The Course of True Love Never Did Run Smooth, chapter 3
*The Next Morning*
*Sadie's POV*
I woke up at quarter to ten, feeling a wave of nausea come over me.
Morning sickness...
I grabbed my bathrobe off the floor, slipped it on, and rushed to the bathroom down the hall so I could puke my guts out.
Lovely...
I must have woken up Joe, because he got up, slipped on some boxers and met me in the washroom. He got down on his knees and rubbed my back. I seriously was feeling shitty right now. I hope this goes away.
"You okay dear?" Joe asked me as I flushed the toilet and got up.
"Yeah. I'm fine. I'm just a little nauseous. It'll pass though. I have lunch with Ben today, and our parents are coming over for dinner." I said, grabbing my toothbrush and toothpaste. I put some of the thick substance on my toothbrush and ran it under cold water for a second, before sticking it in my mouth and scrubbing away the gross taste.
"So what time are you seeing Ben?" Joe asked me, snaking his arms around my waist.
It was weird, Joe's feelings about Ben. He didn't really like him all that much, but he didn't... not like him. I don't know. It's different. I've always had a little hunch that he doesn't trust me all that much while I'm alone with Ben. But, it's a gut instinct and not a fact. Thus, I shouldn't jump to conclusions.
"Around noon. We're going to Ichiro for some sushi." I mumbled with my toothbrush still in my mouth.
"Cool. Isn't that your dad's favourite?" Joe asked, leaning his head on my shoulder.
"Yup."
I spat my toothpaste into the sink and washed it down. I was still feeling pretty ill but I wasn't gonna vomit again.
I got up, gave Joe a peck on the cheek, and called dibs on the upstairs shower.
"I get the upstairs shower this time." I said tiredly, but smiling.
"Fine... But you have to cook breakfast."
"Sure, I don't mind." I said, walking to the bathroom where my shower awaited. I loved showers in the morning. They woke me up.
I closed the door behind me and started my shower. I was feeling kind of nervous. I was probably gonna tell him today.
But honestly, I felt like I really had to talk to someone. Which is why I was happy to be going for lunch with Ben. He was usually a pretty understanding guy.
I just had a quick shower today. I didn't need to wash my hair because I had done that the night before. So I just rinsed off and got out. I blow-dried my hair, put my robe back on and walked down the many flights of stairs. When I got to the kitchen Joe wasn't there yet, so I decided to start cooking breakfast.
I grabbed a pack of back bacon and cut it into thin slices. I plopped them into the frying pan, and grabbed two cranberry muffins. I placed them onto two small plates and put them down on the table. I grabbed a jug of orange juice and poured myself some. Joe preferred coffee in the morning, which is dumb. I'm not actually all that fond of coffee. Sometimes I'll have some, but tea is better.
The second I turned the stove off and placed the bacon onto a plate, Joe walked into the kitchen wearing his Joey Ramone style jeans. The ones that get narrower at the ankle. He hadn't put a shirt on yet.
"Well well, I came down just at the right time." Joe said, sitting down in the booth.
"Yeah, well you're making breakfast tomorrow." I laughed, sitting down with him. My nose was kind of plugged up so I decided to grab a Kleenex and blow.
I tossed the Kleenex in the trash, but suddenly the wafting smell of the bacon made its way to my nose.
And it made me nauseous.
Yeah, I had heard about this. When you're pregnant sometimes certain smells from foods makes you terribly nauseous.
I sat down, not breathing through my nose, and ate my muffin.
"Aren't you having any bacon?" Joe asked me, placing his fork back on his plate.
"Uh, no. I just realized I'm not that hungry." I lied. I was actually starved. Oh well. I'll just eat more at lunch.
"Alright. I probably won't finish all of this so I'll put it back in the fridge." Joe said, biting a chunk off his muffin.
We finished our breakfast, and Joe offered to put the dishes away. As he was doing that, I went upstairs to get dressed.
*Joe's POV*
I offered to do the dishes for Sadie, since she made me such a nice breakfast. I wonder why she didn't eat much. She's usually starving in the morning. Plus, she loved back bacon. Whatever. Maybe she's eating small amounts because she doesn't want to throw them up again. Yeah, that's probably why.
I scratched my bare chest while flipping through the channels on the television. I ended up stopping on a music channel so I could get a good idea of what the music of today was like. I needed a little more good material for my article, then I'll be done.
A band called 'Blizzard Starfish' had a video that was playing on MTV. Man, all the good band names must be taken.
