Chapter 22
1122 Words
RIZ
Dr. Enriquez printed a couple of copies of the sonogram and gave them to us. In addition to the blood test, she also prescribed vitamins. Overall, Baby and I are doing well. She advised me to avoid stress and not to overexert myself. Regular exercise, like simple walking, is also important.
“Son, don’t bother your wife too much, or she might get stressed,” the doctor reminded him.
“I’m sweet, Tita,” Justin replied with a smirk.
The doctor laughed. “Oh, you’re such a kid. If your mother were alive, she would surely be happy to know she’s going to have a grandchild. Take care of each other, and don’t forget your check-up next month.”
“Thank you.”
I didn’t know that Justin’s mother had passed away. I don’t know much about his family, and I’m not sure if I should ask or if he might think I’m being nosy. I just want to get to know the family of the father of our child so that I can share stories with our child when the time comes that we are no longer together.
Justin held my hand and was always supportive. I wonder what it was like for my mother when she was pregnant with me? Dad wasn’t around at that time; he was in another country. Maybe if my mother hadn’t strayed, my family would have been intact and happy.
Justin accompanied me to the lab, and while we waited, he asked, “Are you afraid of blood?”
I shook my head. “No. I don’t really have much choice, so there’s no room for fear.”
“So you’re not afraid of your parents?” he asked, frowning.
I grimaced. Must he always ask about them? I don’t want to think about Madam Liberty. However, I do miss my father. Even though he hurt me, I know he was just overwhelmed by his feelings as a father.
“That’s a different story.”
“Hmm.” That was all he said, but he didn’t leave my side and remained standing close by. With his height, he towered over me.
“You can wait outside if you want. I can handle this.” I hate needles, but I’m not like some people who faint at the sight of one. Plus, I have to do this, and I know it won’t be the last time.
“No, I’ll stay here with you.” After he said that, he leaned down slightly to whisper to me, “I’ll be the one to inject you later.” I shot him a look, but he just winked back.
The blood draw went smoothly, and I barely felt the needle. Justin held my hand the whole time, and when the needle went in, he gently squeezed my hand, letting me know he was there.
After we returned to the car, we headed straight to the mall to shop for my things. We were dropped off at the main entrance while Manong looked for a shady parking spot. As usual, there were many people there, not all of whom were shopping. Some were just cooling off because it was so hot outside.
“Where do you want to go first?” he asked me.
“I just need to get a few things like shampoo and some bathroom supplies, and then I’m good.” My clothes still fit, and I’ll buy new ones when my belly gets bigger. Besides, I don’t have anywhere else to go.
“You need clothes and footwear.” He still didn’t let go of my hand, and every time I tried to pull away, he held on tighter. I had never walked in the mall holding someone’s hand, especially a guy’s. I’ve never had a boyfriend, so this was new for me.
“I still have—” My sentence was cut off when I heard my cell phone ring. Reysa was calling. “Let me just answer this.” Justin nodded.
“Sister! Where are you? I went to your place, but you weren’t there. Your wicked stepmother said you ran away. Is that true?”
Ran away? What kind of story is Madam telling now?
“That’s not true. Why did you call?”
“I was hoping you and Matet would join me for an out-of-town trip. Just the three of us; let’s go to Batangas. I’m so ready for the beach.”
Batangas? But I’m already here.
I cleared my throat. “I’m in Batangas.”
“Ha? You’re on vacation already? Who are you with? Wait, Matet wants to talk to you.”
The next thing I knew, I was talking to Matet.
“Yes, I’m in Batangas.”
“How long are you staying there? Where are you staying? We’ll just come to you so we can buy more alcohol.”
I grimaced. With how loud she was, I knew Justin heard my friend mention alcohol. His brow furrowed, clearly displeased.
“I don’t drink anymore. Plus, I’ll have to ask if you can come here.” I didn’t want to invite my friends to Justin’s house. Sure, we’re married, but given the situation I’m in now, I feel embarrassed to bring friends to a house that isn’t mine. “How about I just come to you at the resort?”
That’s when Justin shook his head.
“Give me a second,” I said to Matet. I covered the mouthpiece and faced Justin. “What is it?”
“Invite your friends to the house. I’d prefer that than you staying at the resort with them. No booze, Riz. You’re pregnant.”
I nodded and returned to Matet. “You guys can come to the house.” The two of them squealed with excitement. “I’ll text you the address. When are you arriving?”
“Tomorrow afternoon. I have something to do in the morning, then Reysa will pick me up from home. What do you want us to bring?”
“Nothing. Just be safe. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“We’ll bring you a handsome guy.” The two of them laughed, while Justin’s expression darkened. Don’t tell me he’s getting jealous?
“Stop it,” I scolded him.
“Tsk! As handsome as Hottie CEO. The one from Club Pyre? Isn’t he your crush?”
Justin didn’t take his eyes off me, while I was left wondering who he was talking about. This is why it’s not good to drink too much alcohol.
“Let’s just meet tomorrow. I’ll text you.”
When I ended the call, Justin was still staring at me. “Who’s that crush of yours from Club Pyre?”
- Writer
