Epilogue - Adrian
4 months later
Months had flown by since that life-changing night, and the uncertainty that once hung over Rhiannon had melted away, replaced by the cozy routine they'd built while preparing for their little one.
Each morning, Rhiannon would wake up to the sweet sound of Adrian's voice chatting softly to her baby bump—an adorable habit he'd picked up after they returned from the hospital. "Good morning, little one! How did you sleep?" he'd ask, placing his hand over her rounded belly and feeling the unmistakable kicks from within.
"Adrian, I swear you're going to spoil our baby before they even arrive," Rhiannon teased, trying in vain to get a few more minutes of sleep as he leaned down to kiss her.
"Can you blame me?" he said with a playful grin, planting a tender kiss just below her navel, a new little ritual of his. A kiss for her and a kiss for the baby. "I'm just making sure they know how loved they are. Plus, spoiling them is part of my job as their dad!"
Their home had transformed into a cozy sanctuary, lovingly decorated for the baby's arrival. The nursery was filled with warm pastels, and each corner was brimming with thoughtful touches—handmade mobiles, soft blankets, and tiny clothes neatly lined up, all awaiting their new family member. Rhiannon had taken such joy in decorating the space, meticulously planning every detail with Adrian's input, both of them soaking in the happiness of their shared dreams.
Just as they were sharing a sweet moment, their phones buzzed at the same time, pulling their attention away. Adrian picked up his phone first, a wide grin spreading across his face. "It's Amy. She wants us to come to the hospital. She's having the baby!"
Rhiannon's heart soared. "Really?" she asked, excitement bubbling along with a hint of nerves. It wouldn't be long before it was their turn. "Have they picked out a name yet?"
"Dahlia," he murmured, leaning down to give her a quick kiss. "Come on, grab your things, and let's go!"
They rushed to gather their stuff, excitement building as they headed out the door. Rhiannon was already envisioning tiny fingers and the soft cries of a newborn, buzzing with anticipation to share in the joy of Amy's new arrival.
Twenty minutes later, they reached the hospital, greeted by Amy's radiant smile and Valentina's warm presence. "You made it!" Amy exclaimed, clutching her hospital gown, looking proud yet a bit exhausted.
Valentina wrapped her arms around Rhiannon, pulling her close. "Can you believe we're all in this together now? It feels surreal!"
"I know! It's amazing," Rhiannon replied, warmth spreading through her as they walked into the hospital room where Amy lay holding a small bundle in her arms.
"Meet Dahlia," Amy said, her eyes sparkling with joy. She gently unveiled the blanket, revealing a tiny girl with tufts of dark hair and delicate features.
Rhiannon's heart swelled as she gazed at the newborn, a rush of emotion flooding through her. "She's perfect," she whispered, trying to hold back tears.
Adrian leaned closer, standing beside her. "Congratulations, Amy. She's beautiful," he said softly, his voice full of genuine admiration.
In that moment, Rhiannon felt a sense of unity wrap around them—a bond that went beyond words. As they spent the afternoon marveling over Dahlia, sharing stories and laughter, it felt like they were growing even closer as family, all of them stepping into this new chapter of their lives together.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky in stunning shades of orange and pink, Rhiannon exchanged an excited glance with Adrian. They both knew this was just the beginning; their family would soon join this warm and loving community.
Later that evening, as they headed home, the atmosphere was a calm reflection of the joy they'd just experienced. Rhiannon leaned her head against Adrian's shoulder while they settled on the couch, their fingers interlinked. The nursery glowed softly from the light streaming in through the cracks of the door.
"I can't believe how beautiful Dahlia is," Rhiannon said, feeling a warm flutter in her chest.
"Our little one is going to be just as beautiful," Adrian murmured, pulling her in closer, warmth radiating between them. "And I can't fucking wait to meet her."
"Or him," Rhiannon replied, twisting around to give him a kiss, and while he was looking at her, his eyes so earnest and loving, she found herself telling him, "Thank you, Baby. Thank you for being there with me through it all. I don’t think I would’ve been able to do it without you."
"Together," he promised her, his breath skating across her lips. "Always together, Princess. We'll do it all together ."
*****
THE END