Hunter takes off his shoes by the door before disappearing up to his office. Peni is at the salon for a hair appointment, giving me some free time to speak with my boss. When I first knock on his door, there is no response. I build up the courage and knock a little harder, actually drawing a sound from the door.

“Come on in.”

I open and close the door, waiting for Hunter to speak.

“Hello, Skye. Come take a seat.”

I do as he says. He seems stressed over the case. It must not be going the way he wanted.

“What can I help you with tonight?”

“Can I talk to you about something?”

Worry skitters across his face. He takes off his reading glasses, setting them on the desk.

“Yes. What do you need? Another free day?”

This isn’t going to be easy. Thousands of reactions run through my head. Good and bad.

“Actually, it’s something that wasn’t really planned.”

There is no way to describe the look on his face. Fear. Concern. Confusion.

“Okay. What is it?”

I start fiddling with my hands in my lap.

“I swear I didn’t mean for this to happen. It was an accident.”

Frustration is added onto the list of emotions displayed on his face.

“Just tell me, Skye.”

I continue babbling, nervous and trying to buy myself some time. Maybe if I work him up enough he’ll just blow it off.

“This wasn’t my intention and I promise I won’t tell anybody else.”

He stands up, slamming his hand on the desk.

“JUST SAY IT!”

His harsh tone makes me shrink back into a shell. Now I regret coming up here to tell him.

My voice comes out just above a whisper.

“I’m pregnant.”

“What? I can’t hear you.”

Is he joking or serious? Either way, I clear my throat, raising my voice a little.

“I’m pregnant.”

Realization hits him. His expression softens.

“Oh. I didn’t know you were seeing anybody.”

“I’m not.”

Confusion all over again. He’s not going to understand what I’m saying unless I spell it out for him.

“I’m pregnant with your baby, sir.”