Another thing I noticed, this wasn't completely like the rock I knew and loved. This was like... techno rock. Oh well. You can't expect everything to go your way.
*Sadie's POV*
I looked around in my closet for something to wear. I always wanted to look good in my terms, whenever I went out. I was bound to be found by photographers, and posted in the latest tabloid.
I grabbed a knee length, orange Thai skirt that I had purchased just recently, and a white blouse with a wide collar. I figured I'd wear my knee-high leather boots today to add a little edge to my clothing. I was actually looking surprisingly normal today. Well, in my terms. I decided to add a big brown belt I had designed myself, just for good measure. I buckled it around my waist, and walked towards the bathroom where I did my makeup, and put my long blue hair into a messy bun.
I looked at the clock. It was 11:30 already. Hey, it usually took me a long time to do my makeup.
I walked down the stairs, trying to stay balanced, what with my big boots and all. Once I got to the main floor I looked for my round, John Lennon inspired glasses.
As it turns out, Joe had borrowed them and placed them into his murse after wearing them.
I grabbed them, and skittered over to one of the TV rooms, where I was sure to find Joe.
There he was, lying on the couch, drinking Steaz Raspberry Green Tea Soda. We both loved that stuff.
"Joe, I'm going out for lunch now. I'll see you soon."
"Okay. Love you." Joe said, waving lazily.
"Love you too."
I grabbed the keys to my Jaguar and went to the garage. I didn't want to take the MGA out today because I'm the only person in the bay area with that car. I'd get noticed quickly. There was even an article in Us Weekly about my and Joe's cars. Our MGA, our Jaguar convertible, The Mystery Machine van, and our Hybrid.
I opened the garage door and opened the door to my car. I grabbed my polka dot scarf and tied it around my head so my hair wouldn't get messed in the wind.
I stepped into my car and pulled out of the driveway. I closed the garage door with the remote and drove down the street. Ichiro was a ways away, so it would take me a while. I hope I don't arrive late.
The whole car ride there, my heart was pounding. I was definitely gonna ask Ben for some advice because I really needed to talk to someone, and I trust him fully.
You know, if Joe and I hadn't gotten together, Ben and I would probably have. Ben was a really good guy. But I love Joe, and I'm staying with him. Even though, at one point in time I definitely had some feelings for him. I don't think I do anymore.
I wonder what his reaction will be when I tell him I'm pregnant. He'll probably be really taken back. This whole thing was just so unexpected.
I turned my CD player on and popped in my Fiona Apple album. I turned it to my favourite track, Shadow Boxer, and drummed my fingers against the steering wheel. I liked jazz and stuff. I grew up listening to Louis Armstrong. I always knew I was quite cultured musically. I listened to everything.
I remember in middle school before I was in the orphanage, I was the only person in my class who knew who Grace Slick was. I mean, how could someone not know the biggest female singer in the 1970's? And also, nobody knew who Janis Joplin was. Or Hendrix, or Pete Townshend, or Simple Minds. I mean, Juh-heeze Louise.
Before I knew it, I was pulling into the lot of my Dad's favourite restaurant. I saw Ben's car in one of the parking spaces so I knew he had already arrived.
I turned the car off and went inside the restaurant. I went to the front desk because I had made reservations.
"Hi, uh, party for two under Captain Kirk?" I said to the man at the front desk. Captain Kirk was the name I used at restaurants or hotels so I wouldn't be recognized.
"Uh, yes. Your lunch guest has already arrived. Right this was... Captain." The man said, leading me towards a table in the back.
Ben stood up when he saw me and we gave each other a quick hug before sitting back down.
"Hey Sadie. How're you?"
"Uh, alright. Yourself?"
"Pretty good. I'm dating again." Ben said as a waiter came over and poured us some water.
Ben had just come out of a terrible relationship with this girl Chelsea. She bossed him around all the time and stuff. Ben was kind of a push over sometimes.
"Oh that's good."
The waiter cleared his throat, and then spoke.
"Sorry to interrupt but, our specials today are crab California rolls for $22.00, and the caviar rolls with basil leaves for $25.00. Our soup of the day is Wonton Pho, and our drink specials are the Long Island Ice Tea and Strawberry Daiquiri, for $4.25. Can I start you off with some drinks?"
"Uh, yes I'll have a glass of cranberry juice." I said.
"Uh, I'll have the same." Ben added.
"Alright. I'll be back in a minute to take your orders." The waiter said. He sauntered away with a slight bounce in his step.
