C.M.
First and foremost, your concern is not him.... NO MATTER WHAT ($$ or anything else). The first main point is to keep in your mind that you will not allow anything that you cannot control to upset you. Try your best to stay calm.. you can cry, sometimes that helps, but put up the fight in your mind to stay strong and not to stress too much.. not to over think.. not to worry. I like to think that destiny is already written by GOD, and everything works out as he plan. He knew the choices you were going to make before you made them....Number one rule to try your very best from being upset, or allowing anyone the benefit to get you upset. Good practice in being mom now, when its "more or less easy".. due to she/he is in the womb.. is to Recognize that she/he feels everything that you feel. They are getting to know YOU at the beginning before ANYONE!
It is time to get down to the nitty gritty and get it out of the way so you can know what to deal with ahead. Its the care of your child that you want to protect, and not allow mischevious (spelling) harm being done. You can't control but you can try to play your cards smart for them. I sure hope you have family and friend support, for I didn't lean on anyone.. and it seems it wasn't smart. But if you don't.. you can lean on me anytime!!!
2nd. I would go to him infront of another family member of his and maybe even your own, and ask if you need to take the necessary steps now to out rule his parental rights.
3rd. Once that decision is made....then act accordingly.
I undoubtly know you are scared... and if it is your first its even more scary. I will be honest from experience 2 times around... it does hurt the heart a bit to see a child go through life without the fathers love or attention or respect..It doesn't begin to hurt until later.. when they are in daycare or school and other kids speak of stories of their dad. However you can never MAKE a person be a dad or mom. And it looks like he is recognizing or idealizing the responsiblity it is going to take from him and it is his own COP OUT way of saying "he's not quite in for it". However on the hindsite.. there are many mothers out there, that has had fathers that died in war, or illness.. and still raised fine Children.
And in the long run you are better off ... leaving him out of the pictures, if on the spot, he decides to COP OUT. If he doesn't then make sure right now you know the steps to take in order to place child support and child visition right when child is born.. I would say depends on your own descretion if you want to include him in your plans ahead.. or not. He's already somewhat trying to claim the baby is not his.. and your not married to him, so you can decide with righteousness on your side.. since you are sacraficing now.. and his is not until later...
Or.. if you really really feel you can give up a child and still stay strong with life.. there is adoption.. Knowing that what kind of life the child will have.
It is a rough road.. depending what kind of support you have, how rough the road actually is. And you are quite the baby yourself.. I feel for you. its tough.
Maybe just make an appoint with Adoption clinic just to discuss.. and see what feelings it brings on.. I bet it doesn't take long for you to know in your gut.. what is right for you and the baby!!!
God already knows what you will do.. you just don't, yet! But he loves you and he loves that baby and he does still love that father and me... But don't think he loves you ANY less!!
Your a smart girl.. you found this site, for help, and I just found this site within this week.. and I am a mother of two and 32!
Sooo much to think about, soo much responsiblity, soo much love and many emotions right now.. but focus and pray for all of you and you will be guided.
Much appreciation to see you here and inquiring is great!
C.