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“BLECH!” Claude awoke to the sound of his wife throwing up in the bathroom.
”Ica?” Called Claude. “Ica are you alright?”

”BLEACH!” Worried, Claude gets out of bed and walks in to the bathroom to find Ica head down in the toilet, her thin hands grasping the sides. He walks over to kneel down beside her and places a hand gently on her back.

”Ica mon amour, are you okay?” Ica turns to look at him over her shoulder.
”I woke up feeling a bit- BLECH!” Another wretch seizes Ica’s body. “Nauseous.” She finished.

All Claude can do is comfort his wife until her wave of nausea passes. When her purging has ceased, Ica tries to stand up, but wobbles a little bit. Claude quickly reaches out to support her. “Here, I’ve got you.” He said steadying her. “Are you okay?” He asked, his dark gray eyes full of concern.

”I-I think so.” I just felt a little nauseous, that’s all. Maybe something I ate.” She said weakly.
”Okay, well maybe you shouldn’t go to work today.” Said Claude.
“No, I’ll be fine. Promise. I feel better already. I can work.”

Claude gives his wife a half hearted smile. “Well alright. Just promise me, if you start to feel sick again, come home.” He kissed her on the forehead. She gave him a wan smile.

”I will.”

***

When Ica returns home from work, she still isn’t feeling quite up to par. When she walks into the living room she sees Claude on the couch with their golden retriever puppy Roary and two cats, Irish and Nixen, studying for the meeting tonight. When he sees her, he smiles but then frowns slightly. “Ica…are you alright? You look a little pale.”

”Just feeling a little off but I should be…” All of a sudden the wave of nausea that Ica had this morning comes back to her. She drops her bag and dashes for the toilet. Once again Claude hears her vomiting. When she comes back Claude is immediately at her side.

”Alright, that’s it. You are going straight upstairs to rest. I’m worried you might have the stomach flu.” Without complaining Ica does as her husband says and heads upstairs. “I’ll be up in a minute to bring you some ginger ale and saltines.” She nods, and continues up the stairs. When she gets to her room she changes out of her work clothes and into her pyjamas.

Why did I have to get the stomach flu. I hate throwing up. Ica thought. She climbs into bed and lays back on her pillow. Roary hops up on the bed with her and curls up next to her. Not long after, Claude’s entering their bedroom with a cup of ginger ale in one hand and a package of saltines in the other. He sets the crackers down on the nightstand and hands Ica the class. She takes a tiny sip. “I’m sorry.” She said. Claude raised his eyebrows.

“For what?”
”For going to work. I should have just stayed home like you said.”

“Fille folle.” He said softly sitting down on the bed beside her. “You don’t have to apologise. It just means you are a hard worker. I love that about you. Even though you do over do it a bit at times.” Ica huffed a laugh. “But right now you need your rest mon amour. Now, immediately going to get ready to go to the meeting…unless you want me to stay here with you?”

”No, go to the meeting, I’ll be okay here. I have Roary here to take care of me.” The golden puppy raises his head. Claude reaches over and pats him on the head, making his fluffy tail thump on the bed.

”Well alright. Roary, take good care of my crazy girl while I’m gone okay?” Roary gives a soft yip. “Good boy.” As Claude gets dressed for the meeting, Ica’s nausea rears it’s ugly head by tries to push it away as not to worry Claude. When he’s done he walks over to the beside to bend down to give her a kiss, but she turns her head to the side so that he kissed her cheek. Claude gives her a quizzical look. Ica giggles.

“We’ll, it’s not that I don’t want to kiss you, but if I do have the stomach flu, I don’t want you to catch it. Plus I have puke breath.” Claude grinned.

”Well, I don’t care if you had the plague, I would still kiss you if it were up to me. But I understand. Instead he leans in to rub noses with her. “I love you. I’ll be back.”

”I love you too. Give everyone my love.” He nods and turns to leave the bedroom. When she hears the car drive off, the nausea is just to intense and once again she’s running to the toilet. “BLECH.” Why oh why do I have to the stomach flu! She whinged inwardly. When goes back into the bedroom, she sees that both cats have stolen her spot in the bed. “You little rascals that was my spot.” She said humorously. “Well, it’s okay. I guess that means you are here to keep an eye on me.” Ica crawls back into bed and quickly falls asleep to the purring of Nixen and Irish.

***

When Claude gets to the Kingdom Hall, he quickly finds his seat. Ica will be fine. He thinks to himself. But then again…she never gets sick. Maybe I should have stayed home with her. Distracting him from his thoughts, he hears Mattimeo’s voice.