"I think I'll just have a bowl of the Wonton Pho. Do you know what you're getting?" I asked Ben.
"Uh, I'll have those California rolls. So, tell me. What have you been up to?"
Ben took his glasses of for a second to clean them on his shirt. I answered when I put them back on.
"Well, I went to Bree's wedding yesterday. That was cool. I had fun."
"Oh yeah. That must have been fun. So, how's Joe doing?"
"He's great. He's been working on a new article. From what he's told me about it, it sounds pretty good. He never lets me read his articles before they're in the paper for some reason, but I don't mind." I laughed.
"Really? That's weird. Well, Joe's a cool guy."
"Indeed he is." I said.
Well, I may as well start to explain to him my whole dilemma. Well, not exactly a dilemma, but you know what I mean. I just don't want it to sound like I'm totally disappointed about this baby, because I'm excited. I'm just so nervous that's all...
"Uh Ben, I kind of want to talk to you about something. I need some advice from you. You're a smart guy. I trust ya." I said, twirling a strand of blue hair and looking out the window.
Ben looked at me oddly and replied.
"Okay... Uh, what's bugging you?" He said, looking rather concerned.
Right when I was about to answer, the waiter came back with our drinks.
"Here you go. Now may I take your order?" He said, pulling out a notepad.
"Uh, yes. I'll have a bowl of the Wonton Pho, and he'll have the California rolls." I said quickly. I just wanted to tell Ben right away. I needed to tell someone sooo badly.
"Alright." The waiter said.
He walked away, and I turned back to Ben, who immediately knew something was wrong.
"Sadie, are you okay?" Ben asked, sipping his juice.
"Uh... not exactly. Well I am but... I don't know." I said, my eyes almost brimming with tears.
"Oh shit. Sadie please don't cry. Did something happen between you and Joe?"
I shook my head no, and then I just let it out. I was finally gonna tell someone.
"Ben... I'm pregnant. And I'm afraid to tell Joe because I don't know what his reaction will be because I know how happy he is with things right now. I just really needed to tell someone before I told him. Just to calm me down a bit I guess."
Ben jaw dropped. His eyes were wide, and his opened mouth curled up into an excited smile.
"Sadie that's awesome! Are you serious? I mean... this is... incredible! Sadie you're gonna be a mom! Why do you think Joe will react badly? I mean, I'm sure he'd be really happy!"
I looked up at him and smiled. That's exactly what I wanted to hear. I was going to reply but Ben started to ramble. He did that a lot when he was really excited.
"Sadie, he would love nothing more than to be a Dad I'm sure! And you're really responsible! Way more responsible than I am. Oh my God I can't even believe this. You have to name it something really really cool! And-"
"Ben calm down." I said smiling. I hope Joe reacts half as well as Ben is reacting.
"Oh, sorry. But, you should be totally pumped! I mean, you shouldn't be nervous. Sure, it'll be a challenge, but it'll be totally worth it. Challenges are good."
I am so glad I decided to have this chat with Ben. Maybe telling Joe won't be that hard after all...
*Joe's POV*
I finally finished my article. This was definitely one of my better ones. I emailed it to my boss just minutes ago. She'll definitely like it.
I looked at the clock. It was 1:30. Sadie would be home soon. She was cooking her amazing curried stir-fry tonight. I was excited. Mom and Dad were gonna come. They like Sadie's cooking too.
I decided to put a shirt on and comb my hair, since I haven't really moved from this couch for a couple hours.
I got up from my seat, noticing the butt rut on the seat. I must have been sitting there for a while.
I walked up the stairs and to my room. I looked around in my closet for a clean shirt. Since my parents were coming over, I wanted to look slightly presentable. So, I picked out a button up shirt with a frayed collar. It had black and blue stripes.
In all honesty, not all of my clothes are that bizarre. I just pair them oddly. I like colors that clash. Clashing in good. Clashy is Flashy.
I also wear weird hats and shoes. And socks. But, I like them.
As I buttoned up my shirt, I heard Sadie walk in the door. I figured I'd go downstairs and see her.
*Sadie's POV*
I walked in the door, and almost immediately heard Joe's footsteps come down the stairs.
Oh God. I was going to tell him now.
My heart started to pound. I was definitely going to do it. I had to. I couldn't keep it from him.
He appeared in front of me, looking quite sharp as always. He greeted me with a smile and a kiss.
"Hey. I'm so bored. Let's go somewhere." Joe said, lifting me up.
I laughed, and faced him.
"Where do you wanna go?"
