Just yesterday she had supposedly fainted… and today she was already up and about? And all the way over here.
Henrietta knocked on the office door and went inside. The doctor was a woman in her fifties. Her eyes, visible above her mask, seemed gentle.
However, her expression shifted the moment she learned Henrietta had no appointment and was asking about another patient’s private medical information.
“I cannot disclose patient information. Please leave,” the doctor said firmly.
Henrietta didn’t argue. She stood up and said, “I apologize.” Then she walked out.
The doctor was momentarily stunned. Most people in this situation would persist, but this woman had left without a fuss. It was almost as if she had come in just to leave again.
Henrietta returned to where Sabrina was having her check-up. Two hours later, they had all the reports. Sabrina was in good health, aside from slightly elevated blood pressure, which was common for her age.
On the way home, Sabrina, who had never pressured her about having children, seemed to have had a change of heart. Perhaps the diagnosis, though minor, was a stark reminder of her age. It’s that sudden realization that can bring a wave of reflection and a fleeting sense of panic.
“Henrietta,” Sabrina began, “you’re not old, but you’re not young either. And Yosef is even older. He’ll be thirty-two next year.”
Henrietta paused. Thirty-two? That really wasn’t young. She had a good idea of what was coming next, but out of respect for her mother, she listened without interrupting.
“I’m not trying to rush you,” Sabrina continued, “but you two are married now, and you need to start planning. I think you should have a child within the next year or two. At his age, Yosef can’t afford to wait much longer.”
Henrietta nodded obediently. “I understand, Mom.” Then she deftly changed the subject. “But if he’s not in a hurry, you two shouldn’t worry on his behalf.”
“And how do you know he’s not in a hurry? Did he tell you that?” Sabrina countered.
Henrietta fell silent, her cheeks burning. “No.”
How could they possibly discuss something like that?
“Exactly,” Sabrina said with the wisdom of someone who had seen it all. “You two had a whirlwind marriage. He’s a man. If he brought it up, it would seem like he only married you for children, which would make him look… creepy.”
“Huh?” Henrietta was shocked. She never thought she'd hear her mother use the word “creepy.”
“What ‘huh’?” Sabrina said. “It’s true. He’s probably afraid of scaring you.”
“Mom…” Henrietta rubbed her temples.
“So,” Sabrina cut her off, “you should be the one to take the initiative.”
Henrietta’s eyes widened. “Me? Wait, Mom…”
“Yes, you. If the woman brings it up, it doesn’t come across as creepy…”
“Mom, Mom, Mom,” Henrietta interrupted hastily. “I get it, I get it. Okay, let’s not talk about this anymore.”


VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: When Two Winters Met (Henrietta and Yosef)