Four Hearts Beat as One

Chapter 10- Astrid's Secret

Astrid Rose Moretti Blackwood sat at her desk, staring at the photo of her and her husband, Sage, on their wedding day. They had met in college, bonding over their love of literature and their desire to make a difference in the world. After graduation, they started a publishing company together, focusing on books that promoted social justice and equality. Over the years, their company had grown, and they had become known for their commitment to amplifying marginalized voices. But Astrid's mind wasn't on her work right now. She was thinking about her family and the secrets she kept from them.

Astrid is 7 months pregnant with her first child, a boy, and she's feeling anxious about becoming a mother. She's always been focused on her career, and she's not sure if she's ready for the changes that parenthood will bring. As she sits at her desk, she rubs her belly and thinks about the future. She wants to be a good mother, but she's scared of losing herself in the process.

Astrid has been working on her third book for months and it's finally starting to take shape. The book is a novel, a story about a young woman who finds herself on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Astrid is pouring her heart and soul into the book, and she's excited to share it with the world. But as she writes, she can't help but think about her own life and the changes that are coming. She's about to become a mother, and she's not sure if she's ready for the responsibility. She's always been focused on her career, and she's worried that she won't be able to balance her work and family life. As she writes, she's trying to process her feelings and figure out what the future holds.

Astrid's thoughts are interrupted by the sound of her husband, Sage, entering the room. He's holding a cup of tea and a smile, and he looks concerned.

"Hey, love. How are you feeling today?" he asks, setting the tea down in front of her.

Astrid sighs and rubs her belly again.

"I'm just feeling a little overwhelmed, I guess. I don't know if i'm ready for this."

Sage nods and sits down beside her.

"You'll be a great mother, Astrid. You're strong and capable, and you'll figure it out as you go along. We'll figure it out together."

Astrid looks up at him, feeling a surge of love and gratitude. She knows that Sage will be a great father, and that together, they'll make a great team. But she's still scared, and she's not sure if she's ready for the changes that are coming.

Sage takes Astrid's hand in his, his touch warm and reassuring.

"Hey, remember when we first started our publishing company? We were both so scared. But we did it together. We figured it out, and we made it work. We can do the same with parenthood. We'll learn as we go, and we'll support each other every step of the way."

Astrid nods, feeling a sense of determination wash over her. She knows Sage is right. They've faced challenges before and come out stronger on the other side. She takes a deep breath and then smiles at Sage.

"You're right. We can do this. We'll be great parents, and we'll make it work."

Sage smiles back and then leans in to kiss her.

"I love you, Astrid. We'll figure this out together."

Astrid picks up her phone and dials Sofia's number, hoping her aunt can offer guidance.

Sofia answers on the first ring, and Astrid can hear the warmth in her voice.

"Astrid, mi amor! How are you feeling? I've been thinking about you so much lately."

Astrid takes a deep breath and pours out her fears and doubts to Sofia, who listens attentively. When Astrid finishes, Sofia responds with her usual wisdom.