“No I don’t want to, Shane I” Carmen broke down. The tears flowing freely down her cheeks and her limbs gave way, her whole body went soft and she nearly fell onto the floor.

Shane immediately gathered Carmen in her arms, whispering soft encouragement into her girlfriend’s ear.

“It’s gonna be okay, baby, I gotcha Don’t worry, this time it would be just fine.”

Having gone through this routine for two weeks, Shane had been used to the extreme reactions from her baby. She knew that it was very difficult for Carmen, in so many ways that she wouldn’t understand. And all she could do was patiently encouraged her girlfriend.

Shane cursed the heavens for the pain that Carmen was going through. ‘I was the bad person, why didn’t you take me instead.’ Shane asked God. Of course, God didn’t reply as usual, and Shane had to accept whatever was thrown to her.

Because she couldn’t take her girlfriend’s place, she did all she could for her girlfriend. She coaxed and pacified her as best as she could, no matter how much Carmen was acting up or how difficult she got. Shane just patiently stood by her, loving when needed and stern when necessary. She didn’t know if she was going about all this right, never coming in contact with anything of this scale before. But she did all that thought she should. And right now, that would mean as much loving as possible.

“Carmen, you will get through this, I will be here with you.”

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry I am acting like this” Carmen sobbed.

“Ssh peach. I understand, I’ll be here, but you will have to promise me you’ll behave.” Shane coaxed gently.

“I will. Don’t leave me.”

“I am not going anywhere.”

Shane guided Carmen slowly back into the room. Carmen had by now stopped sobbing and a glimpse of the courageous and daring self shown through the frail exterior.

As Shane sat her baby down onto the upright bed, she busied herself fluffing the pillows, pulling the blanket, than pouring a glass of water for her dearest.