I feel a lump form in my throat as I look around at everyone gathered here. This evening—this moment—is more than just a dinner. It’s a turning point.
The house is alive with laughter and chatter, the kind that fills every nook and cranny, making even the walls seem to breathe with joy. Millie sits at the head of the table, gently stroking her belly, Gabriel by her side with his hand resting on her lower back in that steady, protective way only he can manage. Their eyes meet occasionally, sharing silent conversations only they understand—like they’ve been waiting for this moment their entire lives.
Aura, Millie’s toddler, is perched on her lap, a small bundle of brown curls and big blue eyes that dart around the room with wide-eyed wonder. She’s clutching a half-chewed cracker in one tiny hand, her other hand gripping Millie’s shirt as if to anchor herself in the warmth of family. Her innocence and curiosity add a beautiful softness to the bustling room.
Dinner is served, the familiar aroma of my mom’s famous meatballs filling the air. The smell wraps around us like a hug—warm, comforting, nostalgic. Plates clatter softly as we all dig in, the table quickly becoming a mess of sauce-spattered napkins and half-eaten spaghetti strands.
“Can I have more pasta, please?” Cohen asks, his eyes fixed on his plate as he forks up the last of his spaghetti.
I glance over at him, a smile tugging at my lips. “Just one more scoop, okay? You’re going to get a stomach ache if you eat any more.”
He pouts dramatically. “Mom,” he protests, “I’m growing. I need to be strong and healthy for my birthday!”
I laugh, shaking my head. “That’s true, but we don’t need a stomach ache to go along with your strength.”
Millie, who’s sitting across from me, looks over at Cohen with a laugh. “I don’t think he’s ever going to stop talking about that boat birthday party.”
Cohen beams, practically vibrating with excitement. “I can’t wait! The Mentos ones. The volcanoes will be bigger than last year!”
Laughter bubbles up around the table, the energy warm and electric. I glance at Cole, who’s sitting next to me with his hand resting casually on my knee. His eyes are soft, almost lost in the happiness of the moment. That look—the one where his walls come down and I see the purest version of him—makes my heart flutter wildly. It’s a feeling I want to bottle up and keep forever. We’re here, surrounded by the people we love, and the future looks brighter than it ever has.
Suddenly, Millie shifts in her chair, her hand moving instinctively to her belly. Her face tightens for a brief moment, a flicker of discomfort crossing her features. I catch it immediately.
Gabriel, sensing it too, leans in, his voice low and soothing as he rubs gentle circles on her back. “You alright, Bumper?”
Millie bites her lip. “Yeah, just...a cramp,” she murmurs,trying to smile through the pain. “Probably just one of those annoying pregnancy things.”
But then her face pales, the cramp deepening, and she shifts again, eyes wide with sudden alarm.
Before anyone can react, a sharp, unmistakable sound splits the air—the unmistakable gush of water breaking.
“Millie?” My mom’s voice rises, a blend of surprise and concern. “Oh, my God.”
Millie gasps, clutching her belly with both hands. “I think...I think it’s time.”
The room falls completely silent, a silence that feels thick and heavy. Gabriel jumps to his feet immediately, his usually calm demeanor flickering with panic, but there’s a determination in his eyes. “I need to get the car ready,” he says, voice trembling but resolute.
Lucie is already at Millie’s side, helping her stand. “Let’s get you to the hospital.”
Millie nods, her breath quickening, the reality of the situation setting in. Gabriel is pacing, looking between Millie and the door, clearly trying to keep himself together for her.
“Is there anything we can do?” I ask, standing up, moving toward Millie as I place a hand on her shoulder.
“I’m good,” she says, her voice tight but trying to stay calm. “Just get me to the hospital, please. We don’t have much time.”
My dad, who’s been standing frozen for a few seconds, suddenly jumps into action. “Someone get the car keys! Gabriel, do you need help with the car seat?”
“It’s ready,” Gabriel says, nodding toward the entryway, his voice steadier now. “I’ve got everything set.”
The house erupts into organized chaos. Lucie grabs her purse, Reuben throws on his jacket, my mom is on the phone with the hospital, and I’m holding Millie’s hand, feeling the rapid beat of her pulse beneath my palm.
My mom scoops Aura up, her sleepy face scrunching in confusion, but unbothered, already looking forward toher first trip to meet her baby sister. She babbles softly, oblivious to the whirlwind of activity, but already eyes are bright with wonder at the new adventure.
As everyone rushes around, Millie’s hand finds mine. “Kenna, I’m scared,” she admits, her voice trembling.
I squeeze her hand, my voice steady even as I feel the adrenaline in my own veins. “You’re strong, and Gabriel’s right here. We’ve got you.”
She nods, but there’s a flicker of anxiety in her eyes. I glance at Gabriel, who’s already on the phone with someone, making sure everything’s in place for Millie’s arrival at the hospital. But when he looks up at me, there’s nothing but calm assurance in his eyes.
