The lack of photos is our doing.
Because we put them away since they were us in a different time.
My phone vibrates, and I pull it out of my pocket in case it’s the station. I’m not supposed to be in until tomorrow, but that will only be to handle administration work. The name on my screen causes my mouth to smile wryly.
Rosie:
Hey. I’m going to tell my parents later today.
I’m quick to reply.
Okay, give me a time and I’ll be there.
Um, no. I can do this myself.
So damn frustrating, her independent streak. I’m a little traditional, so breaking it to her father that she’s pregnant by her ex isn’t going to be happening solo.
Yeeeeah
That’s all I reply before I grab my car keys because I’m not going to listen to her.
6
ROSIE
Tossing a shirt carelessly into my suitcase, I’m still trying to grasp what I’ve agreed to.
To move into my ex-husband’s, now my baby daddy’s, house, that’s what.
But in the spur of the moment, I felt that he was right. I don’t want to treat this as though we only need to see one another when it’s a necessity for the pregnancy. When the baby comes, I want more than basic communication. The sound of only co-parenting in our situation isn’t the right label. However, it will take more than a suitcase in his guestroom to unravel our own baggage if we ever decide that we want to be more than parents. The fact that I am even thinking of other possibilities says enough of what I have been harboring in my mind. So, here I am packing.
Bella scoffs a laugh when she pulls out items from my desk to add to a box. I forgot she was here.
She freaked out when I called her to say I was at the hospital and staying the day in Everhope, but she calmed down when I told her I was with Carter. I haven’t yet figured out what her thoughts are on my situation, but she goes along with my choices, nonetheless.
“Can I be there when you tell Mom and Dad? I really want to see their faces.”
It’s not that I’m packing then bolting. It’s just that I’m preparing for my move which will be in the near future… or days… day, singular. Almost a shame, really, because this house is great. My dad is an architect, and he designed this house when I was only five. It’s big enough for a family of eight, with a pool even. It has everything one could need, except offering me a clue on my current life decisions.
I told Carter that I would inform my parents, and I know they won’t tell anyone of my current state until I’m ready. Still, it feels daunting. It might even feel like I’m back in high school and in trouble after sneaking out.
“When are they back?” I double-check.
She quickly glances at her phone screen. “In an hour. They had errands then were going to grab lunch. You know how they are. Still want to date and act all cutesy. It’s funny how all of Bluetop looks to them like they’re a fairy tale. From Homecoming King and Queen to married. Living the dream.”
I give her a pointed look because now isn’t the time to hear about happily-ever-afters. “I have to say, this might not be my proudest moment. I disappeared for two days and now I’m going to be moving out without much notice.”
“They only want the best for you,” she assures me and walks to the window to grab another bag on the floor that needs to be filled.
I’m relieved that the medicine the doctor gave me has been helping. I’m not quite refreshed but almost there.
“Hey, Rosie.” She seems interested in something as she looks out the window and peers down at the driveway. “Uh, is Carter supposed to be here?”
Instantly, the sweater in my hand plops into the suitcase and I beeline it to the window, only to see Carter emerging from his car.
“Oh no.” My jaw tightens.
“I take that as a no.”
