A Beautiful Instrument

49: Such a Different Air

I am staring at Alexis, awaiting her move. I'm ready to take the hit and lie, telling him it's mine if that's what she needs. Jeremy must sense the lie brewing because he slips his arm around my waist, his hand settling near my belly should I need him to play up the good news.

But Alexis comes through. "It's mine, Manny. I wanted to confirm with a doctor and make sure everything was okay, but I took two tests. I'm pregnant."

We continue holding our breath, all of us as we wait for Manny's reaction. It doesn't take long for a goofy smile to spread across his face, but then a grimace as his features are overcome with emotion. "I'm going to be a Daddy? Oh, Alexis!"

He drops the test in the trash and launches himself at her, practically sweeping her off her feet as he plants kiss after kiss all over her face. I cover my own mouth as the tears come, my heart swelling with confirmation that they are indeed going to be alright meeting this life-changing event together.

Jeremy tugs on me gently and guides me out of the apartment. He wraps his arms tightly around me. "I want to give them a bit of privacy. I told you he would be happy. Nothing to worry about."

I tilt my head back to look at him. "I love you, you know that?"

"I do, but I definitely don't mind you telling me again and again." He admits.

Alexis and Manny come out. They are wrapped in each other's arms and look so happy and in love.

"Congratulations!" I rush them. We all start offering hugs and talking at once. We all have a good laugh about Jeremy's confusion in thinking I was the one who was pregnant.

Manny quips. "I don't doubt you two are very far behind us."

Alexis jumps aboard. "Wouldn't it be amazing for our kids to grow up together?"

"Whoa guys! Slow down. I'm excited for you, but we're still some years away from that reality, right Jeremy?" I turn to him for back-up.

Manny comments. "Yeah, I thought so too. You know what they say about the best laid plans."

Jeremy is quiet this whole time, but his eyes twinkle and I can tell he's happy for our friends.

As we are leaving Alexis and Manny's place after finishing up the moving tasks, Alexis is a complete mess. "Thank you so much for everything today. I am going to miss you so much."

I remind her. "I'm still going to the clinic with you on Monday and we have dress rehearsals on Wednesday. We're going to see each other more this week than we have in the past several weeks."

"I know, but it's different now." Alexis whimpers.

Manny questions. "Is this pregnancy- related? Is this going to get better?"

Alexis and I both shoot Manny a look. Jeremy says quietly. "I wouldn't make comments like that if you know what's good for you, Manny."

I smooth Alexis's hair and give her forehead a kiss. "If you need me, call me. Same as before. I love you, Lexi girl."

"I love you too, Leigh. Jeremy, you better take care of her." She warns.

"As long as you take care of him." He nods to Manny. We all hug and Jeremy ushers me out of there before the waterworks start again.

"I wasn't going to be the one to say it, but that was totally amplified by the hormones, I think." I comment once we're in the clear.

"It makes me a little relieved you're not the one who's pregnant now." Jeremy jokes.

I scoff. "Take that back. I'm going to be a delightful pregnant lady."

Jeremy pats my head. "Of course you are, dear."