Summary

The narrator opens Preserves by explaining that her and her partner are gradually starting to accept that they will be having a baby, Teresita, "ahead of all our plans" (15). The narrator explains that she will have to turn down her scholarship as a result of the baby. She complains that she also eating a lot, and her partner, Manuel, is "losing energy" and "doesn't seem very happy" (16). Her parents are trying to be there for her, although she can tell that it is difficult. They buy her things and talk to the baby. The narrator wonders why “we can’t just make a small change in the order of events” (17).

While exploring options, she comes across Dr. Weisman. During an initial meeting, he asks about her family and tells her and Manuel what he can offer them. His treatment requires changes in “diet and...