"Uncertainty and Fear"

Ashley fidgeted on the couch, checking her watch for what felt like the hundredth time. She had been waiting for what felt like an eternity for Gerald to come home from the studio. Her mind was racing with thoughts of how to break the news to him, and her stomach was doing somersaults with anxiety. She had decided to make reservations at a quiet restaurant downtown, hoping that a more intimate setting would help to soften the blow. As she waited, Ashley got up and began to get ready. She slipped into a pair of skinny jeans and a white t-shirt, adding a leather jacket to give herself a bit of edge. She laced up her Converse and ran a brush through her hair, trying to calm her nerves. She texted Gerald the time and location of their dinner reservation, her heart racing with anticipation. As she sat back down on the couch, Ashley's mind began to wander to all the worst-case scenarios. What if he leaves me? What if he doesn't want the baby? What if he doesn't want me? She thought about all the times he had talked about not wanting kids, and how he valued his freedom above all else. Could she really expect him to change his mind now? Ashley took a deep breath and tried to push the thoughts aside. She had to be strong, for herself and for her baby. She couldn't let her fear and uncertainty get the best of her. She thought about all the times she had compromised for Gerald, all the times she had put his needs before her own. Maybe it was time for him to return the favor. As she waited, Ashley's anxiety began to build. She got up and began to pace around the room, trying to burn off some of her nervous energy. She checked her phone for what felt like the hundredth time, but there were no updates from Gerald. She was starting to worry that he was running late, or that he had forgotten about their plans altogether. The door finally opened, and Gerald walked in, a look of exhaustion on his face. "Hey, babe," he said, dropping his bag on the floor and walking over to kiss her. Ashley forced a smile onto her face, trying to hide her nervousness. "Hey," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Gerald looked at her, noticing that she was dressed up. "What's going on?" he asked, his eyes scanning her outfit. "You look amazing, but I thought we were just going to chill tonight?" Ashley took a deep breath and grabbed her purse. "We are," she said, trying to sound casual. "I made reservations at that new restaurant downtown. I thought it would be nice to get out of the house for a bit." Gerald raised an eyebrow, but didn't push the issue. "Okay, cool," he said, shrugging. "Let's go." As they headed out the door, Ashley couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. What would happen next? Would she be able to tell him about the pregnancy, or would she chicken out? Only time would tell.