Page 110 of Dancing Fools and All That Jazz
I can see him doing a calculation in his head.
‘It will be full term at the end of the year. Jay, what are we going to do?’
‘What are we going to do? I guess we’re going to become parents.’
‘Jay, be serious. I thought you did not want children, well not yet.’
‘I am being serious. I mean, I never said I didn’t want any, and I always thought we would end up with children one day… Ash this is big… I mean huge. Just think, our child is growing inside of you.’
‘You mean, you do not mind?’
‘Well, we could have got the timing a bit better, but – oh wow – I am going to be a father.’
‘But our wedding? Our travel plans? I mean I probably will not be showing for the ceremony, but our big trip away, travelling the world?’
Jay chews his lip and then looks at me, his eyes shining. ‘Wait, we don’t need to change anything.’
‘What?’
‘We can travel for three, maybe four months, come home to have the baby and then take the child with us to complete our trip.’
‘That sounds crazy.’
‘No, it’ll be the perfect time. It’ll be easier while the baby is tiny and not mobile. No extra airfares and you’ll be paid maternity leave for the trip rather than taking an unpaid sabbatical. More money for us to spend on nicebaby-friendly hotels.’
‘I suppose that could work… but Jay, slow down. I am not sure I am ready to be a mother. I feel like my body has been invaded, and the sickness is terrible.’
‘Youhavebeen invaded. By a tiny creation made from our love. I hope it’s a girl. She will be as beautiful as you and dance just like you.’
‘And what if I want a little boy who will look just like you – but with my teeth, obviously…’
‘Obviously.’
‘…and be as positive as you no matter what bad news comes their way, well what then?’
‘Boy or girl, I don’t mind. And anyway, it could be twins. One of each.’ Jay laughs and I wag my finger at him.
‘Do not even dare suggest that. Getting used to having one baby will be enough for now.’
I feel nauseous again, so sip more water and nibble another crisp.
‘What are you eating?’
‘Crisps, for the sickness… Jay, you realise I am going to get big and fat.’
‘No, you won’t. You’ll be swollen with our baby, not fat. And you’ll be as beautiful then as you are now.’
‘But look at Rashmi.’
‘Your sister never took care of herself. She’s not like you. You’ll be a very yummy mummy!’
I think of Monica. She is stunningly beautiful and trim despite having twins. Jay is right. Just because I am pregnant, I do not need to let myself go. I am not Rashmi.
‘You’ll be a wonderful mother, Ash. And I reckon I’ll be a terrific father. I can’t wait to see you. I love you.’
‘I love you, too. Now do not go saying anything to Ma and Baba or anyone else for that matter. I need time… and we should not tell anyone before the wedding anyway…’
‘My lips are sealed. Good luck in the finals too, or should I say break a…’