“Hi broder Frollo. Um…where’s sister Frollo?” Claude smiles down at the young boy.
”She isn’t feeling well today. I think she has the stomach bug.”
”Oh…is she throwing up?”
”She is.”
”Yuck.” Claude chuckled.
”It is kind of yucky isn’t it?”
”Yeah…but tell her when you get home that I hope she feels better.”
”I will.”

With that Mattimeo scurry’s back to where his parents are sitting. Not long after that the opening song begins, starting the meeting. While they sing, Kalista, who’s seven months pregnant with baby Mackenzie glances at Claude, subtly trying to get his attention. When he looks back at her she makes a faint gesture. Claude guessed that she is wondering where Ica is. He tries his best to subtly sign with his hand indicating that she was sick. Getting the hint Kalista turns back to singing the opening song.

During the meeting Claude can’t help but worry about his sick wife, but says a quick prayer to help him focus. When the meeting comes to an end, he quickly gathers up his things and heads home. When he gets inside, he quickly heads upstairs to check on Ica. When he opens the door, he finds her fast asleep in the middle of a fur triangle. Roary sleepily lifts his had and gives a squeaky yawn. Relieved, Claude quietly makes his way to the bed. He strokes his wife’s course hair and kissed her forehead gently. She shifts slightly but doesn’t wake up. He smiles down at her. I love you so much…but it’s funny how someone you love so much can scare you. Claude changes into his pyjamas and crawls in bed besides his wife, and listens to her breathe, until he too drifts off to sleep.

The next morning Claude is up early. He rolls over to see that Ica is still sleeping. I’ll let her sleep. She had a rough day yesterday. “Come on boy.” Claude whispered to Roary. Let’s go for a walk. Just don’t wake mummy.” The golden puppy hops out of bed, shakes himself and stretches and races down the stairs yipping excitedly. Claude shook his head. “Crazy dog.” He chuckled.

About twenty minutes after Claude and Roary left, Ica wakes up groggy and thirsty. She looks around and finds a fresh glass of water on her night stand. She smile to herself. What would I do with out you, my wily old man. She thought. Hmm it’s quiet and Roary isn’t here. He must be out taking him for a walk. She grabs her phone off the night stand and sees she has text messages from Trish and Jo.

Mummy Bears: Hey hon, Claude said you weren’t feeling well. Hope you feel better. Let me know how you are in the morning.

Mom Watt-Moté: Ditto

She text them back.

Ica: I was throwing up yesterday. Still a little nauseous this morning. Might have the stomach flu.

Thirst getting the best of her she finally takes a sip of water. The cool liquid glides down her throat giving it the much needed relief it demanded. Looking around, she sees the un opened saltines sitting on the nightstand. She opens the package and gingerly bites a piece off and chews. As soon as she swallows though, it threatens to come right back up. “Ugh! Why am I still so nauseous!” She cried allowed. She flopped back down on her pillow. Just then she hears her phone vibrate. It’s Kalista.

”Hello?” Ica said, fighting another wave of nausea.
”Hey, you okay? Claude said you were sick?” Asked Kalista concerned.

“Yeah, I guess I supposedly have the stomach flu. Yesterday I woke up nauseous and I was throwing up. I felt a little better, so I decided to go to work, but then when I got home, I still felt terrible and then I started throwing up again. And this morning I am still nauseous.” Explained Ica.

”Hmm. You know.” Said Kalista. “That sounded like me seven months ago when I found out I was pregnant with Mackenzie. Are you sure you aren’t, you know… pregnant?” I mean Claude is well…let’s face it he’s no spring chicken. But come on, I know you guys still have sex right?” Asked Kalista humorously.

”Yeah, we do.” Said Ica giggling.
“ Sooo it could happen.” Stated Kalista. Ica is silent for a minute.

“Well…I actually haven’t gotten my period yet…so maybe?” Said Ica, not sure what to make of all of this.

”Ooo! You should totally take a test!” Said Kalista excited. “Wouldn’t it be cool if we were pregnant together. We would be besties with babies!” Ica laughed out loud.

”Yeah I guess that would be pretty neat.”

“So come on, go take a test!” Kalista urged. “Is Claude there?”
”No he went to go walk the dog.”

”Perfect! Now you can- wait, you don’t have a pregnancy test do you?” Said Kalista, excitement faltering.

”Nope.” Said Ica, matter of fact.

”Hmm, okay. We’ll do you feel well enough to go get one? I mean I would get it for you but I am on my way to work. Can your mum or Jo get it for you?”

