Liam rocks Jane back and forth in his arms. "Shh Jane, it doesn't matter what they think. We will get through this together. And if they don't like this, it's their loss. They don't have to carry the baby, or give birth to it, or care for it when it comes. You do, and I will be with you every step of the way. I take care of my responsibilities. And right now, this baby needs both of us." He lays a hand on the flat surface that for the moment, is Jane's belly. He suspects it won't stay that way for much longer. "How did they react when you told them you were pregnant with Claire?"
"They were happy," Jane replies. "I think because he and I were engaged and he lived here and . . ."
"He was everything I'm not," Liam finishes.
"You're more," Jane says instantly. "Good looking, caring, kind, loving, a good father I'm sure. You've got a great job. . .the most lovely eyes I've ever seen. . ."
Now Liam is the one who is blushing. "Aw shucks, they're nothing special."
The tender moment is interrupted by the pitter patter of little feet, and soon a miniature version Jane appears. "Who is he Mama?"
Jane smiles. "This is Liam. Mama's friend she met on the big boat, remember?"
The little girl nods, a stuffed cat dangling from her left hand. She is a bit shy, so in a low voice, she says "Hi Liam."
God, she was a cutie, just like her mama. He bends down to get to Claire's level. "What's your kitty's name?"
"Merlin," she says in a small voice.
"That's a good name," Liam smiles. "Do you have any more teddies?"
Claire nods, and takes Liam's hand, leading him into her room. "This is Teddy," she says, picking up a brown bear who looked like he had been through the washer more than once. She picks up another stuffed animal, a dog. "This is Cuddles." And a stuffed rabbit is next. "And Mr.Fluffy." She beams as she picks up the last one. "And this is Magoo," she giggles. "He's silly!"
Jane smiles at the interaction between Claire and Liam. Well, at least she liked him.
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