Saturday

Joseph woke early. He did not move in case he woke Mary. He lay and watched her for a while as she slept. She was so beautiful. There was not a blemish on her skin, her mouth in sleep was smiling and her look of innocent youth belied the spirit that was within. She moved now and tried to get into a more comfortable position but it was not easy with her swollen stomach. Her hands were wrapped around the mound now, always when at rest she held the baby within as if she could not bear to let it be born, like she wanted it to stay within her womb forever.
Joseph knew this trip would be difficult for her as indeed the last few months had been. He knew she had a strong affection for him, he did not think she was in love with him, they were close and were happy together but she never seemed to be completely at ease with him. Maybe it was the age difference or the incredible circumstances of her becoming pregnant, he did not know. He loved her heart and soul and would protect her and care for her and the baby to his last breath.

When the news of Mary's pregnancy became public his family and friends tried to convince him to leave her and not go through with the betrothal but he refused. What Mary said about the angel visiting her seemed very far fetched and Joseph wasn't sure if he believed her but knew she would not have been with another man or boy. She had lived a very sheltered life and Anne was a good mother and she and Mary were constant companions the love bond between them being very strong. Joseph knew he was a very important part in some plan and was happy to be just that and serve his God and this beautiful young woman by his side.

She stirred now and opened her almost black eyes and looked sleepily at him, he caught watching her intently turned his head away she touched his hand and he looked again. She was smiling at him and said good morning. He took her hand and lifting it to his lips gently held it to his cheek.