"Got it," came his reply.Moments later, his deep voice carried from the entryway."Derrick, Kellie—welcome.Come in, come in."
"Oh, Mr.Vallex," Kellie's voice trembled slightly as she stepped inside."I've never...I mean, your home is just...wow.Thank you for inviting us."
Krevan's tone softened."If you're going to be in Ancelin's circle, it's just Krevan to you."
"Vallex.We appreciate the invitation."Derrick nodded, echoing his wife's sentiment."Ancelin's been counting the minutes until you arrived."Kellie stepped into the kitchen, her eyes widening at the sight of pastel streamers, tiny bootie decorations, and a rose-frosted cake centered on the table.Her mouth fell open."Ancelin...are you expecting too?"
"Surprise, Kellie!"Katie's voice rang out from the doorway."Today we're celebrating two things—Ancelin's birthday and your little one on the way."
Kellie pressed her hands to her cheeks."For me?Really?"
"Who else around here needs baby gifts?"Ancelin smiled, placing small packages wrapped in silver paper into both women's hands.
Katie turned the box over in her palm."What have you done now?"
"Just open it," Ancelin urged.Paper tore, boxes opened, and twin gasps filled the room as delicate necklaces with beautiful pendants caught the light.
"Ancelin!"Katie's fingers traced the pendant on her necklace."This is too much.It's beautiful."She wrapped her arms around the hostess.
Kellie blinked rapidly at her gift, her voice barely audible."Mine?Truly?"
"Of course it's for you.I crafted them myself from stones I found at the Coti bazaar and Silos marketplace.It's Verrian artistry,” Ancelin said proudly.
"It's exquisite," Katie touched the pendant."I'm speechless."
Ancelin gestured toward the dining area."Come, let's have lunch now.Dinner will be later.”
Kellie's eyes widened as she took in Ancelin's appearance."You're absolutely radiant in that dress.And this home—it's like something from a dream."Her voice caught."I've never been included in something so special before."Moisture gathered at the corners of her eyes and spilled over her rounded cheeks."Forgive me, my emotions are all over the place lately."
"Let's grab our plates and head to the living room," Ancelin suggested."There's more space to stretch out, and I've got a few surprises waiting.Krevan, could you pour Kellie some of that tea-root soda?"Krevan frowned."I'd rather not serve that questionable concoction to an expectant mother.Tea, coffee, or water would be more appropriate—unless you insist, Kellie.Personally, I find it rather unpleasant."
"Just water, please," Kellie said softly.
"And for you?"Krevan turned to Derrick.
"Coffee would be perfect."Derrick's gaze lingered on Ancelin."Impressive home, impressive wife.”
"Eyes elsewhere," Krevan muttered, thrusting a steaming mug into Derrick's hands.
In the living room, Ancelin arranged plates of food for everyone before guiding Kellie through her collection of presents from the Krammers and the hosts.With each unwrapped gift, Kellie's eyes glistened anew, her gratitude evident in every trembling smile.
"These finger sandwiches are adorable—and delicious.I love the colors," Katie said, drawing attention away from Kellie's tears.Across the room, Ancelin watched Krevan and Derrick demolish a small mountain of them.
"Everything's wonderful," Kellie managed between sniffles.Katie pressed a stack of wrapped gifts into her hands.The Krammers' contribution—three tiny outfits with matching caps—drew gasps of delight.When the wrapping paper settled and the last crumbs disappeared, Ancelin rose with a secretive smile.
"There's one more surprise," she said, leading them upstairs to the guest bedroom.
The crib stood in the center of the room, sunlight catching on its polished rails.A matching changing table and rocking chair waited nearby.Kellie's legs gave way, and she sank onto the edge of the bed.
"I never imagined..."Her voice broke."Ancelin—Krevan—I don't know how to thank you."Fresh tears caught the light like tiny prisms.
"Friends don't keep score," Ancelin said, squeezing Kellie's hand."I just want you and your little one to have what you need.My only request is some baby-holding privileges when the time comes."She wrapped her arms around Kellie in a gentle embrace."Look at you!"Her palm hovered over the rounded belly before making contact."I can't help but feel a little envious."
Krevan's pupils dilated as he sidled next to Ancelin."We'll revisit that once everyone leaves," he whispered, his fingers finding the curve of her hip.Ancelin ignored the comment and ushered the group downstairs.In the living room, conversation flowed around the SatView program until the minutes melted away.
"Something smells heavenly," Katie remarked.
"Dinner's just about done."Ancelin rose from her seat."Katie, mind helping in the kitchen?Everything's ready to come out."She smoothed her hands over her silky dress."I've only got one apron.Will you be alright without one, or should I change and let you wear the apron?"
