“Ronny, we have to forget what happened yesterday. That was wrong. We can’t talk about it ever again. Today, I’m going to tell your dad that all is well and that I’m still pregnant. And you’re going to go along with me.”
“The only way I will is if you promise we’ll make a baby as soon as we get home this morning. That way it won’t be a lie. Otherwise, I’m telling Dad you’re not pregnant. As simple as that.”
“You wouldn’t dare. I know you wouldn’t. You wouldn’t do that to me. You wouldn’t do that to your father. It would break his heart and his will.”
“Promise me then,” Ronny said.
“I can’t,” I whispered.
***************************
“There’s my team,” Greg said.
We had mostly not talked on the way to the Family Readiness Center. It would have been so much easier if we didn’t have our communications restricted due to security. It would be nice to just pick up a phone or Skype. But, this is how it had to be in these tense times.
“Hi, Dad. I’m trying to do what you said.”
“Remind me,” Greg said. He laughed on the screen.
I was petrified about what Ronny was going to say. I even considered leaving him behind, but couldn’t do that to father and son. You never knew if this could be the last time they would see each other. That constant threat and fear gnawed at us all waiting for loved ones away.
“To fill in for you. To be the man of the house. To take care of Mom. You know, all that.”
“Son, I’m proud of you! Sounds like you’re stepping up and doing what has to be done.”
“It’s just that Mom doesn’t see it that way all the time.”
“Ronny!” I interjected. “Be careful.”
“Sara, I know this is difficult for you. But, you have a real man there at home with you. Stop treating him like a child and let him spread his wings.”
I wondered what Greg would think if he knew his son wanted to spread my legs.
“I don’t know when we’ll be able to talk next,” Greg said, suddenly serious. “We’ll be on the move, and things are all up in the air. It’s all easier if I know you’ve got things under control there and are getting along.”
“Things will be great here, Greg. I guarantee it. You just take care of yourself and remember we love you.”
“That means a lot. And, when I get home, there will be that extra special delivery that should be ready. How do you feel about a new brother or sister, Ronny?”
Ronny looked at me before speaking. “I’m glad you brought that up, Dad, because I’ve been thinking about it and have something important to tell you.”
“What is it, son?”
“Ronny, don’t,” I said, panic overtaking me.
“It’s all about a promise, Dad, one that I want Mom to make.” He looked at me and I shook my head “no.”
“A promise?”
“Yeah, I want her to promise me something important in front of you.” He leaned over to me and whispered, “Promise or I’ll tell him.”
“Ronny … please….”
“What’s this promise about, Sara. Don’t make me micromanage things there. If it’s going to be good for the family, do it.”
Ronny looked at me again and the tension of the moment broke my resistance. I nodded my head to him “yes.”
“Great,” Ronny said. “Mom just promised I can help name the baby with you two,” he deftly lied.