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The guilt of keeping that kind of a secret and eventually having to lie to my child about their father might have crushed me, though. I would have caved eventually. But that never crossed my mind in the first place.

He deserved to know. He deserves to be a part of this and deserves the chance to be a dad.

I’m keeping that opportunity from him.

“Okay.” I acquiesce, and hope shines in Gunnar’s eyes. “I’ll make the time.”

“I don’t think you’ll regret this one, Elsie. Marshall’s one of the good ones.” He says, giving my knee a squeeze.

“I know,” I say simply.

Chapter 14

Marshall

April 9 — 14 Weeks 3 Days, Nectarine

Marshall,

I’ve made arrangements for us to spend a week at The Playground when you get back. We check in on May 4 and return home on May 12.

The baby is good but giving me the worst heartburn.

Stay safe.

Elsie

April 10 — 14 Weeks 4 Days, Nectarine

E,

TUMS. All my searches say TUMS will help with the heartburn.

Looking forward to a week at The Playground. While we’re out there, we should go see my family. They’re only an hour away from the resort.

M

P.S. 17 days until I’m home.

April 12 — 14 Weeks 6 Days, Nectarine

Marshall,

You want me to meet your family? Doesn’t that seem a little soon? I am still not sure I am ready to meet the family.

The TUMS are working. Well, they work when I pop them like candy. Thank you.

Elsie

April 13 — 15 Weeks, Apple

E,

Today marks 15 weeks. The baby is the size of an apple now.

No. I don’t think it’s too soon. We should probably tell them about the baby soon anyway. They’re going to be so excited.

P.S. 14 days until I’m back.