Conscience ***

Ben stared pensively out of the window at the overcast sky. He was lying in his comfortable bed. He looked around at the well furnished condominium. He had come a long way. His parents had been rubber tappers, who slaved all day long to make ends meet. They had struggled to give him an education. And Ben had done well. He too had done odd jobs part time to support the family. Through sheer hard work he had worked his way through school and university. And out in the cruel world, his grit and determination had pushed him into the top echelons of the corporate world. He was a somebody now. He had a nice bungalow in KL, and this condominium here in Manila, where he stayed whenever he visited on business, which was often. A few years ago, he had found his wife, Jude, a beautiful former model.

Ben sensed a movement beside him. She rolled over, stretched and yawned.
“I got to leave in a few minutes.” Ben looked at her.
“Ok, let me get you a coffee.” She started to get up.
“No, no. I had my coffee. You rest. I’ll get going now.”
“When will you be back ?” She always made him feel wanted. Ben enjoyed being with her. She was so considerate. And yet undemanding. He smiled at her, and patted her cheeks.

***

Jude was waiting for him as he came back from work. It was late, but she looked so fresh and pretty. Ben was mildly surprised that she had stayed up.
“Ben, come on, get into some comfortable clothes and join me.” She held out her hand. Ben looked at her. This was unusual.

As he sank into the soft sofa beside her, she moved over and leaned on him.
“What’s up? You are so cheerful and glowing!”
“Ben. I have some good news.” She paused. “Ben - you’re going to be a father.” She took his hand and put it on her belly.

The emotions washed over Ben in waves. “My God. That’s astounding. I'm lost for words. Thank you. I love you Jude.” They hugged each other in joy.

***
Ben lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. His conscience was shaken badly. He had been frolicking with Marie in Manila while his wife was here, carrying his child. He had to break off with Marie. He had to find a way. And he must come clean. He came to a conclusion. He would confess to Jude in the morning. He would beg her forgiveness.

***
Jude lay on her side. She could sense Ben still awake. She couldn’t bring herself to face him now. Somehow she had managed to break the news of the baby to him. But now, she trembled as she thought about it. Should she confront him now ? How would he react ? How will he take it ? A tear formed and rolled down her cheeks. Then, suddenly, she knew the answer. She had to do it. She would talk to him in the morning. She had to tell Ben. That the child was not his.