Mark's POV
"Hey Mark," Joanne said, her voice mixed with concern, curiosity, and annoyance, "why did you gather us all here at the Life Cafe today? I had to call in sick after lunch break, and I'm working on a really important case."
"It's okay, Joanne," Maureen reassured her. "She's just really worried because the opposing side—wait, can I use that in 'law-y talk'? Never mind. Anyways, the bad guys are winning, and according to Joanne, they shouldn't be. It's a 'serious miscarriage of justice.' Plus, she's been incredibly busy due to the shortage of lawyers helping at legal aid."
"And you're lucky I don't have any classes today," Mimi chimed in. She had recently gone back to school and was currently enrolled at a nearby community college.
"Well, remember when you and Roger saw this girl about a month ago?" I began, mentally preparing myself for their reactions, I started thinking of ways to break this gently, I thought of none, I simply said, "Well, I have actually been dating her-"
"Seriously? That must be some serious brain damage," Roger laughed, eliciting a glare from Mimi. He quickly stopped, not wanting Mimi to register any physical damage to him.
"I'm serious," I replied "And she's pregnant. Yes, it's mine. She wants to meet all of you." As soon as the sentence left my lips, Roger started rolling on the floor with laughter, and Collins had started laughing and trying unsuccessfully to hide it from Angel.
"That's wonderful, Mark," Angel said genuinely, offering her support. Joanne nodded in agreement, while Maureen simply looked shocked.
"So when are we going to meet her?" Joanne asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Tomorrow," I replied
"TOMORROW?!" Maureen exclaimed, her mouth finally catching up to her brain, "Tell us about her!" she shrieked, unable to contain her excitement.
"Is she even real?" Roger interjected, causing Collins to snicker
"Her name is Rose, and you'll see her tomorrow. The Life at 8:30 PM." I sighed, 'This better go well,' I thought, hoping that Maureen wouldn't scare away the Rose.