He refused to marry his pregnant girlfriend. His mother backed him, but his father stood up for the unborn child.
Dad, Ive got something to tell you. The girl next doorEmilyshes pregnant. Its mine, said James, barely stepping through the door.
His father, Harold, paused for a moment before replying calmly, Well, then marry her.
Are you mad? Im still young. Its not the right time to settle down, and besides, we werent even properly together
Really? his father replied with a cold smirk. So you were man enough to chase after a girl, but when it comes to owning up, suddenly youre just a boy. Wonderful. Without another word, he called out loudly, Margaret! Come here!
Margaret entered the kitchen, drying her hands on her apron. What is it?
Listen to this. Our son has got a girl pregnant and now he refuses to marry her. Emily, the neighbour’s daughter. And now he wants to hide, behave like a coward.
Margaret didnt seem the least bit shocked. Her face hardened. And hes right. Why drag any girl who turns up into our home? Girls these days know what theyre doing: they find a lad with a bit of money, get pregnant, and then demand a wedding. Next thing, the childs not even his. He should get a test done. And besides, James is still young. Hes a man; temptation is tough to resist. But were not obliged to bring up someone elses child.
Harold drew a deep breath and muttered, And what if it is his child?
So what if it is? Are we required to take that on? Tell him to have the test done, then well know.
She turned and disappeared back into the kitchen, leaving Harold alone with their son.
I was young once too, you know, Harold began. Loved someone, but married another. Not because I wanted to, but because it was the right thing to do. Being a man is about more than desire its about choices and consequences. Your mum was expecting. I didnt know if I could make it work, but I knew this: the child wasnt to blame. My blood, my conscience. And you know something, James? I never regretted staying not once.
Three months went by. The DNA test result was crystal clear: there was a 99.9% chance that James was the father of Emilys child.
So what? snorted Margaret as Harold placed the paper in front of her. So hes the father. That doesnt mean Emilys moving in. Shes not coming into this house. I mean it!
James sat quietly, avoiding his fathers gazehis face made it clear hed chosen his mothers side. Jaw clenched, he stayed silent.
Harold slowly got up from the table.
Well, now youve decided, you can hear my decision too.
His voice was low, but steady.
As long as Ive a breath left, my grandchild will want for nothing. Ill buy a plot, build a house, and everything Ive worked for will go to himmy blood. You two are on your own now. I refuse to be part of this shame. James, from today youre no longer my son. Everything I own is for that child. You wont see a penny from me.
Margaret exploded. Have you gone mad? Youre going to cut off your own son?
Harold didnt say a word. He simply turned and left, ignoring her shouting and insults. James remained there, stock still, barely able to believe what his father had said. But he knew one thing for certain: if Harold said it, hed do it.
He Refused to Marry His Pregnant Girlfriend: Mum Backs Him While Dad Stands Up for the Future Baby
