Back home, I acted coquettishly with Linda, begging her to accompany me to the next prenatal check-up. Otherwise, it would lead to more misunderstandings.
At the dinner table, Linda tactfully conveyed my thoughts to Martin.
His face darkened. He put down his fork and left without finishing his meal, leaving Linda and me looking at each other in dismay.
Was Martin upset that I had rejected his kindness?
After dinner, Linda made plans to go out with friends and might not come home for the night.
Feeling physically exhausted, I went to bed early.
In my drowsy sleep, I smelled a strong scent of alcohol.
A gentle kiss landed squarely on my slightly rounded belly.
I thought it was Ray coming back from a social event and teasing me, so I didn't pay attention.
But when that deep, husky voice sounded, I jolted awake.
"Dear, grow strong in your mother's belly. Daddy is waiting for you to come out!"
Martin, inebriated, spoke as he caressed my belly.
My body stiffened, and I dared not make a sound, my mind constantly replaying his words.
I reassured myself that he must have said it wrong due to his drunkenness.