The news of Avery pregnancy filled their home with a new sense of hope and joy. Avery and Ryan sat together in their living room that evening, a cozy blanket wrapped around both of them, Sunny lying contentedly at their feet. The golden retriever occasionally wagged her tail, sensing the positive energy radiating from her humans.
“I still can’t believe it,” Avery said softly, resting her head on Ryan’s shoulder. “After everything we’ve been through, this feels… surreal.”
Ryan gently laced his fingers through hers, a warm smile spreading across his face. “I know, Aves. But this time, I just have a feeling. Everything’s going to be alright. We’ve got this.”
She looked up at him, her gray eyes glistening with a mix of joy and nervousness. “You really think so?”
Ryan leaned down and kissed her forehead. “I know so. And hey, we’re not doing this alone. We’ve got each other—and Sunny, of course,” he added, chuckling.
Sunny barked softly at the mention of her name, earning a laugh from both of them.
Despite their excitement, Avery and Ryan made a pact to keep the pregnancy a secret for now.
“It’s not that I don’t want to tell everyone,” Avery said as they prepared dinner together that night. “I just feel like we need to protect this—for us—until we’re more certain.”
“I get it,” Ryan said, stirring the pasta sauce. “And honestly, I think it’s smart. We don’t need the whole world knowing yet. Let’s enjoy this, just the two of us—for now.”
She smiled, feeling reassured by his understanding.
The following weekend, Avery decided they couldn’t keep their happiness entirely to themselves. She called Janice, her best friend, and invited her over for dinner, explaining that she had “big news” to share.
Janice’s excitement was palpable even over the phone. “Big news? Don’t tease me like this, Aves! I’ll be there at seven sharp!”
As for Sunny, Avery and Ryan decided to include her in the celebration in their own way.
“Let’s get her a little treat,” Avery suggested while they were at the store picking up ingredients for dinner.
Ryan grinned. “How about a dog cake? If we’re celebrating, she should too.”
By the time Janice arrived, the apartment was filled with the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread and a bubbling lasagna in the oven. The dining table was set simply but beautifully, with soft candles and a small vase of fresh flowers.
Janice burst through the door wearing a bright red dress and holding a bottle of sparkling cider. “I don’t know what we’re celebrating, but it better be good!”
Avery laughed, hugging her best friend. “It’s good, trust me.”
“Hi, Janice,” Ryan said, waving from the kitchen. “Grab a seat. Dinner’s almost ready.”
Janice took one look at the table and let out a whistle. “Wow, you two really went all out. What’s the occasion?”
“Patience,” Avery teased, leading her to the couch. Sunny trotted over, tail wagging, and Janice immediately knelt to give her a belly rub.
Once they were seated around the table, Avery took a deep breath, her hands resting on her stomach instinctively. She glanced at Ryan, who nodded encouragingly.
“Okay, Jan,” Avery began, her voice trembling slightly. “We wanted to share this with you because you’re family to us. And because you’ve been with me through so much…”
Janice leaned forward, her eyes wide with curiosity. “Aves, you’re killing me with suspense!”
Avery smiled, tears welling up in her eyes. “I’m pregnant.”
Janice froze for a moment, her jaw dropping. Then she let out an excited squeal, nearly knocking over her glass of cider as she jumped up to hug Avery.
“OH MY GOD! AVERY!” she exclaimed, her voice full of joy. “This is amazing! I’m so happy for you!”
Ryan grinned, watching the two women hug tightly. “Told you she’d be excited,” he said, winking at Avery.
Janice turned to Ryan, pointing at him. “And you! You better take extra good care of her. Not that you don’t already, but double it.”
“Don’t worry,” Ryan said, raising his hands in mock surrender. “I’m on it.”