I hugged her back, still gazing around, overcome with emotion.
The next hour was a non-stop merry-go-round of hugs, congratulations, and laughter.I was surrounded by love from every direction—my brother Wick and his partners, Meghan and Marco; Callie and Emmett; my neighbor Amelia; and even Carter's father, who had become a surprising source of support.
I sat in the middle of the yard, taking in the charming details that made Victorian Village homes so distinctive.A wrought-iron fence encircled the space, its intricate scrollwork peeking out from behind lush greenery.Climbing roses wound their way up trellises, their delicate blooms adding splashes of color against the weathered brick of the house.
In one corner, an ancient oak tree spread its branches wide, providing a natural canopy for a cozy seating area beneath.A wooden swing hung from one of its sturdier limbs, gently swaying in the breeze, and a stone pathway meandered through the yard, leading to a small fountain that bubbled quietly.The sound of trickling water mingled with the chirping of birds, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Despite its modest size, the yard felt like a secret oasis, tucked away from the bustle of the city beyond the fence.I was definitely in full nesting mode.
“Cal, it's so cute back here.”
Callie's lips curved into a proud smile.“Thank you.Emmett insisted we hire gardeners because I killed that bonsai tree he got me last year.”
I laughed.“Callie, bonsai trees aren't that hard to keep alive.”
She grimaced, embarrassment coloring her cheeks.“I know, okay?I don't know what happened.Hopefully it's just plants I'm horrible with.”
As she spoke, her hand hovered over her stomach in an unconscious gesture.I eyed her shrewdly.“Um, Mrs.Price, any news to share?”
“Shit.”Callie quickly moved her hands to the armrests of her chair, her eyes darting around nervously.The other guest continued laughing and chatting, oblivious.
I glanced at her drink.“That’s an awful lot of orange juice in your mimosa.”Without warning, I snatched her glass off the table and took a sip.“Mhm.Just as I suspected.”
Her voice dropped to a whisper.“We haven't told anyone yet.”
I set the glass down, fighting to contain my excitement.“Your secret's safe with me.I'm so happy for you.Our kids can be besties!”
Before Callie had time to do more than squeeze my hand, Carter, Emmet, Wick, and Marco approached.
“I'm telling you,” Emmett was saying, “sleep deprivation is no joke.You might want to consider hiring a night nurse.”
Carter scoffed.“Please.I think I can handle a few midnight feedings.”
Wick clapped him on the shoulder.“Oh, sweet summer child.You have no idea what you're in for.”
“I don't know,” Marco said, eyes sparkling with mischief.“It doesn’t take much to get Carterupin the night.Just ask Olivia.”
A flush scorched my cheeks as the men erupted in laughter—everyone except Carter, who still kept that same grumpy expression on his face, save for a wink in my direction.
Meghan clinked her glass, calling for attention.“Alright, everyone!It's time for gifts!”
I protested weakly but was overruled by the enthusiastic crowd.As I opened each present, I was overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness behind them.Soft onesies, tiny shoes, books to read to our son—each gift perfectly represented the village that would help raise him.
When Carter's father revealed his gift from behind a tarp—a handmade wooden rocking chair—I couldn't hold back my tears.“This is beautiful,” I said, running my hand over the smooth wood.
Bill cleared his throat, looking slightly uncomfortable with the attention.“I made it for Carter's mother when she was pregnant with him.I thought...well, I thought you should have it.”
I stood up, awkwardly maneuvering my pregnant belly to give him a hug.“Thank you,” I whispered.“It means so much.”
I turned to look at Carter as he scrubbed a hand across his mouth and forced back the unshed tears pooling in his eyes.
As I finished opening the last of the gifts, he crouched down beside my chair and rested his hand on my belly.“How are my two favorite people doing?”
I leaned in, kissing him softly.“We're perfect.”
As the sun began to set, I looked around at the faces of those who had gathered to celebrate us.My family—both blood and chosen—surrounding me with love and support.I’d never felt more at home.
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
