S2 E1 - News

Part 4 of 7

Paul is seriously worried! The man hasn't answered, at least not verbally, but every aspect, every move, every look rings loud and clear. This IS the father and he's in a panic! Funny, Paul thinks as he watches Richard begin to sweat, I would never guess him such a coward. His private disappointment shatters when Richard plunges his face into his hands and begins to cry!

Paul is across the room in a flash, kneeling at Richard's side, "There, there, my good man! The situation isn't as desperate as all that! Other couples go through this all the time. We have many avenues to explore. Please don't fret so." He pats Richard's back yet senses Richard hasn't heard a single word.

Richard takes out his handkerchief. Paul smiles to see it. After wiping his eyes, Richard slumps back, "I can't be a father! I CAN'T! Fathers are sure and strong and never make mistakes! They know what to say and do and can handle anything! How am I to manage that? I can't. I simply can't!" He folds the handkerchief and straightens up, "It's not just the baby. It's Camille too! How can I live up to her expectations? I'm not capable, I know it!" He slumps, "It's hopeless."

Paul sits in the chair beside him, "I'm guessing you rushed in without discussing the situation?"

Richard gulps and nods, "Perhaps I acted precipitously… but I was so worried! I couldn't think what else to do… no one else I could trust with such a life-altering event."

Paul smiles with pride, "Well, calm yourself. I'll examine her and set her mind at ease. I'm sure she's worried about you too."

Richard starts in alarm, "NO! No, don't tell her what I said. She needs support and trust, not worries about me running off. Just come back and tell me all is well with her and…" his eyes soften, "… and our child... MY child..."

Paul stands and goes to the door, "I will, stay here, try to relax, this is only the first of many scares over the next few months. Then there's the birth itself." As he slips out into the hall, Paul wonders if maybe that last comment was a quip too far. The man suddenly looked ready to pass out. He shrugs, Fathers! Women do all the hard work yet fathers do all the fainting.

He's chuckling as he goes in to see Camille. The laugh dies on his lips.

END – part 4