8. Megan
eight
Megan
Six Months Later...
M y belly curved out softly, getting in the way as I tried to get everything ready for tonight.
"Here, let me help," Dominik said. "You just rest, baby."
I moved away from the stove, letting him take over the cooking. I put my hand on my stomach, now six-months pregnant with twins.
It seemed impossible that two children could fit comfortably inside someone as petite as me, but somehow they did. The thought of having Dominiks babies brought a warm glow to my heart.
I sat on the stool that Id brought into the kitchen for when I needed to rest.
"You work yourself too hard," Dominik said to me, worry etched on his face.
"Im fine, really," I insisted. Thankfully, I had no classes in the summer so I was able to focus one hundred percent on being a mother-to-be. In the fall, I could take online courses so I didnt fall behind.
"When is your mother getting here?" he asked.
"Six," I said. "But remember, shes notoriously late for anything thats not a football match."
Dominik nodded. "Ill make sure to factor that in," he replied as he stirred the cream sauce.
I felt a kick in my belly and let out a gasp. "Come, come feel!" I squealed.
Dominik let the wooden spoon fall with a clatter, rushing over and pressing his meaty hand against my belly. His face glowed with pride as he felt our children moving.
"Theyre so active," he murmured, his hand caressing my belly. "Its amazing to think that these little kicks are our kids growing stronger."
I placed my hand over his, our fingers intertwining. "I cant wait to meet them," I whispered, my voice thick with emotion. "I know theyll be wonderful children."
"Theyll be the most beautiful children ever born," Dominik said confidently. He leaned down and kissed me.
Then the doorbell rang. We exchanged glances. Was that my mother? Actually on time?
I went to the front door, holding my belly with one hand as I walked.
My mothers cheerful face greeted me as I opened the door. "Megan!" she beamed, kissing my cheek before moving down to my belly to plant kisses through my loose dress. "And my grandbabies!"
My mom hadnt been thrilled when I told her that I was dating Dominik, especially seeing how hed given up his coaching job back home in order to live with me here near campus. But, as is the way with mothers, she seemed to forget all her issues as soon as she found out I was pregnant.
"Look at you," she cooed, placing her hands on either side of my belly. "Your poor ribs must be bursting!"
I laughed. "Yeah, they are, actually." I shifted uncomfortably. "Theyre going to be big boys like their daddy. But overall, Im doing great."
"Well, Im glad to hear that, darling," Mom said, hugging me. "You know your brother is excited to see you again. Hes sorry he couldnt make it."
I waved off the apology. "I know he has a lot of prep for next season," I said. "Besides, Dominik would be more angry if he missed his big shot just to come over for dinner."
"How is my son in law?" My mom asked.
It sounded weird when she said that. One, because Dominik was two years older than her and two, because we werent married yet.
Mom moved past me to greet Dominik in the kitchen.
I smiled to myself as they chatted about football.
I knew how important it was for Dominik to maintain a good relationship with my family. And truthfully, I could already imagine the future, with our children playing in the yard, surrounded by relatives who adored them.
After dinner, we settled in the sitting room with cups of coffee. Decaf for me, of course.
Dominik cleared his throat as the conversation lulled. He looked nervous - an emotion that I could never recall seeing on his face before.
"Actually, I wanted to take this opportunity to ask you something," he said to my mother. "Mrs. Brown, I..." He trailed off, pulling a small box out of his pocket. "I know this may be old fashioned, but I would like your permission to wed your daughter."
My mother and I gasped in unison.
We both looked at Dominik, who stood up, box in hand, looking more nervous than Id ever seen him.
"Megan," Dominik interrupted, giving me a stern look. "I know that you love me but I also know that you deserve the world. I want to protect you, Megan. I want to take care of you for the rest of my life. I want to provide security for you and our children."
My mother appeared to be frozen in disbelief, while I could only stare at Dominik, dumbfounded. The gravity of his declaration hit me like a ton of bricks. My eyes welled up with tears, and I clumsily dabbed at them with my napkin.
"Of course I give my blessing!" My mother sniffled, she was crying more than me.
"Megan," Dominik implored, his voice softening. "Do you trust me?"
"Yes," I whispered, my voice cracking.
Dominik got down on one knee and presented me with a beautiful diamond ring.
It sparkled brilliantly under the dim light of the pillar candles thatd been arranged on the coffee table, reflecting the warmth of the flames. My mouth hung open, unable to form words as I stared at the stunning piece of jewelry in front of me.
"Megan," Dominik repeated, his voice soft yet firm. "Will you marry me?"
I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, the anticipation building with each passing moment. "Of course, Ill marry you!"
Slowly, I extended my trembling hand, accepting the ring from Dominik.
As I slipped it onto my finger, I could feel the weight of the diamond, a symbol of our enduring commitment. Its intricate design mirrored the intricate web of love and trust woven between us.
I glanced upward, meeting Dominiks eyeshis stormy irises filled with an ocean of love and dedication. He was offering me the security and stability I craved, the foundation upon which our lives, and our childrens, would rise. A tear escaped my eye as I realized the magnitude of this moment.
Dominik pulled me close and kissed me. Then, he stood and looked at my mother.
"Thank you, Mrs. Brown," Dominik said, standing up and extending his hand to my mother. "I promise to protect and cherish your daughter for the rest of my days."
I had chosen to share my life with a man who had shown me unconditional love and support. The joyous celebration of our love had begun, but it was just the beginning of our journey together.
THE END