I had some help

Thirty-nine

●2020●

Alex stirred in her sleep, the smell of coffee and the soft chatter around her slowly waking her up. She pulled back the curtain of her bunk, blinking at the light. "Morning, everyone." She said, her voice still thick with sleep.

Bailey looked over and smiled. "Morning, beautiful. Coffee?"

"Please." Alex replied, stretching as she climbed out of her bunk. She joined Bailey, Michael and Morgan in the kitchenette, accepting a cup of coffee from Bailey. "Thanks."

"What's on the agenda today?" Michael asked, leaning against the counter.

"We've got a soundcheck in a few hours, and then we can explore the city before the concert tonight." Alex replied.

As the conversation resumed over cups of coffee, Morgan announced, "I'll be right back, I'm going to call my momma." His declaration prompted Alex to jump up, shouting after him as they disappeared behind the bunk's door. She tackled Morgan onto the couch upon catching up with him.

"Really?" Morgan deadpanned before laughing at her.

"Mhm." Alex replied excitedly, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Morgan dialed his mom's number, Facetiming her, managing a quick greeting before Alex playfully snatched the phone. "OH MY GOSH, ALEX!" Lesli's voice burst through the phone. "I haven't seen you in years." Tears welled in her eyes.

"Hi, Momma." Alex greeted warmly, feeling emotional herself.

Alex and Lesli caught up for a while, reminiscing and sharing stories. Lesli's laughter and affectionate tone filled the room, bringing a sense of warmth and familiarity.

Morgan left the room to let the girls catch up. "Morgan? What're you doing out here?" Michael asked with a small laugh as Morgan grabbed a water bottle. "I got kicked out." Morgan said rolling his eyes. "It's your mom?" Michael said laughing harder. "Mhm." Morgan said walking back into the room Alex was in.

Morgan sat down next to Alex. "Ma, there's something I need to tell you." Morgan began, squeezing Alex's hand for support.

"Tell me you and Alex are together and are gonna welcome a baby?" Leslie exclaimed happily. Alex's smile faded as memories of her time at the hospital flew into her head. Morgan pulled her close, seeking to comfort her silently.

"Close." Leslie shrieked. "Katie's pregnant."

Leslie's joy turned to stern disappointment. "MORGAN COLE WALLEN, how could you!"

Morgan's gaze fell, feeling ashamed. "I know, ma."

After a few minutes of silence, Leslie turned her attention to Alex. "Alex, how are you and Bailey?" Leslie swiftly changed the subject, her tone softening.

Alex sighed, glancing at Morgan, then replied, "We're doing well, Momma. Bailey's been amazing."

"I'm glad to hear that," Leslie responded, her voice warm. "You deserve the best, Alex." Leslie said glaring at her son.

Morgan pulled Alex closer, pressing a kiss to her temple, hidden from the cameras view. "I'll figure it all out Ma."

Leslie's voice softened further. "I know you will, Morgan. And Alex, you always have a place in our family. Don't ever forget that."

"Thanks, Momma." Alex said, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders.

After they hung up, Alex comforted Morgan, who was visibly upset. He knew his mom wouldn't like the news, but he didn't think she'd react so strongly. He wrapped his arms around Alex, finding solace in her presence.