”I mean, they are both at work too, but I could ask them.” Said Ica.
”Actually scratch that. How about I take you to the OBGYN tomorrow? I’m off.”
”Okay, I can do that. I’ll call right after we hang up.” Said Ica.
”Awesome! This is going to be great! I’m going to be an auntie!” Kalista sang.

“You don’t even know if I’m pregnant yet silly!” Laughed Ica. “If I’m not, I’m afraid you will be so disappointed that Claude and I will have no choice but to actually start trying!” Ica laughed even harder and Kalista joined in.

“Well it wouldn’t be so bad but like I said, at Claude’s age it gets harder to get it-

“Kalistaa!” Cried Ica cutting her off. By this time she can barely breathe she’s laughing so hard. “Stop making fun of my husband!”

”Okay okay.” Kalista breathed, calming her laughter. “I’m sorry.”
”Besides…he has no trouble in that department.” Added Ica slyly.
”Well then, maybe there is hope after all.” She said dramatically.
”Alright, I’m gonna call the doctor now. I’ll let you know what time. Okay?”
”Okay, bye.”
”Bye.”

Ica shakes her head smiling, then dials the OGBYN. It rings three times then the receptionist answers. “Sharla Physicians, OBGYN department, how may I help you?”

”Hi, my name’s Ica Frollo, I would like to make an appointment with Dr. Addison Deluca for tomorrow morning.”

”Sure, give me one moment.” There is a slight pause. “And what will be the nature of your visit?”
”Um…I think I’m pregnant…so I want to get an examination..for that.” Said Ica a little unsure.
”Certainly.” Ica hears clicks from a mouse and typing. “How does 10:00 sound?”
”That’s perfect. Thank you.”
”Of course, have a good day.”
”You too.”

After she hangs up, Ica immediately text Kalista.
Ica: Tomorrow 10:00.
Kalista: Can’t wait.😆

Claude returns home with Roary to find Ica still in bed, watching tele. “Hello mon amour, how are you feeling?” He bends down to kiss her on the top of the head.

”Oh, I’m feeling a little better. I was nauseous when I first woke up but it’s passed. I’m actually going to go to the doctor tomorrow…um..just to make sure everything’s okay.” She said, not wanting to tell him the reason behind the visit.

“Do you want me to take you?” He asked.

”No! I mean, no. Kalista offered. Besides don’t you have to take the groups out tomorrow?” Claude pursed his lips.

”Oh, yes that’s right. I can have Doug cover for me I’m sure he won’t mi-
“Claude. Take the groups out.” Said Ica. “Kalista is taking me. I’ll be fine. Really.” She smiled at him.
”Oh alright. If I didn’t know any better I’d think you don’t want me around.” He said chuckling.

”Stop it. You know I love you.” She reached up and caressed the side of his slender face. He sighed and leaned into the palm of her hand. “I would be so lost with out.” She said softly. “I’m actually still pretty drained. All that throwing up you know.” She smiled weakly at him.

”Okay, well you rest, and I’ll be here if you need me.”
”Thank you. He gives her one last kiss on the forehead and goes downstairs.

***

The next morning, Claude once again is up early. “Mon amour?” He whispered. “I’m leaving for service now. I hope your appointment goes well. Ica drowsily opens one hazel eye and gives him a sleepy smile.

”Okay, have a good morning. I love you.”
”I love you too.”

After snoozing for another half hour, Ica finally gets up and get’s dressed. Hmm I don’t feel as bad today. Maybe I’m not pregnant. Maybe it was just the stomach flu. Ica thought, a little bit disappointed. Not long after Kalista is pulling up in front of the house and honking the horn. Ica grabs her pack and keys and heads out the door.

”Hey! So you excited?”
”I am…” Said Ica, a tad unsure.
”You don’t sound it.” Said Kalista turning to look at her friend.
”So, I feel better this morning.” Said Ica.
”Uh okay.And that’s bad?” Asked Kalista confused.
”It’s just that, what if it was just the stomach flu and I’m not pregnant?”
”Wait…are you…you want to be pregnant don’t you!” Ica looked down suddenly shy.

“Well, it’s just that after we talked, it made me think of how it would nice to have a little baby around. And it would be pretty cool to be besties with babies.” Said Ica grinning.

”How do you think Claude will feel? If you end up being pregnant.” Ica smiled at herself.
”To be honest, I think he’d be thrilled.”
”You do?” Said Kalista, a tad surprised.

“I do. I could kind of tell that he’s always wanted a family. I think because he lost his family so young. And the way he talks about his little brother Clement, the way he adored him and took care of him. I think he would make a wonderful father.”

