Marlena Ravello 2.
“You’re pregnant. Congratulations.” I don’t know why I’m surprised. I shouldn’t be in shock considering the months of hormone injections, constant blood work, physical exams, and the uncomfortable insemination. This was the whole point. To hear those two words; You’re pregnant.
Beside me, Etta gasps, her fingers tightening painfully on my hand she’s holding. My brother grunts, drawing his trembling, sobbing wife into his arms and scowling at me and the doctor over her head of dark hair. I roll my eyes while the doctor clears her throat uncomfortably.
Beneath the growly, intimidatingly muscular exterior, a big ol’ heart beats for no one but sweet Etta. He loves me. I’ve always known he does. It wasn’t something we talked about; emotions were a luxury growing up. He showed up for me, every damn time I needed him, especially several years ago when…point is, Mars’ love language is action. Driving me to school. Scheduling dentist and doctor appointments for me and taking me to them. Learning how to cook so we didn’t starve. Sending me money every month like clockwork while he was deployed. Saving my life from thousands of miles away, sending golems on steeds of chrome to keep me safe and fight my demons.
For all of that alone, I would do anything in my power to bring him happiness. But when he met Etta, a side of him he kept guarded emerged and it’s been beautiful to watch her nourish his soul. Etta is…a revelation. A pure heart tortured and wounded by the scum of humanity. Everything she’s been through, the pain and suffering, when anyone else would have succumbed to the darkness, she shines bright. She is the sunshine in my brother’s world. I can never thank her enough for being exactly what he needs, but I can give them a child. The one thing their love is not strong enough to overcome.
“I’d like you to come back next week, we’ll do another blood test.” I nod, having read anything I could get my hands on before I offered up my uterus like a vacation rental. The doctor looks at Mars and Etta. “We’ll want to monitor the hormone levels, make sure they are rising, and perform an internal ultrasound.”
“Ok,” Etta’s voice is warbly. I squeeze her hand still in mine, the emotion in her voice overwhelming. It’s been almost abstract to discuss becoming a surrogate, going through the arduous process. Hearing it confirmed is something entirely different.
I meet my brother’s eyes with a smirk, “You have some inspired swimmers.” He grimaces, making me laugh. “And Etta, those were some eager eggs.” My sister-in-law blushes furiously, her dark complexion pinkening at my teasing.
“Marlena.” I focus on the doctor once more. “Normal activity. Healthy diet. Take care of yourself. The better you feel, the better the baby will too.” She glances up at the happy parents, “It happens, but it’s not common for implantation to be successful on the first try. I’m so very happy for you both. I don’t see any reason to worry, but I’d keep the information to yourselves for the next few weeks,” she cautions.
“We understand,” Etta whispers, happily wiping tears from under her eyes.
Doc gathers her tablet, standing to leave. “See you next week, Marlena. If you have any questions in the meantime, don’t hesitate to call the office.” She leaves and for a few seconds, the silence is like the calm before the storm.
“I’m gonna be a mom!” Etta squeals, instantly slapping a hand over her mouth. “I mean, again. A mom again.” Eyes wide in alarm, she looks up at Mars. “I love Cassie! I didn’t mean—” My brother, ever the wordsmith, bends down and shoves his tongue in Etta’s mouth to stop her rambling. I shake my head at the two of them, slide off the table, and grab my purse.
Etta has nothing to worry about. It’s clear the little girl they took in last year, and will officially adopt soon, owns them both. She’s got most of the Golem Guerillas Motorcycle club wrapped around her itty bitty little chubby finger. And not just the Morgantown chapter, either. The OGs in Squirrel Hill spoil her rotten when they come to visit. Not to mention Etta’s parents and siblings.
There isn’t a doubt in my mind that Etta’s heart is more than big enough for Cassie and the little one currently residing in my womb. With a small smile, I place my hand on my belly as I leave them to it and walk down the hallway to schedule my next appointment.
I can’t imagine doing anything as monumental, as worthwhile, or as incredible as giving Mars and Etta a perfect combination of the two of them to cherish.