Black Holes: A Fictional Narrative

Charlie sat on the chaise in their suite, feet propped up on a pillow, watching as Bass paced the floor. “Bass, we’ve only been over this a dozen times,” she said, her voice oozing with comforting patience as she ran down his list of bullet points, conveniently written out for her. “You’re going into the field. You’ll be back by dinner, but if you get caught up then you’ll be home no later than lunch tomorrow. Lieutenant Daniels knows exactly where you’ll be and I’m to immediately send him to get you if there’s any problems.” Pulling her blanket further up her stomach she grumbled something under her breath that had Bass stop his pacing to look down at her. “Charlie, we can’t be too careful and I worry about something happening while I’m …show more content…

The man has been in here every week since I arrived. It’s entirely possible that he’s been between my legs more than you at this point,” she nearly yelled, throwing her arms up in frustration, causing Jeremy to collapse into a coughing fit where he stood next to the door. Throwing Jeremy a dirty look, Bass sighed, taking a seat beside her. “Is it horrible that I worry?” he asked, laying a hand on her belly. “Of course not and I love you for it,” Charlie replied softly, reaching out to run a hand over his smooth cheek. “But for both of our sakes, just go,” she begged pulling him down by his lapels for a kiss. “We’re getting married in just a few days, Bass. Shouldn’t you be enjoying your last days of freedom?” Bass kissed her tenderly before pulling away to kiss her belly. “I love you both.” “And we love you,” Charlie replied with a happy smile. “Jeremy, come take this man away and get him drunk. He’s wound tighter than the grandfather clock in the …show more content…

Happiest I’d ever seen him until now,” he said smiling down at her. “Unfortunately, there were complications and both Shelly and their baby girl died during childbirth. He’s never been the same since, Charlie.” Charlie tugged her hands away, wiping away a tear. “Men are such idiots,” she grumbled, shaking her head. Jeremy patted her shoulder. “He’s terrified, Charlie. Try to cut him some slack, okay?” Charlie nodded as she tried to swallow past the lump in her throat. “You’re a good friend, Jeremy. Now, let’s go try to enjoy some of this party while we can.” “Are you sure?” Jeremy asked looking between her and the door wildly, “My water hasn’t even broken, Jeremy. Get me down the stairs and find a bench for me to perch on. It’ll be fine.” Bass was waiting for them at the entrance to the hall, thanking Jeremy and then helping her to a spot already set up for her. Gritting her teeth as she sank down to the padded seat, Charlie sighed as the contraction passed. “Are you alright?” Bass asked, squatting down beside her as he tucked a blanket around her, looking at the sweat on her brow in concern. “I’m fine, Bass,” She said softly, reaching out to stroke his cheek as she thought about what Jeremy had just told