Johnny hugs Colt, and I smile at the sight of them reconnecting. I missed Anna something fierce, and seeing her again feels like finally exhaling after holding my breath for too long.
“So? Was it amazing?” she asks once we’re seated.
“You have no idea,” I say dreamily. “I want to go back already. You and Johnny should go. Colt and I will babysit Aston. Would be great practice for us, and you guys could use the rest and maybe, you know…” I waggle my eyebrows.
Anna laughs, throwing her head back. “Okay, that sounded weird.”
“I know. But seriously, thanks, Anna. For doing this. It means everything to us. I hope you know that.”
She squeezes my hand, and her eyes glisten with emotion. “I do know. Because I know what I went through trying to have Aston. I know how much this means to you, and I’m honored you asked me. I’ll carry this baby with so much love.”
Tears sting the backs of my eyes as I pull her into a hug. “You’re my hero,” I whisper.
“Are you two crying overThe Notebookagain?” Johnny teases, breaking the moment.
We laugh, wiping our eyes. “No,” Anna says, sniffing. “Just appreciating each other.”
Right on cue, Dr. Doherty steps into the room and smiles at the group. “Ready to come in?”
We all nod and stand, following him into his office. I grab Colt’s hand as we take our seats.
“How are we all today?” the doctor asks, looking between us.
“Good, thanks,” I say quickly, maybe too quickly. My pulse ticks faster. I hate how every appointment feels like I’m waiting for a bomb to drop. Perhaps that fear will never go away until the baby is safely in our arms.
“Well, I’ve been reviewing your case and speaking with both counselors. Anna, your sessions have been fantastic. The feedback is extremely positive. There’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that you’re fully committed.”
Anna nods confidently. “Absolutely. I want this so badly it hurts. I’m all in.”
I blink rapidly, fighting more tears. This woman. My friend.
“Johnny, the same goes for you. Your participation and emotional investment are clear.”
“Yes, doctor. I’m right there with her,” Johnny says, and the doctor nods, satisfied.
“In that case, I think it’s time to begin tracking Anna’s ovulation cycles. We’ll get a few on record to properly time the embryo transfer.”
I beam at Colt, and he squeezes my hand tightly.
“Anna, when’s your next cycle due?” the doctor asks.
“In about a week,” she replies.
“Perfect. We’ll start with this one. Begin your prenatal vitamins and everything discussed in counseling. Colt, we’ll also need a sample to begin the embryo prep.”
“Jizz in a cup? I can do that.” He grins like a devil.
I groan. “Men,” I mutter under my breath, smacking his leg while Johnny snickers.
Then Colt adds, dead serious, “Can Dee be in the room when I do it? I kinda wanna make the sperm for this baby… together.”
My cheeks flame instantly. “Colt!”
He looks at me, utterly unashamed.
Dr. Doherty smiles with a slight shrug. “There’s no reason she can’t assist. You’d be surprised how many couples want to be together for the process.”
Johnny chuckles again, clearly enjoying my embarrassment.
