CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY SEVEN – COMMUNICATION WINS THE DAY

As Alex left, Karina turned to Miguel. "We really do need to work on our communication." Miguel nodded. "I know. It's just... I've never done this before. Being responsible for someone other than myself. It's terrifying." "You think I'm not terrified?" Karina asked softly. "My whole life is changing. My body, my career, everything." Miguel pulled her closer. "I promise you; we'll face all of it together. No matter what happens." They sat in comfortable silence for a while, both lost in thought. Finally, Karina spoke up. "Miguel?" "Hmm?" "I think... I think I want to talk to HR about my options." Miguel looked at her, surprised. "Options?" Karina nodded. "Yeah, like maybe reducing my hours or working from home some days. I don't want to quit, but I also don't want to burn myself out trying to prove a point." Miguel smiled. "I think that's a great idea. And for what it's worth, I think you're going to be an amazing mother. Career woman or not." Karina felt tears prick her eyes