How I Been

Part 3.3

A/N: As always, comment please!
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Omniscient p.o.v

September 7th, 2019

Jamal awoke later than usual, his back sore from a restless night. He had missed Hector's morning calls, but a sweet voicemail reassured him.

Frustration and tears lingered, emotions Jamal couldn't entirely control. Gathering himself, he forced a smile and headed to the bathroom.

Staring at his growing stomach, Jamal decided today was the day to confirm his suspicions. After a quick shower, he dressed, realizing it was around 1:15 PM. He had 45 minutes until he could speak to Hector.

Deciding to grab a pregnancy test, Jamal dialed Nita's number, who picked up on the first ring. "Hey, love," Nita's cheerful voice greeted him.

"Hey, Nita," Jamal replied, throwing on a sweater and sweats. "Would you mind coming over soon? I have to show you something."

"Of course, baby. I'm out by the mall downtown. I should be by you in about 20. I hope everything is okay," Nita reassured.

Jamal assured Nita that everything was fine, and they shared their goodbyes.

Grabbing his phone and house keys, Jamal hurried out, hoping to avoid his persistent admirer. In the elevator, to his dismay, he found Ignacio, the tall man who persistently pursued him.

"Oh, what a surprise. Hello, beautiful," Ignacio greeted, eyeing Jamal. Despite finding the shorter man attractive, Jamal felt uncomfortable, especially since he despised being called beautiful by anyone other than Hector.

"Hello, Mr. Ignacio, please do not call me that. Once again, I have a boyfriend," Jamal firmly stated, retreating into the elevator's corner.

"I know that's not true. You'll come around," Ignacio said, flashing his charming smile, the same one he used in business and love.

To Jamal's relief, the elevator reached Ignacio's floor, and the man exited with his persistent smile. Jamal sighed, realizing he might have pressed the wrong button. As he reached the lobby, he made his way to the pharmacy a few buildings down.

Entering the pharmacy, Jamal exchanged a warm smile with the cashier before navigating the aisles.

He found a row of pregnancy tests, choosing six different ones and using Nita's card, which Hector insisted on. Although he had the card since leaving Iron Point, it was his first time using it.

Returning to his apartment without any unwanted encounters, Jamal read the instructions on all six tests. Laying them out on tissue paper, he set the alarm and sat on the toilet, knowing he needed confirmation of his pregnancy.

Already sensing it within himself, Jamal sought proof for Hector's parole, following the warden's advice. The warden had been supportive, checking in through emails, and Jamal appreciated it.

Around 2:10 PM, Jamal FaceTimed Hector, showing his face with a smile. "Hey, baby," he greeted, lifting his phone slightly.

"Hello, beautiful. How are you? Missed you this morning," Hector said, the call quality working for the couple.

"Yes, I'm sorry, baby, I overslept badly. Thank you for the message, though. I love you too, so much," Jamal apologized, smiling.

"You're welcome, anything for you," Hector replied. "What's new?" he asked.

"Mm, what's new with you?" Jamal countered.

"Nothing. I miss you," Hector admitted, looking down and sounding defeated.