Boy or Girl?

Back at the hotel, Ella lay exhausted on the bed. After drinking a little water, her stomach churned again, and she rushed to the bathroom to throw up. 

Eric stood by, heart aching as he watched her suffer. He wished he could take on the pregnancy for her. 

"They say strong nausea means it's a girl," Eric said with a cheerful smile as he rubbed her back. 

Ella rinsed her mouth and gave him a quizzical look. "Eric, are you going to be one of those people who prefer sons over daughters?" 

"Of course not," Eric replied without hesitation. "Sons, daughters—it's all the same to me."

"Hmph, I thought some people preferred sons!" 

Ella laughed despite herself, her eyes sparkling with joy even though she still felt physically unwell. 

Eric gently tapped her forehead. "I think *you're* the one who wants a son." 

"Eric, don't you dare slander me like that!"