, pleased everything is measuring as it should. She is also glad to see Evelyn is finally showing. The woman has insisted she's been showing for a while, but Doctor Greely is only now noticing it. Either way, the fetus is developing and healthy. Once the measurements are taken, the doctor asks Adrian to leave the room. He agrees, realizing how important it is for Evelyn to know the gender of their child.
That evening Evelyn is stretched out on the sofa dozing. She is tired and probably should go on up to bed, ut she is so comfortable. Adrian sits at the desk looking over a document, something she hopes pertains to the divorce, but highly doubts. Carmen is dusting books, the room encased in a comfortable silence. Carmen places the last of the books back on the shelf then walks over to the coffee table where a few books lie. Just as she picks up the books, she notices a picture on the table. The books are forgotten as she picks up the picture, studying the grainy image.
"That's the ultrasound picture," Adrian supplies proudly, keeping his voice low to not disturb Evelyn.
"It looks like an alien," Carmen says, making a face. She thought the same thing when she had been pregnant with Dani.
"Do not call my child an alien," Evelyn growls, her eyes remaining closed. Adrian startles at the sound of her voice; he thought she was asleep. Carmen narrows her eyes, knowing all along Evelyn was conscious.
"Looks like an alien to me," she replies, offering Evelyn a smirk when she opens her eyes.
"Would you like to change diapers for the first two years?" Evelyn challenges the maid, well aware of all the ways she can make Carmen's life miserable with an infant.
"I don't do diapers," Carmen says with a wave of her finger. She isn't a nanny; there's no way, and no amount of money, that will change her mind.
"Call my child an alien one more time, and not only will you change every single diaper, you will also be the night nurse." Evelyn smiles wickedly at the woman.
"Phone home, E.T., your Mom's lost her mind," Carmen says to Evelyn's stomach. For emphasis, she pokes the slight bump causing Evelyn to gasp as her eyes widen. Carmen is startled by the reaction, glancing back at Adrian who has dropped his head and is mumbling something under his breath.
"Did you just touch my stomach?" Evelyn gasps.
"I…" Carmen is at a loss for words.
"One does not touch Evelyn's stomach without risking great bodily harm," Adrian explains, his wife having struck him during both pregnancies when he has placed his hand on her stomach. This time she has only made contact with him twice.
"You won't even let your baby's father touch your stomach?" Carmen finds this hard to believe.
"Nope!" Adrian answers a bit too chipperly for Evelyn's liking, a scowl directed in his direction.
"It is still my body," she huffs, aware of the fact it might be a little odd this quirk of hers, but she does not like people placing their hands on her stomach.
"But the alien is taking up more room," Carmen points out, patting Evelyn's stomach. The reaction is frightening but also hilarious.
"Stop that!" Evelyn demands, swatting at Carmen's hand.
"Your clothes are tight." Carmen tugs slightly at the blouse that clings to Evelyn's stomach. Evelyn, less than amused, sits up, her eyes narrowing with anger.
"Evelyn, you don't want to give birth in prison," Adrian warns from the desk. If the maid is determined to piss off a tired, hormonal Evelyn, the least he can do is remind his wife that killing the maid will only result in her being sent to prison.
"Go find something to dust," Evelyn bites out, hands clenched tightly by her sides. Carmen humphs in response then picks up the duster as she heads for the door. She adds a little extra sashay to her walk but stops just steps from the doorway.
"You should name it E.T.!" Carmen smiles deviously.
"GO!" Evelyn practically shouts. This time Carmen quickly exits the study without a look back at her hostile, hormonal employer.
James tries not to interfere or over step his bounds when it comes to Evelyn's pregnancy. It isn't his child after all, but as time progresses and the swell of Evelyn's stomach becomes more noticeable, James can't help but become involved. Certainly, a baby was the last thing he thought of when they began this relationship, but it is an idea he has grown fond of. No, he isn't the father, a fact he is cognizant of, one Adrian gladly reminds him of daily, but as long as he is part of Evelyn's life he is determined to make her, as well as Adrian, aware that he does care about this child. He doesn't see it as an inconvenience or a nuisance but as the miracle he considers all children to be.
"Did you find out the gender?" James asks from the doorway of the study, laughing slightly when Evelyn startles. She can become so engrossed in whatever she's reading the rest of the world falls away.
"I did," she answers with a smile. She wants to share this news, tell someone the gender, but she is worried somehow Adrian will find out. He is so excited by the prospect of being surprised when the baby is born, she doesn't want to rob him of that.
"Well?" James asks, nearing the sofa. He is surprised she didn't call or text him with the news, but Adrian and she probably spent the afternoon discussing the baby, and more than likely, shopping for the baby. It should bother him, the thought of his girlfriend spending so much time with her soon-to-be ex-husband, but they aren't spending time together as a couple; they are spending time together as expectant parents.
Evelyn purses her lips, sorting through her options. It would be nice to say it out loud to another person, but again, she doesn't want to run the risk of ruining this surprise for Adrian.
"Are you not telling anyone until the gender reveal party?" he jokes, only half serious. Several of the church members have held gender reveal parties, something he doesn't really understand the point of when a simple verbal announcement would suffice, but everyone is different and chooses to share personal news in different ways.