"I don't know. We don't have to go somewhere. I just wanna do something." He said with a grin.
Oh boy... I guess I could tell him now.
Okay. Uh, I'm actually kind of tired. Do you wanna take a nap with me cuz I'm exhausted." I said. I actually wasn't totally lying. I really was tired. And I was really hot.
"Okay. Napping is cool." Joe said, carrying me up the stairs. I rested my head on his shoulder. I'm sure I looked cool as a cucumber on the outside, but inside I was fully freaking out in my head.
We got to our bedroom, and Joe plopped me on the bed. He took his shirt off and crawled under the covers. I crawled under as well, and propped my head up on my hand.
"Uh, Joe?"
"Yeah dear?" He answered, putting one of his arms around my waist.
"Uh... I kind of want to talk to you about some thing."
His eyes shot open, not knowing where this was going to go.
"W-what do you wanna talk about?" He asked, looking concerned.
I took a deep breath, and answered him.
"Well, um... at the wedding. I uh... found something out."
Joe looked at me with a worried look
"What? Is everything okay? Like, I don't know where you're really going with this."
I couldn't help but cry a couple tears. This was so nerve wracking it wasn't even funny. Joe quickly sat up moved me onto his lap when he saw me cry.
"Oh God. You're not okay. Sadie what's wrong? I really need to know." He said with fear in his voice.
"I... I'm... "
"You're what?"
"I'm pregnant."
There. I said it. If he freaks out, so be it.
Joe sucked his lips in for a second, and then breathed in as if he was about to say something. But he didn't. He just exhaled, and sat up.
He was just silent. It was like he was really deep in thought or something.
"Joe, say something."
I was really worried now. I don't think he's happy. This just made me cry more.
"Joe, please!" I wept. Seeing as I was extra emotional because of the hormones from pregnancy, I really didn't need this. This was too much for me. Joe was still silent. I couldn't believe him! Why did he have to be like this!
I pitched the sheets off of me and left the room crying. I loved Joe. I really did. But sometimes I just didn't get him. He was so juvenile sometimes.
I walked down just one of the flights of stairs to the third floor where my favourite resting spot was. My studio. This was my thinking space. I closed the door behind me and locked it.
This was really not a good time for Joe to be like this. His parents were going to be here in a couple hours. Maybe I would just have to call them and cancel. I could tell them I was sick or something. Or maybe Joe was sick. Sick in the head. Now that wouldn't be a complete lie.
I sat in my red, comfy armchair and just cried into my hands. What if Joe just doesn't want this baby at all? What if he leaves? I can't raise a baby alone. Babies are hard work. Sure, I've looked after so many in the orphanage, but with one of my own full time, I don't think I could.
I sat there for a little while longer, just crying and shaking. My head started to buzz. My head always had this awful buzzing feeling whenever I cried a lot.
Suddenly, I heard a light tapping on the door.
Oh God. Joe wants to talk.
Well you know what? He took long enough to come over here and talk to me. He made me wait. I'm not answering. He can wait his sorry ass off for me to answer for all I care.
"Sadie? Sadie dear please open the door. I know you're in there." He said, his muffled voice hurting me with every vibration of his vocal chord. I don't think he knows what he just did to me by not saying anything at all when I told him I was pregnant.
"Sadie... please. I really want to talk to you."
Fuck you. You hurt me.
"Sadie... I'm really sorry. But... I can explain."
Explain? What's there to explain? You don't want this baby and you're a huge ass! That's about the truest answer you could give me.
"Sadie please."
No. I'm not opening that damned door.
I heard Joe sigh, and lean up against the door.
"Alright. I know you can hear me, so since you won't open the door, which I understand, I'll just talk through the door."
I bit my lip and let out a silent sob. I could hear him quite clearly, and I wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not. Was I going to want to hear what he was about to say?
"Sadie, when I was younger... I didn't think I liked writing. The thought of it didn't appeal to me at first. But, I was never given something to write about that interested me. When I was given a chance to think about what was good about writing, and what I could do with it, it started to intrigue me. Once I tried it out, I fell in love with it. So Sadie... you tell me we're expecting a baby. Now, you telling me that... Is like me falling in love with writing all over again. I'm frightened by the initial topic itself, but... after trying out parenthood Sadie... I'm gonna fall in love with it. I'm sure of it."
I stood up from my seat. I slowly opened the door to reveal a haggard looking Joe, looking really guilty.
How could I hate him? I take back everything I just said about him. I mean... wow. That took a lot of heart. He really does want this baby.
