Avery stood at the entrance of the hospital, her heart racing as Ryan carefully strapped their tiny son, Elliot, into the car seat. The day was perfect—a crisp, sunny morning with a gentle breeze. Sunny, their golden retriever, was at home waiting to meet the newest family member, and Avery could hardly contain her excitement.
“Is it too tight?” Ryan asked, adjusting the straps of the car seat for the tenth time. “I don’t want him to be uncomfortable.”
Avery laughed softly, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Ryan, it’s perfect. You’ve quadruple-checked it. Let’s get him home before he thinks we live here.”
Ryan grinned sheepishly, double-checking the straps one last time before standing up. “Okay, okay. I just want everything to be perfect for our little guy.”
Avery glanced down at Elliot, who was sound asleep, his tiny hands curled into fists. “He’s perfect, so I think we’re off to a good start.”
As they pulled into the driveway, Avery felt a rush of emotion. This was it—the first time they’d bring Elliot into their new home. The house, with its warm tones and woodland-themed nursery, suddenly felt even more special.
Sunny greeted them at the door, her tail wagging furiously as she sniffed at the baby carrier.
“Easy, girl,” Ryan said, crouching down to let Sunny get a closer look.
Avery knelt beside them, holding Elliot up slightly. “This is your new brother, Sunny. Be gentle, okay?”
Sunny tilted her head, her big brown eyes curious, and then gave a soft bark, almost as if she were saying hello.
“See? She’s already in love,” Ryan said, chuckling.
“Just like the rest of us,” Avery added with a smile.
Once they settled Elliot into the crib for a nap, Ryan and Avery set about preparing for their small welcome party.
Janice arrived first, her arms full of balloons and a cake box. “I know you said ‘low-key,’ but come on, Aves. You’re bringing home a human for the first time. This calls for celebration!”
Avery rolled her eyes playfully. “Jan, it’s supposed to be a small gathering. Not a wedding reception.”
“Relax,” Janice said, winking. “I kept it classy. No clowns or magicians, I promise.”
Ryan snorted from the kitchen, where he was arranging a tray of snacks. “Thank God. I don’t think Elliot’s ready for balloon animals yet.”
Soon, the house was filled with the happy hum of family chatter. Alessia and Theo, Avery’s parents, arrived bearing a casserole dish and a bag of gifts.
“Where’s my grandson?” Alessia asked the moment she walked in.
Avery smiled, leading her to the nursery. “He’s napping. But you can peek—just no waking him up, Mom.”
Alessia tiptoed into the room, her face softening as she gazed at Elliot. “Oh, Avery. He’s perfect.”
Theo clapped Ryan on the back as they returned to the living room. “So, how’s fatherhood treating you so far?”
Ryan grinned. “It’s a mix of awe, exhaustion, and sheer panic. But I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
Oliver, Avery’s younger brother, arrived next with a stuffed fox almost as big as the crib. “Uncle Ollie is here, and I come bearing gifts!”
“Please tell me that’s not going in the crib,” Avery said, raising an eyebrow.
“Of course not,” Oliver said, feigning offense. “It’s for the playroom—or, you know, my future babysitting gigs.”
With everyone gathered in the living room, Ryan raised a glass of sparkling cider.
“To Elliot James Hayes,” he began, his voice warm and steady. “Avery and I are so lucky to have this little guy in our lives. And we’re even luckier to have all of you here to celebrate with us. Here’s to family, love, and the many sleepless nights ahead.”
“Cheers!” everyone echoed, raising their glasses.
Avery leaned into Ryan, her heart full. “That was beautiful,” she whispered.
“You’re beautiful,” Ryan replied, kissing her forehead.