New Plan

“What’s the plan? What do you want to do tonight?” asked Mark.

Allie thought for a minute while Jack waited patiently. “How about,” she finally said, “you run out to the video store and rent us The Princess Bride.”

“Again?”

“I love that movie. And on your way home you can pick up a bucket of chicken. And a carton of chocolate chip ice cream. Then we lean back on the couch, put up our feet, and enjoy a peaceful, pleasant evening. Food, film, and just you and me.” Allie gave him her cutest, pleading look.

“That was the plan last night wasn't it?” whined Mark. “Or close to it”

“I’m sorry, sweetie. I’m just tired. But OK, have you got a better idea?”

“I don’t know. What about having Jack and Sue come over. I could ask them to pick up the chicken and ice cream on the way, and then we could play cards. Pitch or Hearts or whatever you want.”

Allie scrunched her face a bit as though she didn’t like that idea.

“Hey, You know I love cuddling with you, babe, but we need to liven things up a little around here. You’ve been sitting around too much.”

Mark moved to the shelf and turned on the stereo. Then taking her hand he drew Allie off the couch and gently swayed her to the slow music.

At first Allie smiled, before her face gradually shifted to one of definite displeasure.

“Oh my god,” she mumbled.

“OK, I get it. No dancing.” Mark kissed Allie’s cheek and said, “I’ll go get the movie and dinner.”

She looked him in the eye and moved her hands to her belly.

“New plan, Mark. I just had a contraction.“