"Joe... that is the sweetest lie I've ever heard."
*Sadie's POV*
I woke up at quarter to ten, feeling a wave of nausea come over me.
Morning sickness...
I grabbed my bathrobe off the floor, slipped it on, and rushed to the bathroom down the hall so I could puke my guts out.
Lovely...
I must have woken up Joe, because he got up, slipped on some boxers and met me in the washroom. He got down on his knees and rubbed my back. I seriously was feeling shitty right now. I hope this goes away.
"You okay dear?" Joe asked me as I flushed the toilet and got up.
"Yeah. I'm fine. I'm just a little nauseous. It'll pass though. I have lunch with Ben today, and our parents are coming over for dinner." I said, grabbing my toothbrush and toothpaste. I put some of the thick substance on my toothbrush and ran it under cold water for a second, before sticking it in my mouth and scrubbing away the gross taste.
"So what time are you seeing Ben?" Joe asked me, snaking his arms around my waist.
It was weird, Joe's feelings about Ben. He didn't really like him all that much, but he didn't... not like him. I don't know. It's different. I've always had a little hunch that he doesn't trust me all that much while I'm alone with Ben. But, it's a gut instinct and not a fact. Thus, I shouldn't jump to conclusions.
"Around noon. We're going to Ichiro for some sushi." I mumbled with my toothbrush still in my mouth.
"Cool. Isn't that your dad's favourite?" Joe asked, leaning his head on my shoulder.
"Yup."
I spat my toothpaste into the sink and washed it down. I was still feeling pretty ill but I wasn't gonna vomit again.
I got up, gave Joe a peck on the cheek, and called dibs on the upstairs shower.
"I get the upstairs shower this time." I said tiredly, but smiling.
"Fine... But you have to cook breakfast."
"Sure, I don't mind." I said, walking to the bathroom where my shower awaited. I loved showers in the morning. They woke me up.
I closed the door behind me and started my shower. I was feeling kind of nervous. I was probably gonna tell him today.
But honestly, I felt like I really had to talk to someone. Which is why I was happy to be going for lunch with Ben. He was usually a pretty understanding guy.
I just had a quick shower today. I didn't need to wash my hair because I had done that the night before. So I just rinsed off and got out. I blow-dried my hair, put my robe back on and walked down the many flights of stairs. When I got to the kitchen Joe wasn't there yet, so I decided to start cooking breakfast.
I grabbed a pack of back bacon and cut it into thin slices. I plopped them into the frying pan, and grabbed two cranberry muffins. I placed them onto two small plates and put them down on the table. I grabbed a jug of orange juice and poured myself some. Joe preferred coffee in the morning, which is dumb. I'm not actually all that fond of coffee. Sometimes I'll have some, but tea is better.
The second I turned the stove off and placed the bacon onto a plate, Joe walked into the kitchen wearing his Joey Ramone style jeans. The ones that get narrower at the ankle. He hadn't put a shirt on yet.
"Well well, I came down just at the right time." Joe said, sitting down in the booth.
"Yeah, well you're making breakfast tomorrow." I laughed, sitting down with him. My nose was kind of plugged up so I decided to grab a Kleenex and blow.
I tossed the Kleenex in the trash, but suddenly the wafting smell of the bacon made its way to my nose.
And it made me nauseous.
Yeah, I had heard about this. When you're pregnant sometimes certain smells from foods makes you terribly nauseous.
I sat down, not breathing through my nose, and ate my muffin.
"Aren't you having any bacon?" Joe asked me, placing his fork back on his plate.
"Uh, no. I just realized I'm not that hungry." I lied. I was actually starved. Oh well. I'll just eat more at lunch.
"Alright. I probably won't finish all of this so I'll put it back in the fridge." Joe said, biting a chunk off his muffin.
We finished our breakfast, and Joe offered to put the dishes away. As he was doing that, I went upstairs to get dressed.
*Joe's POV*
I offered to do the dishes for Sadie, since she made me such a nice breakfast. I wonder why she didn't eat much. She's usually starving in the morning. Plus, she loved back bacon. Whatever. Maybe she's eating small amounts because she doesn't want to throw them up again. Yeah, that's probably why.
I scratched my bare chest while flipping through the channels on the television. I ended up stopping on a music channel so I could get a good idea of what the music of today was like. I needed a little more good material for my article, then I'll be done.
A band called 'Blizzard Starfish' had a video that was playing on MTV. Man, all the good band names must be taken.
