The Don's Wife

60 | Positive News

"Congratulations on your pregnancy." Said the doctor happily as she held out the blood test result to the couple sitting in front of her.

Seeing her husband's unresponsiveness, Rosalind took the initiative to take the result off the doctor's hand.

"Thank you, doctor."
Rosalind replied cordially.

Initially, the doctor wanted to share some words of encouragement for their pregnancy (merely for consideration's sake), but noticing the silence along with the rigid countenance on the husband's end, she knew better than to offer such regard.

Little did the doctor know, it wasn't discontent nor any other kind of pessimistic impression she thought it was that reposed within James' silence. Not at all.

Same as Rosalind, he had expected such instance to happen. With the way he's managing their 'bedroom activities', night in, night out, reckless, and unprotected,– a baby is bound to be made at some point or another. If not today then tomorrow, if not tomorrow then overmorrow, and so on.

He's aware. He has no qualms. For his wife to bear an heir to the Salvatore family, it's part of marital life. What he didn't expect, is the rush of emotions that ambushed him when it truly happened. So much so that it rendered him inoperable.

"Counting from the first day of your last period, you're approximately four weeks in." The doctor further explained.

"When should we make our visit again?"
Rosalind inquired.

"In seven week's time you'll be ready to take the first trimester screening."

The unsettling silence between the couple followed even after having exited the doctor's office. While James was in the process of letting reality sink in, Rosalind observed him meticulously from behind.

Standing stock-still, shoulders tense, eyes staring blankly into the distance, was the least anticipated reaction she received from him. Last night was no different. Upon breaking the news, he only questioned a couple of things necessary, said that they are to see a doctor first thing in the morning, then called it a night just like that.

And even though she lay in his embrace that night,– even though his eyes were seemingly closed, Rosalind knew James had trouble sleeping. The fact that he had not once shifted in bed, nor snuggled in closer towards her,– that she didn't feel the slight squeeze of his arms tightening around her, as if he was being careful so as not to disturb her, were sufficient proof that her husband was verily awake.

'From excitement, perchance?'
Rosalind thought to herself then.
Yet now, she doubt it is likely so.

'Isn't this supposed to be a joyous occasion?'
'Or is it not?'
Rosalind began to fret.

'Perhaps he does not want this child after all..'

The notion itself sank her heart, churned her stomach. Once more her bad habit resurfaced to poison her mind. Almost,– were it not for James' ardent profession that rung clear and true yesterday, his honeyed words that she dearly adheres to, she wouldn't have gained the little boost of confidence she needed to confront him.

But before she could, James pulled out his phone to make a call.

"What's up?" Within seconds Micah picked up. And the instant he did, James hurled out a number of tasks at him, sounding direly serious as if it was one vital mission.

"Empty our schedule for the night. Cancel every plan, every appointment, dealings, everything. Close Euphoria for a private event, round up all the men we have there at eight. I want all the booze, all the food, free-flowing, all of it. Bring in the girls if you have to– We're holding a celebration."