Night Shift

Someone was out all night; someone else wants to know why.

She rolled over and looked at him sleepily. "Where were you last night? I thought you were working days now?"

"I was, uh, covering for Ahmed. His kids are sick, and had to stay home."

He wouldn't look at her, and he was absently fumbling with the buttons of his shirt rather than simply getting undressed. She scooted across the bed and reached up, gently pushing his hands away. She unbuttoned his shirt for him with smooth, gentle motions.

"What's wrong, baby?"

"Nothing," he answered too quickly. "Course not. I guess I just feel bad for Ahmed."

She smiled playfully. "We'll go through that soon, you know." She placed her hands over the small bump in her belly then frowned again. He always rubbed her stomach when she talked about the baby. Now, he just headed for the bathroom.

"Hey, you," she called gently. "Something's going on with you this morning. Talk to me, babe."

He paused, then closed the door, saying, "Be out in a few minutes."

She bit her lip, worried. Why is he acting so weird? Why can't he meet my eyes? ...Why was he out last night? Could there be another woman? Is it because I'm pregnant and not pretty anymore? God, why was he out last night? Tears fell in twin streaks down her cheeks.

But when he emerged from the bathroom, she was completely confused. He was dressed in his finest suit, the one he had worn when he—

He got down on one knee and opened a box. "Happy Valentines, baby!" He smiled shyly. "Sorry; Ahmed bought the ring for me, and I had to pick it up last night. Anyway...will you marry me? All over again?"

The tears started again, but this time, they felt wonderful.

"Yes!" was all she could say.

NOTES: ▶︎

Word Count: 300
Submitted for "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge" 
Prompt: Use the phrase "Where were you last night"