“Wow. I never thought of it from that point of view.” Said Kalista looking thoughtful.

Pretty soon, the two best friends are pulling into the parking lot of the doctors office. Ica’s feels butterflies filling her stomach. Kalista notices this. “Ica it will be fine.” Ica gives a faint smile and nods. When they enter the lobby, Kalista takes a seat in one if the chairs and Ica heads to the check out window.

”Hi, I have a 10:00 appointment with Dr. Deluca.” Said Ica.
”Certainly.” Said the receptionist. She makes a few clicks with the mouse. “Ica?”
”Yes.”

”Perfect.” She hands Aida a clipboard with two sheets of paper. “Have a seat and fill these out. Then someone will call you in shortly.”

”Okay, thanks.” Said Ica. She heads to the waiting area and takes a seat next Kalista. “So, I was thinking…if I’m not pregnant…do you think it will be a bad thing to start trying?” Said Ica, timidly.

“Of course not! By all means do try.” Said Kalista encouragingly.

“You really want me pregnant don’t you!” Said Ica laughing.

”Yeah. Not gonna lie. I do. Besides, Claude doesn’t have long. You need to give him a family.” She said slyly.

”Alright! Keep it up!” Ica huffed humorously. “And I won’t get pregnant.”
” What? And deprive Claude?” Ica sighed and shook her head.

“What am I going to do with you?”

Just then, the door swings open. “Ica?” Ica’s heart immediately drops to the pit of her stomach.

“Don’t worry. I’ll be right here when you’re done. Pregnant or not pregnant.” Kalista said giving her a warm smile. Ica gave a nod and followed after the tech.

“My name’s Beth. How are you today?” She asked warmly.
“I’m good.” Squeaked Ida.

“Good. Okay, so I’ll have you step on the scale and I’ll take your weight.” Said the tech. Ica steps out of her shoes and steps onto the scale. Beth fiddled quickly with the weights. “Alright 92lbs. So follow me, and we will put you in room three. If you want to change into the gown, Dr. Manthis will be in shortly.”

”Okay. Thank you.” Said Ica. Ica quickly changes into the gown and sits patiently, although her nerves are getting the best of her. Soon there is a knock on the door followed by Dr. Man this entertaining the room.

”Hey there.” Said Dr. Deluca sunnily. “How are you?”

“Oh I’m doing well.” Said Ica, trying to keep her voice level.

“Good!” So you’re here to find out f your pregnant I see!” Ica nodded shyly. “Okay, so what made you think that you may be pregnant?”

“Well the last two days, I’ve been feeling nauseous and throwing up. My husband thought it may be the stomach flu…but then I was talking to my best friend and she said it sounded like morning sickness.” Dr. Deluca nodded.

”And is your period late?” She asked.
”Well, I normally get it the third week of the month, and it hasn’t come yet.” Said Ica.
”Alright, and when was the last time you were sexually active?”
”Um…about two weeks ago.” Said Ica

“Okay. Good. So I’ll give you the test right now, and it shouldn’t be long and then you’ll have your results.” After Dr. Deluca administers the test, she leaves the room to run the results. She heard her phone vibrate and reaches to check it.

Kalista: How’s it going?
Ica: Okay…she just gave me the test. Now I have to wait. NERVOUS!! 😵‍💫
Kalista: Everything will be fine.
Ica: I know.

Soon Dr. Deluca is back with the results and Ica’s heart hammers in her chest. “Well Mrs. Frollo, congratulations. You are indeed pregnant.” Said Dr. Manthis handing her the results. Ica sits there stairing at the piece of paper. Then a grin creeps across her face.

”I’m pregnant.” She said softly. “I’m going to be a mum.” She smiles up at Dr. Deluca who nods and smiles back. “Thank you!”

”You are very welcome. Now this means I will be seeing a lot more of you. So make sure you take good care of yourself and that little one.” Said Dr. Deluca.

”Oh I will! Thank you!”

”Alright, now go get checked out and I’ll see you soon.” With that Ica gleefully makes her way to the check out counter. After making her next appointment she, walks out into the lobby with Kalista anxiously waiting to hear the news.

”So?” Kalista probed. Ica looks down at the floor. “Oh no…Ica are you not…”

“Well I’m sorry to say that…” started Ica. “You will have to deal with one more rugrat because you’re going to be an auntie!”

”WHAT?! Cried Kalista. You’re pregnant?!”
”I am! We will have bestie babies!”

Kalista stood up and hugged Ica as tight as her pregnant belly would let her. “Ooo I’m so excited for you! I told you I had a feeling.” Ica laughed.

“And your feeling was right!”