Another thing I noticed, this wasn't completely like the rock I knew and loved. This was like... techno rock. Oh well. You can't expect everything to go your way.
*Sadie's POV*
I looked around in my closet for something to wear. I always wanted to look good in my terms, whenever I went out. I was bound to be found by photographers, and posted in the latest tabloid.
I grabbed a knee length, orange Thai skirt that I had purchased just recently, and a white blouse with a wide collar. I figured I'd wear my knee-high leather boots today to add a little edge to my clothing. I was actually looking surprisingly normal today. Well, in my terms. I decided to add a big brown belt I had designed myself, just for good measure. I buckled it around my waist, and walked towards the bathroom where I did my makeup, and put my long blue hair into a messy bun.
I looked at the clock. It was 11:30 already. Hey, it usually took me a long time to do my makeup.
I walked down the stairs, trying to stay balanced, what with my big boots and all. Once I got to the main floor I looked for my round, John Lennon inspired glasses.
As it turns out, Joe had borrowed them and placed them into his murse after wearing them.
I grabbed them, and skittered over to one of the TV rooms, where I was sure to find Joe.
There he was, lying on the couch, drinking Steaz Raspberry Green Tea Soda. We both loved that stuff.
"Joe, I'm going out for lunch now. I'll see you soon."
"Okay. Love you." Joe said, waving lazily.
"Love you too."
I grabbed the keys to my Jaguar and went to the garage. I didn't want to take the MGA out today because I'm the only person in the bay area with that car. I'd get noticed quickly. There was even an article in Us Weekly about my and Joe's cars. Our MGA, our Jaguar convertible, The Mystery Machine van, and our Hybrid.
I opened the garage door and opened the door to my car. I grabbed my polka dot scarf and tied it around my head so my hair wouldn't get messed in the wind.
I stepped into my car and pulled out of the driveway. I closed the garage door with the remote and drove down the street. Ichiro was a ways away, so it would take me a while. I hope I don't arrive late.
The whole car ride there, my heart was pounding. I was definitely gonna ask Ben for some advice because I really needed to talk to someone, and I trust him fully.
You know, if Joe and I hadn't gotten together, Ben and I would probably have. Ben was a really good guy. But I love Joe, and I'm staying with him. Even though, at one point in time I definitely had some feelings for him. I don't think I do anymore.
I wonder what his reaction will be when I tell him I'm pregnant. He'll probably be really taken back. This whole thing was just so unexpected.
I turned my CD player on and popped in my Fiona Apple album. I turned it to my favourite track, Shadow Boxer, and drummed my fingers against the steering wheel. I liked jazz and stuff. I grew up listening to Louis Armstrong. I always knew I was quite cultured musically. I listened to everything.
I remember in middle school before I was in the orphanage, I was the only person in my class who knew who Grace Slick was. I mean, how could someone not know the biggest female singer in the 1970's? And also, nobody knew who Janis Joplin was. Or Hendrix, or Pete Townshend, or Simple Minds. I mean, Juh-heeze Louise.
Before I knew it, I was pulling into the lot of my Dad's favourite restaurant. I saw Ben's car in one of the parking spaces so I knew he had already arrived.
I turned the car off and went inside the restaurant. I went to the front desk because I had made reservations.
"Hi, uh, party for two under Captain Kirk?" I said to the man at the front desk. Captain Kirk was the name I used at restaurants or hotels so I wouldn't be recognized.
"Uh, yes. Your lunch guest has already arrived. Right this was... Captain." The man said, leading me towards a table in the back.
Ben stood up when he saw me and we gave each other a quick hug before sitting back down.
"Hey Sadie. How're you?"
"Uh, alright. Yourself?"
"Pretty good. I'm dating again." Ben said as a waiter came over and poured us some water.
Ben had just come out of a terrible relationship with this girl Chelsea. She bossed him around all the time and stuff. Ben was kind of a push over sometimes.
"Oh that's good."
The waiter cleared his throat, and then spoke.
"Sorry to interrupt but, our specials today are crab California rolls for $22.00, and the caviar rolls with basil leaves for $25.00. Our soup of the day is Wonton Pho, and our drink specials are the Long Island Ice Tea and Strawberry Daiquiri, for $4.25. Can I start you off with some drinks?"
"Uh, yes I'll have a glass of cranberry juice." I said.
"Uh, I'll have the same." Ben added.
"Alright. I'll be back in a minute to take your orders." The waiter said. He sauntered away with a slight bounce in his step.
"I think I'll just have a bowl of the Wonton Pho. Do you know what you're getting?" I asked Ben.
