Forever and Always

Adding another baby to the mix

It's finally girl's night, and I am eager to unwind after a long week. I invited my closest friends over for a night of wine, charcuterie, and good food. As I put the finishing touches on the table, I hear the doorbell ring.

First to arrive is Miranda, followed closely by Calypso and Marinette. We exchange hugs and kisses before settling in for a night of relaxation. Alya and Y/n arrive next, each with their adorable infants in tow. I can't help but smile as I look at the group of us, all married with children. It seems like just yesterday we were all single and carefree.

As we sip on our wine and chat, I scan the table for Katie. Where is she? She's usually the first one here. Suddenly, the door swings open and in walks Katie, looking radiant as ever. But something's different about her. She passes on the wine and opts for water instead.

"Hey, Katie! Is everything okay?" I ask, trying to hide my concern.

"More than okay," she answers with a knowing smile. "In fact, I have an announcement to make."

"What is it?" we all urge, leaning in closer.

"I'm pregnant!" she exclaims, her face lighting up with joy.

We all erupt in screams and cheers, congratulating Katie and her husband, Travis, on their exciting news. I can't help but tear up as I think about the journey they're about to embark on.

"I can't believe it," Calypso says, shaking her head in disbelief. "First Charlie, then Chandler, Noah, Harper, the other Charlie and Cecily and now a little one for Katie and Travis. Our babies are growing up so fast!"

"I know," I agree, wiping away my tears. "It feels like just yesterday when we were all pregnant together, me with Charlie, Piper with Chandler, and Y/n with Charlie and Cecily."

"And now look at us," Marinette says, laughing. "We're all mothers, and our babies are becoming friends. It's a beautiful thing."

We all nod in agreement, soaking in the moment. I can't help but feel grateful for these women and our tight-knit friendship.

"Okay, okay, let's not get too emotional," Alya says, breaking the silence. "We're here to celebrate, remember?"

We all laugh, and the conversation turns to more lighthearted topics. We discuss our kids, our husbands, and our careers. We share stories and offer advice to each other. It's a night full of laughter, love, and connection.

As the night winds down, we each pack up our things and say our goodbyes. I hug Katie tightly, promising to support her through every step of her pregnancy.

"Thank you, Annabeth," she says, her eyes misty. "I'm so glad I have you and the rest of the girls to turn to."

"Always, Katie," I reply, smiling. "We're in this together, through every milestone and every challenge."

As I watch her leave, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and joy. We're all strong, capable women, and we've built a community of support and love. I know that whatever comes our way, we'll face it together, with each other by our side.