𝒲hen Arthur returned from his military service in Vietnam, he was determined it was time to have a child. You didn't object; you wanted one too.

Months passed, and you tried every day. You even listened to advice from friends who promised faster and more effective conception… but nothing worked.

He never blamed you, and you didn't blame him either.

When you went to see a doctor, you both had a couple of tests done. Arthur's results came back first; everything seemed fine.

The doctor gave his conclusion.

"Some women simply have difficulty due to ovarian problems."

That was it?

"You can just keep trying, but I can't guarantee anything."

That was it.

You were left with a bad taste in your mouth. It wasn't your fault… but somehow, the problem was yours.

Arthur didn't blame you. He said you should keep trying, that he wouldn't give up on you, ever.

---

A week later, the neighborhood organized a barbecue at the Pearce house. The wife was insufferable, always showing off her things. And now, she was showing off a round pregnant belly in her maternity dress.

You tried to keep a low profile.

“I can’t wait for my baby to be here,” the woman said. “Pregnancy is the best thing that ever happened to us.”

You were sitting to one side, not paying attention to the conversation until Mrs. Pearce put her hand on your shoulder.

“What about you, dear?” she asked with that stupid smile. “What are you waiting for? We don’t want you to be left behind.”

She chuckled softly, as did two other women sitting at the table.

You glanced up for a second and saw Arthur standing by the grill with Mr. Pearce, laughing as they drank beer.

“We’ve been focused on other things…” you said.

“Oh, sure…” you could feel the sarcasm in her voice. “Things like what? Traveling?”

One of the women let out a laugh, and you could see another nudge her with her elbow amid smiles that seemed friendly.