12 Inches - Alexis Angel

JOCELYN

“

city was built on the values of family,” Michael says T   his to an approving audience. “And it's gotten us through

the tough times. We will only be great by continuing to cherish our values and holding ourselves to a higher standard!” I look toward the clapping and cheering audience. They’re enthusiastically holding signs that read “Bring Back Our Values” and “Anders - Character Counts.” If they only knew. “I pledge that my second term in office will see the restoration of the old values that made this city the center of the world,” Michael declares. “And that people who flout those values don’t get a free pass while the rest of the city follows the rules and plays fairly.” People nod and clap. Michael looks over in my direction. It’s  just for a second and it’s a fleeting glance but I know he’s checking on me. I bring my hands to clap and give a weak smile. It should be enough to let me continue to blend in the background. Besides, I’m the pregnant wife, remember? I can be excused for having to leave. Or wanting to sit down. Don’t think I haven’t thought about it. i t. Every. Single. Morning.  Just saying that I can’t make it due to the pregnancy. That I