Description

“BLECH!” Claude awoke to the sound of his wife throwing up in the bathroom.
”Ica?” Called Claude. “Ica are you alright?”

”BLEACH!” Worried, Claude gets out of bed and walks in to the bathroom to find Ica head down in the toilet, her thin hands grasping the sides. He walks over to kneel down beside her and places a hand gently on her back.

”Ica mon amour, are you okay?” Ica turns to look at him over her shoulder.
”I woke up feeling a bit- BLECH!” Another wretch seizes Ica’s body. “Nauseous.” She finished.

All Claude can do is comfort his wife until her wave of nausea passes. When her purging has ceased, Ica tries to stand up, but wobbles a little bit. Claude quickly reaches out to support her. “Here, I’ve got you.” He said steadying her. “Are you okay?” He asked, his dark gray eyes full of concern.

”I-I think so.” I just felt a little nauseous, that’s all. Maybe something I ate.” She said weakly.
”Okay, well maybe you shouldn’t go to work today.” Said Claude.
“No, I’ll be fine. Promise. I feel better already. I can work.”

Claude gives his wife a half hearted smile. “Well alright. Just promise me, if you start to feel sick again, come home.” He kissed her on the forehead. She gave him a wan smile.

”I will.”

***

When Ica returns home from work, she still isn’t feeling quite up to par. When she walks into the living room she sees Claude on the couch with their golden retriever puppy Roary and two cats, Irish and Nixen, studying for the meeting tonight. When he sees her, he smiles but then frowns slightly. “Ica…are you alright? You look a little pale.”

”Just feeling a little off but I should be…” All of a sudden the wave of nausea that Ica had this morning comes back to her. She drops her bag and dashes for the toilet. Once again Claude hears her vomiting. When she comes back Claude is immediately at her side.

”Alright, that’s it. You are going straight upstairs to rest. I’m worried you might have the stomach flu.” Without complaining Ica does as her husband says and heads upstairs. “I’ll be up in a minute to bring you some ginger ale and saltines.” She nods, and continues up the stairs. When she gets to her room she changes out of her work clothes and into her pyjamas.

Why did I have to get the stomach flu. I hate throwing up. Ica thought. She climbs into bed and lays back on her pillow. Roary hops up on the bed with her and curls up next to her. Not long after, Claude’s entering their bedroom with a cup of ginger ale in one hand and a package of saltines in the other. He sets the crackers down on the nightstand and hands Ica the class. She takes a tiny sip. “I’m sorry.” She said. Claude raised his eyebrows.

“For what?”
”For going to work. I should have just stayed home like you said.”

“Fille folle.” He said softly sitting down on the bed beside her. “You don’t have to apologise. It just means you are a hard worker. I love that about you. Even though you do over do it a bit at times.” Ica huffed a laugh. “But right now you need your rest mon amour. Now, immediately going to get ready to go to the meeting…unless you want me to stay here with you?”

”No, go to the meeting, I’ll be okay here. I have Roary here to take care of me.” The golden puppy raises his head. Claude reaches over and pats him on the head, making his fluffy tail thump on the bed.

”Well alright. Roary, take good care of my crazy girl while I’m gone okay?” Roary gives a soft yip. “Good boy.” As Claude gets dressed for the meeting, Ica’s nausea rears it’s ugly head by tries to push it away as not to worry Claude. When he’s done he walks over to the beside to bend down to give her a kiss, but she turns her head to the side so that he kissed her cheek. Claude gives her a quizzical look. Ica giggles.

“We’ll, it’s not that I don’t want to kiss you, but if I do have the stomach flu, I don’t want you to catch it. Plus I have puke breath.” Claude grinned.

”Well, I don’t care if you had the plague, I would still kiss you if it were up to me. But I understand. Instead he leans in to rub noses with her. “I love you. I’ll be back.”

”I love you too. Give everyone my love.” He nods and turns to leave the bedroom. When she hears the car drive off, the nausea is just to intense and once again she’s running to the toilet. “BLECH.” Why oh why do I have to the stomach flu! She whinged inwardly. When goes back into the bedroom, she sees that both cats have stolen her spot in the bed. “You little rascals that was my spot.” She said humorously. “Well, it’s okay. I guess that means you are here to keep an eye on me.” Ica crawls back into bed and quickly falls asleep to the purring of Nixen and Irish.

***

When Claude gets to the Kingdom Hall, he quickly finds his seat. Ica will be fine. He thinks to himself. But then again…she never gets sick. Maybe I should have stayed home with her. Distracting him from his thoughts, he hears Mattimeo’s voice.