"Uh, I'll have those California rolls. So, tell me. What have you been up to?"
Ben took his glasses of for a second to clean them on his shirt. I answered when I put them back on.
"Well, I went to Bree's wedding yesterday. That was cool. I had fun."
"Oh yeah. That must have been fun. So, how's Joe doing?"
"He's great. He's been working on a new article. From what he's told me about it, it sounds pretty good. He never lets me read his articles before they're in the paper for some reason, but I don't mind." I laughed.
"Really? That's weird. Well, Joe's a cool guy."
"Indeed he is." I said.
Well, I may as well start to explain to him my whole dilemma. Well, not exactly a dilemma, but you know what I mean. I just don't want it to sound like I'm totally disappointed about this baby, because I'm excited. I'm just so nervous that's all...
"Uh Ben, I kind of want to talk to you about something. I need some advice from you. You're a smart guy. I trust ya." I said, twirling a strand of blue hair and looking out the window.
Ben looked at me oddly and replied.
"Okay... Uh, what's bugging you?" He said, looking rather concerned.
Right when I was about to answer, the waiter came back with our drinks.
"Here you go. Now may I take your order?" He said, pulling out a notepad.
"Uh, yes. I'll have a bowl of the Wonton Pho, and he'll have the California rolls." I said quickly. I just wanted to tell Ben right away. I needed to tell someone sooo badly.
"Alright." The waiter said.
He walked away, and I turned back to Ben, who immediately knew something was wrong.
"Sadie, are you okay?" Ben asked, sipping his juice.
"Uh... not exactly. Well I am but... I don't know." I said, my eyes almost brimming with tears.
"Oh shit. Sadie please don't cry. Did something happen between you and Joe?"
I shook my head no, and then I just let it out. I was finally gonna tell someone.
"Ben... I'm pregnant. And I'm afraid to tell Joe because I don't know what his reaction will be because I know how happy he is with things right now. I just really needed to tell someone before I told him. Just to calm me down a bit I guess."
Ben jaw dropped. His eyes were wide, and his opened mouth curled up into an excited smile.
"Sadie that's awesome! Are you serious? I mean... this is... incredible! Sadie you're gonna be a mom! Why do you think Joe will react badly? I mean, I'm sure he'd be really happy!"
I looked up at him and smiled. That's exactly what I wanted to hear. I was going to reply but Ben started to ramble. He did that a lot when he was really excited.
"Sadie, he would love nothing more than to be a Dad I'm sure! And you're really responsible! Way more responsible than I am. Oh my God I can't even believe this. You have to name it something really really cool! And-"
"Ben calm down." I said smiling. I hope Joe reacts half as well as Ben is reacting.
"Oh, sorry. But, you should be totally pumped! I mean, you shouldn't be nervous. Sure, it'll be a challenge, but it'll be totally worth it. Challenges are good."
I am so glad I decided to have this chat with Ben. Maybe telling Joe won't be that hard after all...
*Joe's POV*
I finally finished my article. This was definitely one of my better ones. I emailed it to my boss just minutes ago. She'll definitely like it.
I looked at the clock. It was 1:30. Sadie would be home soon. She was cooking her amazing curried stir-fry tonight. I was excited. Mom and Dad were gonna come. They like Sadie's cooking too.
I decided to put a shirt on and comb my hair, since I haven't really moved from this couch for a couple hours.
I got up from my seat, noticing the butt rut on the seat. I must have been sitting there for a while.
I walked up the stairs and to my room. I looked around in my closet for a clean shirt. Since my parents were coming over, I wanted to look slightly presentable. So, I picked out a button up shirt with a frayed collar. It had black and blue stripes.
In all honesty, not all of my clothes are that bizarre. I just pair them oddly. I like colors that clash. Clashing in good. Clashy is Flashy.
I also wear weird hats and shoes. And socks. But, I like them.
As I buttoned up my shirt, I heard Sadie walk in the door. I figured I'd go downstairs and see her.
*Sadie's POV*
I walked in the door, and almost immediately heard Joe's footsteps come down the stairs.
Oh God. I was going to tell him now.
My heart started to pound. I was definitely going to do it. I had to. I couldn't keep it from him.
He appeared in front of me, looking quite sharp as always. He greeted me with a smile and a kiss.
"Hey. I'm so bored. Let's go somewhere." Joe said, lifting me up.
I laughed, and faced him.
"Where do you wanna go?"
"I don't know. We don't have to go somewhere. I just wanna do something." He said with a grin.
