The New Ship
Chapter 20
Two weeks later, Grace had her last appointment in Odessa, Texas, before going back to Washington. She would be talking with some oil field workers, who were nervous about a trend towards clean energy. Because the oil field workers were rough, Mike was along. They walked into the meeting room and Mike put his hand on the small of her back.
"Where do you need me?" Mike asked.
"When they call me up; side of the stage." Grace answered. Mike gave her an encouraging nod just as her name was called. Grace walked onto the stage and looked out on the crowd. A very rough crowd. Grace would take military types any day over oil field workers and cowboys.
"So, from the time your bosses told you, that I would be here; y'all had opinions made. But, my dad, two uncles, most of my male cousins, and both grandfathers worked the oil field. I could have brought my dad today and he would have fit right in.
I understand that you all are concerned about this green energy stuff. I do think it has its merits, but I also will always, always support jobs being kept here, more so than green energy. The oil fields have supported families for years. I see no reason for that to stop. As long as I stay in any political office and can do anything about it; you'll have jobs. That is a promise. Now; that is all I'm gonna say. Maybe you'll get a longer lunch break." Grace said.
Grace was slightly surprised by the applause. She would have preferred to go on home; but she and Mike stayed and shook hands and talked to the oil field workers and their families. Mike actually handled it extremely well. He did get teased about being from Chicago but did well even with that.
It was a good day. Grace was still unsure if she was going to continue her political career, but Mike had made clear he could handle helping her. People liked him. They didn't get back home until evening and Grace was exhausted. Fortunately, her mom and dad had dinner ready.
That night; Mike climbed in next to her and pulled her onto his chest. Even though it was August; Grace felt cold. She kind of felt out of sorts and unusually tired, which would not work since they had to leave for Washington in a few days.
"You did really well today." Grace remarked.
"I was just thinking about how good you did." Mike replied.
"Mike…I think I'm pregnant." Grace remarked.
"Think or know?" Mike asked.
"Right now; just think. I haven't taken the tests yet or been to a doctor." Grace said.
"You have seemed tired." Mike said.
"Are you unhappy?" Grace asked as she raised up.
"Not unhappy. Slightly scared. We had talked about a baby, but it still scares me to love like that again. It took me alot of giving in to just love you and the kids." Mike admitted.
"I'm sorry, Mike. I thought you would be more excited." Grace said.
"Hey…I'm not mad. Especially not at you or this baby. I remember when Christine told me she was pregnant with Lucas. I was overwhelmed. Money was tight, the war was on and he was definitely a shore baby. The entire pregnancy…I was not thrilled, but when I held Lucas the first time; none of that stuff mattered. Of course, now; I wish I had been around more but Lucas was very well loved and now, is very missed." Mike explained.
"Because he was a boy?" Grace asked.
"I loved and miss my girls just as much." Mike answered.
"I want you to enjoy this pregnancy." Grace remarked.
"And I will. No matter what, there will always be fear where I am concerned. And I feel it with you, Eli and Liv." Mike said. He kissed Grace's forehead.
"I'll see if I can get into a doctor tomorrow just to make sure." Grace remarked.
"I love you, and if you are pregnant; I will love this baby." Mike said.
"Boy or girl?" Grace asked.
"Both." Mike said. Grace wondered if he realized that his hand was on her lower abdomen. Almost like he was already feeling for the baby.
"Twins?" Grace asked.
"Twins or one at a time." Mike answered. Grace laughed in response. She leaned up and gave him a long kiss.
"Lets just make sure before we make any big plans. I love you too." Grace said. She settled into Mike's arms and smiled because it was one of her absolute favorite things. Only thing better was the kids hugging her.