My Sweets

Getting To Know You

BOBBY

Jessa is doing good. She still has moments where her nausea gets the best of her, but with medication and a careful diet, she feels good most days. Her kidneys looked great and aren't a concern. That was a huge relief. Two weeks ago, we got an early ultrasound since we weren't sure how far along she was. The baby's heart was beating and measuring at 6 weeks. Jessa was very relieved to see there was only one baby. She was worried that she was pregnant with twins again. Knowing our luck, I wouldn't have put it past us. So we're thankful we have one healthy baby and we've finally wrapped our heads around this pregnancy. I'm looking forward to it. We decided not to find out the gender this time. It doesn't matter and we both think it's a girl. Jessa is 8 weeks pregnant now and we decided to keep it a secret for another month before sharing our crazy news.

Right now, I'm running around cleaning. Charlotte and Ava are coming and I can't wait to see them again. Char hasn't agreed to anything, but coming over to stay for the weekend. I'll take it. We'll talk while she's here. I'm finally going to get to know my eldest daughter. I'm excited and scared. What if I don't live up to the father figure she has in her head? She's 8. I'm sure she has envisioned her dream dad. What if she doesn't end up liking me or Jessa or the girls?

Jessa wraps her arms around me from behind. "Relax, Bobby. I can sense your nerves. This is going to go great. Ava is going to adore you. She's lucky that she has such an amazing dad."

"I hope so. I'm so nervous."

"I understand. I'm nervous too. Bre and Noah should be here soon." We invited Bre and Noah to help out with the girls. Jessa was worried the kids would misbehave and it would feel too overwhelming here. The plan is for Bre and Noah to keep Faye, Aria and Cora in the playroom for the time being.

Right on schedule, Bre and Noah arrive. Bre gives me a huge hug when she walks in the door. "I'm literally in shock still. How are you hanging in there?"

"I'm nervous and excited. I can't wait to get to know her. I just hope her mom doesn't cause issues."

"Is her name Ava?" Noah asks.

"It is. She's eight. I only met her briefly but she seemed like a sweet girl. Looks just like her mom."

"I can't wait to meet her," Bre says to me.

Jessa takes them upstairs to the girls. There's a lot of whispering as they walk away. This news shocked our friends but they've all been really supportive. I stand staring at the driveway, waiting for Ava to show up. I can't believe she's going to be in my house. When I saw her last time I was shocked and in denial. Jessa walks up behind me just as they're pulling in. I kiss her briefly as we watch them climb out of the car.

"Ava's adorable," Jessa says with a huge smile. "Hmm. Charlotte's really pretty. Is it bad that I hate her?"

"Please be nice."

"I'm always nice."

I open the door to greet them. Ava's face transforms into a huge smile as she sees me. "Dad!" She yells as she runs into my arms.

I pick her up and hold her tight. "Oh, my Ava girl. I'm so happy you're here." I'm vaguely aware of Jessa introducing herself to Charlotte. I can't pull my attention away from Ava though. I'm so happy she's here.

"Your house is really big and pretty. Who's that?" She points to Jessa.

"This is my wife, Jessa."

"Hi Ava. I'm really excited to meet you."

"Oh. Hi." Ava seems disappointed or shy maybe. She looks up at me. "So I guess you and my mom won't be getting married." I'm rendered speechless.

Jessa just gives her a big smile. "No sweetie. That won't be happening, but we do have a dog here. He's excited to meet you too."