“Hi broder Frollo. Um…where’s sister Frollo?” Claude smiles down at the young boy.
”She isn’t feeling well today. I think she has the stomach bug.”
”Oh…is she throwing up?”
”She is.”
”Yuck.” Claude chuckled.
”It is kind of yucky isn’t it?”
”Yeah…but tell her when you get home that I hope she feels better.”
”I will.”

With that Mattimeo scurry’s back to where his parents are sitting. Not long after that the opening song begins, starting the meeting. While they sing, Kalista, who’s seven months pregnant with baby Mackenzie glances at Claude, subtly trying to get his attention. When he looks back at her she makes a faint gesture. Claude guessed that she is wondering where Ica is. He tries his best to subtly sign with his hand indicating that she was sick. Getting the hint Kalista turns back to singing the opening song.

During the meeting Claude can’t help but worry about his sick wife, but says a quick prayer to help him focus. When the meeting comes to an end, he quickly gathers up his things and heads home. When he gets inside, he quickly heads upstairs to check on Ica. When he opens the door, he finds her fast asleep in the middle of a fur triangle. Roary sleepily lifts his had and gives a squeaky yawn. Relieved, Claude quietly makes his way to the bed. He strokes his wife’s course hair and kissed her forehead gently. She shifts slightly but doesn’t wake up. He smiles down at her. I love you so much…but it’s funny how someone you love so much can scare you. Claude changes into his pyjamas and crawls in bed besides his wife, and listens to her breathe, until he too drifts off to sleep.

The next morning Claude is up early. He rolls over to see that Ica is still sleeping. I’ll let her sleep. She had a rough day yesterday. “Come on boy.” Claude whispered to Roary. Let’s go for a walk. Just don’t wake mummy.” The golden puppy hops out of bed, shakes himself and stretches and races down the stairs yipping excitedly. Claude shook his head. “Crazy dog.” He chuckled.

About twenty minutes after Claude and Roary left, Ica wakes up groggy and thirsty. She looks around and finds a fresh glass of water on her night stand. She smile to herself. What would I do with out you, my wily old man. She thought. Hmm it’s quiet and Roary isn’t here. He must be out taking him for a walk. She grabs her phone off the night stand and sees she has text messages from Trish and Jo.

Mummy Bears: Hey hon, Claude said you weren’t feeling well. Hope you feel better. Let me know how you are in the morning.

Mom Watt-Moté: Ditto

She text them back.

Ica: I was throwing up yesterday. Still a little nauseous this morning. Might have the stomach flu.

Thirst getting the best of her she finally takes a sip of water. The cool liquid glides down her throat giving it the much needed relief it demanded. Looking around, she sees the un opened saltines sitting on the nightstand. She opens the package and gingerly bites a piece off and chews. As soon as she swallows though, it threatens to come right back up. “Ugh! Why am I still so nauseous!” She cried allowed. She flopped back down on her pillow. Just then she hears her phone vibrate. It’s Kalista.

”Hello?” Ica said, fighting another wave of nausea.
”Hey, you okay? Claude said you were sick?” Asked Kalista concerned.

“Yeah, I guess I supposedly have the stomach flu. Yesterday I woke up nauseous and I was throwing up. I felt a little better, so I decided to go to work, but then when I got home, I still felt terrible and then I started throwing up again. And this morning I am still nauseous.” Explained Ica.

”Hmm. You know.” Said Kalista. “That sounded like me seven months ago when I found out I was pregnant with Mackenzie. Are you sure you aren’t, you know… pregnant?” I mean Claude is well…let’s face it he’s no spring chicken. But come on, I know you guys still have sex right?” Asked Kalista humorously.

”Yeah, we do.” Said Ica giggling.
“ Sooo it could happen.” Stated Kalista. Ica is silent for a minute.

“Well…I actually haven’t gotten my period yet…so maybe?” Said Ica, not sure what to make of all of this.

”Ooo! You should totally take a test!” Said Kalista excited. “Wouldn’t it be cool if we were pregnant together. We would be besties with babies!” Ica laughed out loud.

”Yeah I guess that would be pretty neat.”

“So come on, go take a test!” Kalista urged. “Is Claude there?”
”No he went to go walk the dog.”

”Perfect! Now you can- wait, you don’t have a pregnancy test do you?” Said Kalista, excitement faltering.

”Nope.” Said Ica, matter of fact.

”Hmm, okay. We’ll do you feel well enough to go get one? I mean I would get it for you but I am on my way to work. Can your mum or Jo get it for you?”

