Joseph took the phone from her hand, pulling back the covers as he walked straight to the window.

For several minutes, he spoke into the phone, his words indistinct. Sabrina only caught glimpses of his face, his brow alternately furrowed and then smoothing out. Whatever the subject, it was clear his mood shifted as the conversation carried on.

When he returned, Sabrina looked at him sheepishly. I picked up the wrong call. Do you think Ms. Fairfax misunderstood?

Ive already explained.

After a pause, he met her gaze with an expression she couldnt quite place. Were husband and wife, Sabrina. Waking up in the same bedits only natural.

Right, she murmured with a nod, though the statement carried a weight she didnt want to examine.

Just as she was about to get out of bed, Joseph leaned in unexpectedly, studying her face. Whats this? he asked, his tone shifting to concern.

Alarmed, Sabrina bolted to the mirror. Sure enough, the red splotches that had started on her face had spreadher legs, her arms, even across her torso. She sighed inwardly, realizing it was yesterdays eggs exacting their predictable vengeance.

Its an allergy, she said, tugging down her sleeves as though to hide it. Ive already taken some medicine. Itll clear up in a few days.

Are you sure its nothing serious?

Positive. Dont worryit wont interfere with visiting your grandfather.

She took a steadying breath and added, Just give me a moment to put on some makeup and change. Then we can leave to talk to him about the divorce.

Josephs expression tightened almost imperceptibly. She could tell he was impatient to proceed, eager to untangle himself from the ties that bound them. If divorce was inevitable, Sabrina resolved not to be pitiable or small. She wouldnt beg for his sympathy, let alone his affection. It wasnt in her nature, and her pride would not allow it.

You dont need to see Grandfather right now. Lets go to the hospital and have your allergies looked at first, Joseph said suddenly.

Sabrina blinked, thrown off. Wait. Does that mean your grandfathers already approved?

Joseph shook his head. Not yet. I was just about to tell youGrandfather hasnt been feeling well. Hes decided to move his eightieth birthday celebration up to next week.

Sabrina froze for a moment. Then, a soft understanding crossed her face.

If we talk about divorce now, itll only upset him. Lets wait until the celebration is over, Joseph continued.

Okay, Sabrina agreed readily. Grandfathers always been the one person in the Larkins family whos cherished me. Of course, I want him to have a happy birthday.

And here I was thinking you were implying that the rest of us dont treat you well, Joseph teased, a half-smile playing at his lips.

Sabrina gave him a blank look, unwilling to engage in his baiting.

Her thoughts drifted back to Grandfather. He was the one whod brought her into the Larkins household after her mother passed, welcoming her into a warm and steady home. He had not only provided for her but also ensured she finished school. Without him she didnt want to imagine the loneliness that mightve shaped her life.

You dont have to worry, she assured Joseph. The second his birthday festivities are over, Ill initiate the divorce. I wont delay your plans.

The words came out hurriedly, as if preempting any suspicion that she might use the celebration as an excuse to stall.

Joseph studied her for a moment. You seem awfully eager to get divorced. Could it be youre rushing back to your old lover?

A flicker of annoyance crossed his features as he pinched the bridge of his nose, though he couldnt quite name the source of his irritation.

After breakfast, despite her resistance, Joseph insisted on taking her to the hospital.

In the doctors office, Sabrina perched nervously on the edge of her seat, hyper-aware of Joseph standing beside her. She hadnt expected him to stay.

Do you know what triggered the allergy? the doctor asked.

Yes, Sabrina admitted, flushing slightly. I do.

Then why did you eat it anyway? Look at the state youve gotten yourself intoit mustve been uncomfortable. Did you take anything for it?

She shook her head, embarrassed. Not yet.

The doctor sighed, scribbling on his pad. Ill prescribe some medication. Take it as directed. If your symptoms dont improve, come straight back for an injection.

Sabrina hesitated, her hand moving almost protectively to her abdomen. But she couldnt ask in front of Josephnot without revealing more than she was ready to.

As if sensing her distress, Josephs phone buzzed. He excused himself, stepping out to take the call, leaving her with the opportunity she needed.

The moment he disappeared, Sabrina turned to the doctor. Doctor, Im Im pregnant. Will these medications be safe for the baby?

The doctor set his pen down. Why didnt you mention this earlier? Ill switch the prescription to a topical cream. Avoid oral medication for now.

Oh, thank you! Sabrina exhaled in relief.

When Joseph reentered, his demeanor had shifted againgone was the earlier softness, replaced by a cold edge. They walked silently to the pharmacy window, tension crackling in the space between them. Finally, he broke.

So you lied to me, he said, voice incredulous, low.

Sabrina flinched. I didnt mean to

Then you did it on purpose.

She opened her mouth to respond but fell silent.

Dont worry, I understand, she said after a moment, her tone resigned. Well go our separate ways soon enough. No need for you to feel burdened by me any longer.

Josephs jaw tightened, but then he said something that startled her. Two years of trouble. Whats one more week?

By the time theyd picked up the medication, Josephs sharp gaze caught the difference. The doctor prescribed oral medication. How did this become a cream?

Sabrina froze. Too attentive. Too observant.

Oh, the cream works fine, she said, sidestepping the question.

Your allergies are severe, Joseph countered, his brow furrowing. Topicals take longer. Oral meds are more effective. And with Grandfathers birthday so closewe cant risk those spots lingering.

Dont worry, Sabrina promised, growing desperate. Itll clear up in time. I wont embarrass you.

But Joseph wasnt convinced. He started back toward the doctors office. No. Oral meds are better. If this doesnt work, youll end up needing injections anyway.

Heart sinking, Sabrina blurted, Joseph, wait! I She grasped at an excuse. The truth is, I switched it. My stomachs been upset lately, and oral medication isnt ideal. The creams slower, but its safer.

That explanation finally slowed him, though he still looked skeptical. Fine, he muttered, stepping away.

Back in the car, Sabrina applied the cream to her arms and legs as he drove. But when she struggled to reach the spots on the back of her neck, Joseph spoke up.

Youd rather suffer in silence than ask for my help? he chided, glancing at her in the rearview mirror.

Reluctantly, she handed him the jar. Fine. Here.

His brows raised teasingly. Just like that? No please? No gratitude?

Biting her lip, she gave in to his game, blinking theatrically as she leaned in. Her voice turned sweet, saccharine. Oh, please, darling husband. I cant reach. Could you be my hero just this once?

Joseph chuckled quietly, taking the cream from her hand. What choice did she have but to let him? For now, shed play along.