‘Only Professor Coleman is allowed in, Miss,’ said the porter, his bulk blocking my entry to the panelled room.

Rex put his hand against my cheek. ‘I’ll be fine,’ he said. ‘What’s the worst that can happen?’ He smiled, a brave smile, but I was dismayed to feel tears welling. I cried so easily.

I let the porter lead me to a wooden bench along the corridor where I sat and imagined Rex standing in front of his peers, unapologetic, intransigent. After only ten minutes the door opened, and as Rex stood there looking at me, grim faced, my waters broke.

*

For those who don’t know how Friday Fictioneers works, this picture (this time supplied by Jennifer Pendergast) is our inspiration for our weekly online writing group hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields. Each story is only about 100 words long, so why not read a few others: click here to read some more or to join in.

And please comment below with any suggestions on mine, or just to show you’ve visited.