Page 52 of Upon an April Night

They were all quiet at first. Shannon and Nana exchanged glances. Papa’s brow was furrowed, while Mama’s eyes filled with tears.

Nana broke the silence. “Congratulations.” She stood and walked over to them, took one of Duncan’s hands and one of Jamie’s and squeezed.

Shannon came over and hugged each of them.

Mama wiped away a tear. “When did this happen?”

Duncan went to sit next to his mother. “It happened before I went to Denver.”

“What about Dréa?” she asked.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen there. She said she needed to think.”

“Do you still want to marry her?”

“Yes.”

“Well, she has a good head on her shoulders. I’m sure she’ll forgive you.”

“Maybe.” He glanced over at Jamie, whose head had fallen. Hearing them talk about his relationship with Dréa probably hurt her.

Mama spoke softly to her son. “How did this happen?”

“A moment of weakness, Mama. I’m sorry for disappointing you.”

She reached up and lovingly touched his face. “God is merciful and forgives us when we fail.”

“I know.”

Mama turned to Jamie. “How far along are you?”

“Thirteen weeks.” Her response was quiet.

“Have you seen a doctor?” she asked.

“I saw one in Pennsylvania when I was visiting my parents, and I have another appointment coming up with my doctor here. Duncan’s going with me.”

“Good. That’s good.” Mama stood and walked over to Jamie, cupping her cheek with her hand. “This baby is a blessing, and we’re here for you. Whatever you need.”

It warmed Duncan’s heart to hear his mother’s words.

“Thank you for saying that.” Jamie sniffled and brushed away a tear.

Papa cleared his throat to speak. He was a man of few words, so when he spoke, they listened. “This isn’t an easy situation. It’s going to take a lot of maturity and communication on everyone’s parts to make it work. Especially if Duncan and Dréa’s wedding happens as planned. But I believe God will get us through it.”

Jamie looked down at her hands, which were resting against her belly, and Duncan was reminded again that she didn’t share their faith. That was going to make raising a baby together even trickier.

“How are you feeling?” Shannon asked. “Do you need anything to drink? Are you hungry? Can I do anything for you?”

Jamie giggled at her friend. “Okay, we get it. You’re going for the title of Best Aunt, but I’m fine, Shan. Really.”

“I will be the best aunt in the world.”

“Only because Sophia is never around.”

“That’s not why. I am the best at spoiling, and I plan to spoil this baby so good.”

They laughed together, and Duncan liked the sound. It felt so natural, having Jamie there, but Dréa was still at the forefront of his mind. He wondered if she would be in his life after today or if she would throw the ring in his face the next time they saw each other. He hoped there was still room in her heart for him and that maybe there would be room for his baby as well. Like Papa had said, it would take a lot for them all to come together and make this work, and he wanted so badly for things to work with Dréa.

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