Susan's secret

"Can you keep a secret?"
"Of course!"
"Peter and I have decided to start a family. We're expecting a baby in September."
"That's great news!"
"I had to tell somebody. And you're my very best friend. But keep it up it under wraps for now." "OK. Mum's the word."
She had every intention of keeping her promise. But this was the hardest secret she had ever been entrusted with. And it just got harder and harder to stay quiet. It seemed like every day she came close to blurting it out. They could be in the middle of planning an event for next fall or someone would mention the number of office pregnancies that year -- now up to three, not including Susan's. After two days she found herself fidgeting and looking away during these conversations. After four days she was grinding her teeth during meetings. Her coffee consumption doubled. Exactly a week after Susan had shared her news, the secret could no longer be contained. The department social committee was picking dates for the office picnic.


"Well what about the Saturday after Labor Day. Everybody will be back by then, and the weather is usually nice."
There were murmurs of agreement around the table.
"And we can ask Susan if we can have it at her house again."
"Well -- uh uh uh -- I think uh uh --", she said trying desperately to think of an innocent reason to suggest another location.
Every eye was in her face, which was turning very red.
"Er -- I think they expect -- uh -- I mean plan to -- Susan and Peter might be busy in September."
"Really?"
She nodded. "Uh huh." They weren't going to get any more out of her.
"What-- is Susan pregnant?"
She busied herself with her notepad, trying not to react.
"She is, isn't she?"
"Well, yes." She admitted. "B-b-but it's a secret."
"Not anymore," A gleeful voice whooped.
She sighed, realizing she would have to warn Susan that the cat was out of the bag.


"Susan, I'm sorry. I tried so hard not to let on."
"That's OK, sweetie," Susan said with a hug. "Now everyone knows, and I only had to tell one person. I knew you couldn't keep a secret like this for more than a week. "