Love & Basketball 3

Chapter 9. Steadfast

At 15 weeks my bump is the size of a small cantaloupe. It's exciting to see my body changing and adapting to accommodate the new life growing inside me. I've noticed that my clothes are starting to feel a little tighter around my waist, and I've had to switch to more comfortable, stretchy outfits to accommodate my growing belly. It's a strange and wonderful feeling to know that there is a tiny human developing inside me.

I've been feeling more tired than usual, which is a common symptom of pregnancy. Despite this, I try to stay active, early morning jogging, meditation etc. Overall, I'm filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the miracle of life growing inside me, and I can't wait to see how my body continues to change and adapt as my pregnancy progresses.

I have pregnancy class twice a week where I learn about everything from prenatal nutrition to prenatal yoga. It's been so helpful to connect with other expectant mothers and share our experiences as we navigate this incredible journey together. I've also been reading up on all things pregnancy-related, from what to expect during labor to how to care for a newborn.

"Babe, we ought to hit the road soon to avoid the evening traffic," Jermaine's voice echoed from the bedroom.

"Tell Suzette I won't be able to make it. Jer, I'm not going. Nothing fits," I complained, tears streaking down my face.

When Jermaine entered the walk-in closet, I was sat on the floor in pool of clothes, tears streaming down my face, frustrated at the lack of options that fit my growing belly. He knelt down next to me, wrapping his arms around me in a comforting embrace.

"It's okay, babe. We can find something that works or we can just stay in tonight. I just want you to be comfortable," he murmured softly, wiping away my tears. His unwavering support and patience during this time of physical and emotional changes have been my anchor.

"Jer, I'm nowhere near my third trimester and already I'm complaining about clothes size," I said lighting the mood.

We both shared a laugh as he helped me up off the floor, and together we picked out an outfit that was both comfortable and suitable for Suzette 30th birthday bash, one of jaguars player's wife.

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The next morning, I didn't feel too good, I woke up feeling nauseous and exhausted. My morning sickness continued throughout the morning. Jermaine cancelled his morning training session and insisted on taking me to the doctor.

After a series of tests, it was determined that I was experiencing a severe case of morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum. The doctor prescribed some medication to help alleviate my symptoms and advised me to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.

"I'm sorry you missed your training session today," I apologized to Jermaine as we left the doctor's office.

"Don't worry about that, babe. Your health and the health of our baby are the top priorities right now," he reassured me with a gentle smile. "Let's get you some food, and then head home so you can rest."

For lunch we went to my favorite spot downtown where we enjoyed a leisurely meal together. Jermaine made sure to order all my favorite dishes and kept a watchful eye on me as I ate, making sure I was comfortable and feeling okay.

Back at home, Jermaine helped me get comfortable on the couch with a cozy blanket and some herbal tea to soothe my stomach. He put on a movie and we spent the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying each other's company.

After the movie, we find ourselves discussing baby names, and spent the evening bouncing ideas off each other, discussing the meanings behind different names and how they resonated with us.

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The following week

"Jermaine, it is very deceitful and cunning of him to even suggest that there's a position for you on their team. Your life is firmly rooted here, with your family, friends, and teammates," Renae expressed with frustration as I recounted my conversation with the manager from Boston who approached me.

"It is likely that they may mention it in the media, intentionally causing a stir," I commented.

"I'm not moving to Boston!" She snarled. "They dislike the fact that jaguars are doing better than them. San Diego is where you belong, where we've made our life together," she continued, her emotional state heightened by her pregnancy, tears streaming down her face.

"Nae, I have no plans to move. I am simply relaying the information that was given to me. My heart belonged in San Diego. It's not about the fame or the fortune, it's about the relationships and connections that have shaped me as a player and as a person. San Diego will always be my team, my home, and my future," I responded, wiping her tears.

"I know, Jermaine. I just don't like the idea of some other team trying to lure you away from everything we have here. You have worked so hard to get where you are now, and San Diego has been with you every step of the way," she expressed.

"This city is my home, and that is something no offer or opportunity could ever replace," I reassured her.

Renae nodded, understanding shining in her eyes. "I know, Jermaine. I just needed to hear you say it."

I pulled her into a warm embrace, feeling her steady heartbeat against mine as I held her close.

So as the rumors swirled and the offers rolled in, I remained steadfast in my commitment to my team, my home, and my future. San Diego was where I belonged, and nothing could ever change that.

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