”I mean, they are both at work too, but I could ask them.” Said Ica.
”Actually scratch that. How about I take you to the OBGYN tomorrow? I’m off.”
”Okay, I can do that. I’ll call right after we hang up.” Said Ica.
”Awesome! This is going to be great! I’m going to be an auntie!” Kalista sang.

“You don’t even know if I’m pregnant yet silly!” Laughed Ica. “If I’m not, I’m afraid you will be so disappointed that Claude and I will have no choice but to actually start trying!” Ica laughed even harder and Kalista joined in.

“Well it wouldn’t be so bad but like I said, at Claude’s age it gets harder to get it-

“Kalistaa!” Cried Ica cutting her off. By this time she can barely breathe she’s laughing so hard. “Stop making fun of my husband!”

”Okay okay.” Kalista breathed, calming her laughter. “I’m sorry.”
”Besides…he has no trouble in that department.” Added Ica slyly.
”Well then, maybe there is hope after all.” She said dramatically.
”Alright, I’m gonna call the doctor now. I’ll let you know what time. Okay?”
”Okay, bye.”
”Bye.”

Ica shakes her head smiling, then dials the OGBYN. It rings three times then the receptionist answers. “Sharla Physicians, OBGYN department, how may I help you?”

”Hi, my name’s Ica Frollo, I would like to make an appointment with Dr. Addison Deluca for tomorrow morning.”

”Sure, give me one moment.” There is a slight pause. “And what will be the nature of your visit?”
”Um…I think I’m pregnant…so I want to get an examination..for that.” Said Ica a little unsure.
”Certainly.” Ica hears clicks from a mouse and typing. “How does 10:00 sound?”
”That’s perfect. Thank you.”
”Of course, have a good day.”
”You too.”

After she hangs up, Ica immediately text Kalista.
Ica: Tomorrow 10:00.
Kalista: Can’t wait.😆

Claude returns home with Roary to find Ica still in bed, watching tele. “Hello mon amour, how are you feeling?” He bends down to kiss her on the top of the head.

”Oh, I’m feeling a little better. I was nauseous when I first woke up but it’s passed. I’m actually going to go to the doctor tomorrow…um..just to make sure everything’s okay.” She said, not wanting to tell him the reason behind the visit.

“Do you want me to take you?” He asked.

”No! I mean, no. Kalista offered. Besides don’t you have to take the groups out tomorrow?” Claude pursed his lips.

”Oh, yes that’s right. I can have Doug cover for me I’m sure he won’t mi-
“Claude. Take the groups out.” Said Ica. “Kalista is taking me. I’ll be fine. Really.” She smiled at him.
”Oh alright. If I didn’t know any better I’d think you don’t want me around.” He said chuckling.

”Stop it. You know I love you.” She reached up and caressed the side of his slender face. He sighed and leaned into the palm of her hand. “I would be so lost with out.” She said softly. “I’m actually still pretty drained. All that throwing up you know.” She smiled weakly at him.

”Okay, well you rest, and I’ll be here if you need me.”
”Thank you. He gives her one last kiss on the forehead and goes downstairs.

***

The next morning, Claude once again is up early. “Mon amour?” He whispered. “I’m leaving for service now. I hope your appointment goes well. Ica drowsily opens one hazel eye and gives him a sleepy smile.

”Okay, have a good morning. I love you.”
”I love you too.”

After snoozing for another half hour, Ica finally gets up and get’s dressed. Hmm I don’t feel as bad today. Maybe I’m not pregnant. Maybe it was just the stomach flu. Ica thought, a little bit disappointed. Not long after Kalista is pulling up in front of the house and honking the horn. Ica grabs her pack and keys and heads out the door.

”Hey! So you excited?”
”I am…” Said Ica, a tad unsure.
”You don’t sound it.” Said Kalista turning to look at her friend.
”So, I feel better this morning.” Said Ica.
”Uh okay.And that’s bad?” Asked Kalista confused.
”It’s just that, what if it was just the stomach flu and I’m not pregnant?”
”Wait…are you…you want to be pregnant don’t you!” Ica looked down suddenly shy.

“Well, it’s just that after we talked, it made me think of how it would nice to have a little baby around. And it would be pretty cool to be besties with babies.” Said Ica grinning.

”How do you think Claude will feel? If you end up being pregnant.” Ica smiled at herself.
”To be honest, I think he’d be thrilled.”
”You do?” Said Kalista, a tad surprised.

“I do. I could kind of tell that he’s always wanted a family. I think because he lost his family so young. And the way he talks about his little brother Clement, the way he adored him and took care of him. I think he would make a wonderful father.”

