Shards Of Pain

No Turning Back

A buzz of excitement permeated the limo as the teens waited for the vehicle to pull up to the location of the prom.

OK, guys, before we go in. Chloe leapt out of the limo first. "I want you to wear these."

Everyone was given a pair of blindfolds, which she pulled out of her purse.

Chlo, I can't wear this. Charlotte scoffed. "I'm pregnant, what if I trip and fall?"

It won't be a problem. I'll hold your hand through it all. As Chloe walked over to Charlotte, she put her arms around her while their friend's put their glasses on, looking like they needed dogs to see.

Few moments later...

When will we be able to remove these? He asked, getting irritated after hitting what seemed to be his fourth table.

All right, now. Chloe exclaimed excitedly.

When the five friends arrived at the gym, they removed the blindfolds that had been covering their eyes and were astounded by what they saw. The gym was decked out in everything like a casino. There were poker tables, card dealers, and blackjack tables to choose from.

Damn, Chlo. Henry remarked. "I assume the prom committee decided it was a good idea to put you on as president."

Thank you...? Chloe replied with a conflicted tone.

I think what means is that the theme is fantastic. Charlotte swiftly clarified. "How did you manage to pull this off?"

Oh, I just pull a few strings with the wife. Chloe quickly closed her eyes, recalling what she needed to do for the lady. "Which reminds me that I need to get car wash equipment, since for the next month, I'm going to be washing both his and her car every Friday."

So, what are we waiting for here? Justin spoke up. "With the exception of you, Charlotte, let's party like there's no tomorrow."

Thank you. Charlotte responded, still irritated at having to be instructed to keep her feet off the ground.

She sat down on the nearest chair, resting her palm on her baby belly; she hadn't informed anyone all day, but she had been feeling strange. She'd been feeling contractions but chalked them up to the baby preparing for position; it didn't bother her because she'd read online that it was usual.

She didn't want to give her friends an excuse not to enjoy their prom, especially because they had been there for her throughout her pregnancy. She wanted them to have a night, or maybe a week, where she didn't require them to be at her beck and call. She merely reasoned that because the contractions were so far apart, it wasn't really worth mentioning.

Do you care for a dance? Standing up and extending his hand, Henry made his offer.

Sure, sur-- Charlotte answered with laughter, but she came to a halt as she felt a wet drop of liquid land on her feet. It felt as you'd feel if you jumped into the ocean feet first.

What's the matter, Char? Henry inquired, concerned.

My water may have just broken.... Charlotte spoke softly.

You are having the baby?! Henry said, quickly putting two and two together.

Uh, huh. She said.

Shit! Henry swore.

What? Charlotte inquired, cautiously resuming her seated position.

How are we going to get the hospital? Henry remarked, realizing that they had not taken their car.

We can take the limo. Charlotte reminded him.

No, we can't. Henry responded. "Chloe paid the guy who drove us here, and I noticed him heading to the bar across the street before the blindfolds. I don't want to be driven to the hospital by a drunk chauffeur."