Against the clock

49.

I strolled around the grand buffet, plate in hand, pondering why we'd never made it here before. We usually slept in, missing out on this indulgence. Today was different, and as I took in the sights and smells, I couldn't help but wonder why. And there I was, in a tight dress, something I hadn't worn since discovering I was pregnant. As I reached for a pancake from my plate, I noticed Alex standing next to me, a surprise encounter amidst the bustling buffet scene.

'Here he is! Our groom!' I exclaimed, a smile spreading across my face, 'how was your night?' Alex grinned, his eyes sparkling with excitement. 'I didn't sleep much,' he replied. I couldn't hide my disgust. 'My poor bed,' I muttered sarcastically, recalling how we had traded beds the night before.

Alex nodded in agreement, his expression turning slightly serious. 'I would advise staying away from that bed for a couple of days. But hey! We made it to the buffet,' he said laughing. Derek's voice chimed in from behind me and commented to Alex, 'well, well, I didn't expect you to make it to the buffet.'

Alex chuckled, a fond smile playing on his lips as he glanced at Derek. 'Believe me, Derek, I'm as surprised as you are,' he replied with a hint of amusement in his voice. Derek leaned in, his lips brushing against my cheek in a tender kiss and Alex' eyes widened.

'Oh' Alex exclaimed, his eyebrows shooting up in mock astonishment as he witnessed Derek's affectionate gesture. Alex added, 'I hope my bed is still intact, but I doubt it.' Derek couldn't help but join in the light-hearted banter. 'Well, Alex, if it's any consolation, your bed held up surprisingly well under the pressure,' he quipped with a grin, his eyes twinkling mischievously.

I leaned forward and playfully smacked Derek on the arm, 'your bed is absolutely fine.' Derek chuckled at my playful smack, though a hint of uncertainty flickered in his eyes at my reassurance. 'Are you sure about that?' he replied with a grin, his tone teasing. My eyes widened at Derek's playful skepticism, 'yes I am very sure.'

Alex remarked, 'Whatever, Meredith, it was bound to happen sooner or later. Everyone saw it coming, you two finally screwing each other is a good thing.' His remark caught me off guard, and I felt a mix of surprise and discomfort wash over me. 'Alex, that's not—' I started but Alex interrupted, 'And don't try to lie about it. The neighbors texted us again last night to keep it down. But guess where we were! In your room.'

I cleared my throat, feeling the tension rise in the room. I exchanged a glance with Derek, silently pleading for some backup. But he just shrugged, looking uncomfortable. Trying to lighten the mood, I remarked, 'You know what, the baby must be kicking because she wants this pancake,' gesturing to the pancake on my plate. 'And you're making it cold, which is making her extremely mad.'

Alex nodded, but then a mischievous glint entered his eyes. 'You know,' he began, 'it could be a boy in there.' I chuckled, shaking my head. 'We'll find out next week at our 20-week appointment when we get back home,' I said while putting a hand on my stomach.

Alex grinned, teasingly adding, 'Derek does look like a girl-dad.' I glanced at Derek, and to my surprise, his eyes lit up with love at Alex's comment. Derek leaned in and put his arm around me, pulling me gently closer while letting his hand rest on my stomach, 'I can't wait.'

A couple of hours later, our group went hiking, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature. Izzie and George led the way, their enthusiasm infectious as they eagerly pointed out various plants and animals along the path.

Despite the challenging terrain, the group pressed on, our determination fueled by the promise of breathtaking views awaiting them at the summit. Me and Derek walked side by side. The uphill battle took its toll on me, and I found myself struggling to keep pace with the others.