Oh boy... I guess I could tell him now.
Okay. Uh, I'm actually kind of tired. Do you wanna take a nap with me cuz I'm exhausted." I said. I actually wasn't totally lying. I really was tired. And I was really hot.
"Okay. Napping is cool." Joe said, carrying me up the stairs. I rested my head on his shoulder. I'm sure I looked cool as a cucumber on the outside, but inside I was fully freaking out in my head.
We got to our bedroom, and Joe plopped me on the bed. He took his shirt off and crawled under the covers. I crawled under as well, and propped my head up on my hand.
"Uh, Joe?"
"Yeah dear?" He answered, putting one of his arms around my waist.
"Uh... I kind of want to talk to you about some thing."
His eyes shot open, not knowing where this was going to go.
"W-what do you wanna talk about?" He asked, looking concerned.
I took a deep breath, and answered him.
"Well, um... at the wedding. I uh... found something out."
Joe looked at me with a worried look
"What? Is everything okay? Like, I don't know where you're really going with this."
I couldn't help but cry a couple tears. This was so nerve wracking it wasn't even funny. Joe quickly sat up moved me onto his lap when he saw me cry.
"Oh God. You're not okay. Sadie what's wrong? I really need to know." He said with fear in his voice.
"I... I'm... "
"You're what?"
"I'm pregnant."
There. I said it. If he freaks out, so be it.
Joe sucked his lips in for a second, and then breathed in as if he was about to say something. But he didn't. He just exhaled, and sat up.
He was just silent. It was like he was really deep in thought or something.
"Joe, say something."
I was really worried now. I don't think he's happy. This just made me cry more.
"Joe, please!" I wept. Seeing as I was extra emotional because of the hormones from pregnancy, I really didn't need this. This was too much for me. Joe was still silent. I couldn't believe him! Why did he have to be like this!
I pitched the sheets off of me and left the room crying. I loved Joe. I really did. But sometimes I just didn't get him. He was so juvenile sometimes.
I walked down just one of the flights of stairs to the third floor where my favourite resting spot was. My studio. This was my thinking space. I closed the door behind me and locked it.
This was really not a good time for Joe to be like this. His parents were going to be here in a couple hours. Maybe I would just have to call them and cancel. I could tell them I was sick or something. Or maybe Joe was sick. Sick in the head. Now that wouldn't be a complete lie.
I sat in my red, comfy armchair and just cried into my hands. What if Joe just doesn't want this baby at all? What if he leaves? I can't raise a baby alone. Babies are hard work. Sure, I've looked after so many in the orphanage, but with one of my own full time, I don't think I could.
I sat there for a little while longer, just crying and shaking. My head started to buzz. My head always had this awful buzzing feeling whenever I cried a lot.
Suddenly, I heard a light tapping on the door.
Oh God. Joe wants to talk.
Well you know what? He took long enough to come over here and talk to me. He made me wait. I'm not answering. He can wait his sorry ass off for me to answer for all I care.
"Sadie? Sadie dear please open the door. I know you're in there." He said, his muffled voice hurting me with every vibration of his vocal chord. I don't think he knows what he just did to me by not saying anything at all when I told him I was pregnant.
"Sadie... please. I really want to talk to you."
Fuck you. You hurt me.
"Sadie... I'm really sorry. But... I can explain."
Explain? What's there to explain? You don't want this baby and you're a huge ass! That's about the truest answer you could give me.
"Sadie please."
No. I'm not opening that damned door.
I heard Joe sigh, and lean up against the door.
"Alright. I know you can hear me, so since you won't open the door, which I understand, I'll just talk through the door."
I bit my lip and let out a silent sob. I could hear him quite clearly, and I wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not. Was I going to want to hear what he was about to say?
"Sadie, when I was younger... I didn't think I liked writing. The thought of it didn't appeal to me at first. But, I was never given something to write about that interested me. When I was given a chance to think about what was good about writing, and what I could do with it, it started to intrigue me. Once I tried it out, I fell in love with it. So Sadie... you tell me we're expecting a baby. Now, you telling me that... Is like me falling in love with writing all over again. I'm frightened by the initial topic itself, but... after trying out parenthood Sadie... I'm gonna fall in love with it. I'm sure of it."
I stood up from my seat. I slowly opened the door to reveal a haggard looking Joe, looking really guilty.
How could I hate him? I take back everything I just said about him. I mean... wow. That took a lot of heart. He really does want this baby.
"Joe... that is the sweetest lie I've ever heard."