“Wow. I never thought of it from that point of view.” Said Kalista looking thoughtful.

Pretty soon, the two best friends are pulling into the parking lot of the doctors office. Ica’s feels butterflies filling her stomach. Kalista notices this. “Ica it will be fine.” Ica gives a faint smile and nods. When they enter the lobby, Kalista takes a seat in one if the chairs and Ica heads to the check out window.

”Hi, I have a 10:00 appointment with Dr. Deluca.” Said Ica.
”Certainly.” Said the receptionist. She makes a few clicks with the mouse. “Ica?”
”Yes.”

”Perfect.” She hands Aida a clipboard with two sheets of paper. “Have a seat and fill these out. Then someone will call you in shortly.”

”Okay, thanks.” Said Ica. She heads to the waiting area and takes a seat next Kalista. “So, I was thinking…if I’m not pregnant…do you think it will be a bad thing to start trying?” Said Ica, timidly.

“Of course not! By all means do try.” Said Kalista encouragingly.

“You really want me pregnant don’t you!” Said Ica laughing.

”Yeah. Not gonna lie. I do. Besides, Claude doesn’t have long. You need to give him a family.” She said slyly.

”Alright! Keep it up!” Ica huffed humorously. “And I won’t get pregnant.”
” What? And deprive Claude?” Ica sighed and shook her head.

“What am I going to do with you?”

Just then, the door swings open. “Ica?” Ica’s heart immediately drops to the pit of her stomach.

“Don’t worry. I’ll be right here when you’re done. Pregnant or not pregnant.” Kalista said giving her a warm smile. Ica gave a nod and followed after the tech.

“My name’s Beth. How are you today?” She asked warmly.
“I’m good.” Squeaked Ida.

“Good. Okay, so I’ll have you step on the scale and I’ll take your weight.” Said the tech. Ica steps out of her shoes and steps onto the scale. Beth fiddled quickly with the weights. “Alright 92lbs. So follow me, and we will put you in room three. If you want to change into the gown, Dr. Manthis will be in shortly.”

”Okay. Thank you.” Said Ica. Ica quickly changes into the gown and sits patiently, although her nerves are getting the best of her. Soon there is a knock on the door followed by Dr. Man this entertaining the room.

”Hey there.” Said Dr. Deluca sunnily. “How are you?”

“Oh I’m doing well.” Said Ica, trying to keep her voice level.

“Good!” So you’re here to find out f your pregnant I see!” Ica nodded shyly. “Okay, so what made you think that you may be pregnant?”

“Well the last two days, I’ve been feeling nauseous and throwing up. My husband thought it may be the stomach flu…but then I was talking to my best friend and she said it sounded like morning sickness.” Dr. Deluca nodded.

”And is your period late?” She asked.
”Well, I normally get it the third week of the month, and it hasn’t come yet.” Said Ica.
”Alright, and when was the last time you were sexually active?”
”Um…about two weeks ago.” Said Ica

“Okay. Good. So I’ll give you the test right now, and it shouldn’t be long and then you’ll have your results.” After Dr. Deluca administers the test, she leaves the room to run the results. She heard her phone vibrate and reaches to check it.

Kalista: How’s it going?
Ica: Okay…she just gave me the test. Now I have to wait. NERVOUS!! 😵‍💫
Kalista: Everything will be fine.
Ica: I know.

Soon Dr. Deluca is back with the results and Ica’s heart hammers in her chest. “Well Mrs. Frollo, congratulations. You are indeed pregnant.” Said Dr. Manthis handing her the results. Ica sits there stairing at the piece of paper. Then a grin creeps across her face.

”I’m pregnant.” She said softly. “I’m going to be a mum.” She smiles up at Dr. Deluca who nods and smiles back. “Thank you!”

”You are very welcome. Now this means I will be seeing a lot more of you. So make sure you take good care of yourself and that little one.” Said Dr. Deluca.

”Oh I will! Thank you!”

”Alright, now go get checked out and I’ll see you soon.” With that Ica gleefully makes her way to the check out counter. After making her next appointment she, walks out into the lobby with Kalista anxiously waiting to hear the news.

”So?” Kalista probed. Ica looks down at the floor. “Oh no…Ica are you not…”

“Well I’m sorry to say that…” started Ica. “You will have to deal with one more rugrat because you’re going to be an auntie!”

”WHAT?! Cried Kalista. You’re pregnant?!”
”I am! We will have bestie babies!”

Kalista stood up and hugged Ica as tight as her pregnant belly would let her. “Ooo I’m so excited for you! I told you I had a feeling.” Ica laughed.

“And your feeling was right!”