The nudge that started this snap fiction story (what’s that?) was a home in my neighborhood undergoing renovation. They were adding a new top floor to the structure.
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Almost There, My Love
“The nursery is coming along nicely, don’t you think?”
“I still don’t think it’s a good idea.”
“We’ve been over this. It’s the perfect space. Lots of light, lots of room.”
—An arm across her shoulders, a quick squeeze.
“I just don’t like the idea of having her on another floor.”
“With the monitor, you’ll hear every single breath. And I’ll carry her down if you’re tired.”
“Just like you’d also walk Bonkers every morning?”
“Hey, no fair. I can’t help it that I got that job.”
—Both hands in coat pockets.
“I know that. But it’s just—I’m so tired. And it… it just doesn’t feel right.”
“Don’t worry, you’ll get used to the idea in no time once she’s here. And we need some us-time too.”
“You could turn it into a game room, or a TV den. We could even put a pool table up there.”
“Seriously? The whole point of the new floor is that we need space for Tess.”
“Yes, but not necessarily that space. We can rethink.”
“My love…”
“I want to rethink.”
—An extended elbow. An arm passes through.
“If you want, we can sit down and have a look at it again. Sure.”
“I know you just want what’s best for me. I do.”
“Not just you. All of us, all three.”
“Hey, all four.”
—A kiss on her forehead.
“That’s right, all four.”
“Come on, Bonkers, we’re going.”
“He still doesn’t get to go upstairs, though.”
“We’ll see.”
“Seriously.”
“I’m feeling better already.”
• • •