"She might should host a pregnancy reveal party first," Adrian says as he walks into the room.
"Not this again," Evelyn groans. The last thing she feels like doing is arranging a party for a group of gossiping, back biting people who will smile and congratulate her to her face then turn around and eviscerate her at the club.
"Why don't you want to shout this joyous news from the rooftops?" Adrian asks for what is probably the hundredth time. In the early weeks, he understood her apprehension, the need for privacy and secrecy, but she is well into the sixteenth week of this pregnancy. No longer can she easily conceal her growing middle.
"Adrian," she sighs heavily as she stands from the sofa. She doesn't want to discuss this. She is trying to explain to James her current predicament, not verbalize the irrational discomfort she feels toward announcing her pregnancy.
"You haven't formally announced your pregnancy?" James is shocked by this. Even though there hasn't been a party, he assumed she had at the very least told close friends and acquaintances.
"No, she hasn't!" Adrian answers for her. The two men share a look, both finding this odd. Evelyn adores entertaining, throwing lavish parties is her forte. Before the men can question her, she provides a simple response.
"Anyone who looks at me can tell I'm pregnant. What's the point of a party now?" she shrugs, walking to the bar where she retrieves a glass. The two men exchange looks again as she pours herself a glass of water.
"They could just assume you've gained weight." Adrian smirks, the comment earning him a deathly glare from Evelyn and a look of disbelief from James.
"Then they're of lower intelligence than I presumed." She isn't rising to the bait. She doesn't really care if their 'friends' know or not.
"So, the three of us are the only ones, besides the doctor of course, that know you're pregnant?" James can't believe they haven't discussed this before. How, better yet why, is she keeping this pregnancy a secret?
"Genvieve does," Adrian supplies.
"As well as Marisol, our maid, Genvieve's former and current maids, as well as Gail Fleming." Evelyn rolls her eyes at the memory of the night most of them found out. She refuses to think about the events that transpired after that party.
"Gail knows?" Adrian asks just as James speaks.
"You told the maids but not your friends?"
Evelyn shakes her head at the two.
"The point is," she begins, reminding herself to keep her tongue in check, "the people that matter, know." Evelyn takes a sip of water, putting an end to the conversation.
"If Gail knows, then why doesn't the rest of Beverly hills?" Adrian finds it hard to believe Gail would keep this information to herself. She is a gossip that will take the tiniest bit of news and turn it into a full-blown scandal.
"Oh, she tried to announce my pregnancy," Evelyn smiles ruefully, remembering the foiled attempt. James and Adrian share bemused glances. Evelyn rolls her eyes at their ignorance. "At the hospital gala," she elaborates.
"That's why Carmen 'accidentally' spilled the drinks!" Adrian exclaims with air quotes. He thought that was awfully clumsy of her that night.
"How'd she find out? Certainly, you didn't tell her!" James has only met Gail a couple of times, but she definitely isn't the type of person he could see Evelyn confiding in.
"She overheard Genvieve and I in the bathroom." Evelyn is growing tired of this conversation.
Adrian rolls his eyes. Of course, Gail found out in such a manner. The woman scavenges for gossip like vultures do for fresh road kill.
"Why did you tell Genevieve?" James' question earns him a withering glare.
"She's the one suggested Evelyn might be pregnant," Adrian supplies, aware of Evelyn's growing disinterest. James shakes his head. Dating a Powell is certainly interesting.
"As intriguing as all that is, I'm still curious; are you having a boy or a girl?" They may have gotten off topic, but he hasn't forgotten his initial question.
Evelyn brightens at the question, glad to discuss something other than when and how she plans to announce her pregnancy or why certain people are already aware of it. At James's question, Adrian sends her a glance.
"Oh, um..." Evelyn stammers, unsure of how to respond. She glances at Adrian, his only response a shrug. James notices the silent conversation the two are having, lifting his brow in question.
"Is everything ok?" he asks carefully, considering for the first time that something may be wrong. The two do not appear upset, but something is going on.
"Yes, the baby's fine." Evelyn assures him, touched by the concern.
"As is Evelyn," Adrian adds, suspecting like him, James is concerned about her health as well. James appears to relax even if Evelyn does frown at the two and their mutual concern.
"Adrian has decided he wants to wait to find out what we're having until the baby is born." She pauses, again pursing her lips.
"You can tell him if you'd like. I need to make a phone call anyway."
Adrian's offer surprises them both. He continues to remind James every chance he gets that he is the father, but since the night they thought they were losing the baby, he has toned down his hostility towards James. He still doesn't like the relationship, but he is willing to be civil to ensure a calmer Evelyn and a healthy baby.
Evelyn only nods as she watches him leave the room. Once they are alone she turns to James. He has a knowing look on his face as he stares at her.
"You're gonna keep the news to yourself." It isn't a question. She begins to explain but he stops her. "I get it."
He does understand. Adrian and she might be separated, but this is their child. It is a good sign they are taking the other's feelings into consideration where the child is concerned. Whether married, divorced, or separated, they have at least eighteen years of dealing with each other ahead of them.
"You are a wonderful man," Evelyn says as she walks over to him and wraps her arms around him. She presses a kiss against his lips, grateful for such a kind, considerate man who supports her in the odd situation they find themselves in.