HEAVY

A New Beginning

Curtis and Sofi had just returned from their week-long visit with Curtis's parents. The time spent at the Ken family home had brought them even closer together, allowing Sofi to bond deeply with Curtis's family. The week had been filled with laughter, shared stories, and plans. But now, back in the familiar comfort of their own home, reality was setting in. Sofi was in her third trimester, and the excitement of their growing family was tinged with a slight undercurrent of anxiety.

"Home sweet home," Curtis said as he parked the car. He turned to Sofi, his smile soft and full of love.

"Finally," Sofi sighed, rubbing her belly. She was now eight months pregnant, and every movement required more effort. "I'm glad we made it through this week. Our parents seemed so happy."

"They were," Curtis replied, helping her out of the car. "We made a good impression. But I think we need to rest before the baby arrives. It's only a matter of weeks now."

They entered their apartment, and Sofi immediately sank onto the couch, kicking off her shoes. Curtis joined her, wrapping his arm around her shoulders, and pulling her close. They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments, simply enjoying the peace of being home.

"Do you think we have everything ready for the baby?" Sofi asked after a while, her voice tinged with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

"Almost," Curtis said. "We still need to pick up a few things, but we've got the essentials. And I've set up the crib in our room."

Sofi nodded, her thoughts drifting to the future. It was hard to believe that soon, they would be parents, responsible for a tiny, helpless human being. The thought was both exhilarating and terrifying.

As they unpacked their bags, Curtis noticed Sofi rubbing her belly more frequently than usual. Her brows were furrowed, and though she tried to mask it with a smile, he could tell she was uncomfortable.

"Babe, you okay?" Curtis asked, concern lacing his voice as he walked over to where she was sitting on the edge of the bed.

Sofi looked up at him, her eyes soft but tired. "I'm fine, Curtis. Just feel a bit heavy and tired. The baby's been very active today."

Curtis knelt in front of her, his hand resting on her bump. "Let's get you some rest. You've had a long day, and I'm sure the baby is just as tired."

Sofi nodded, appreciating his concern. "Yeah, maybe I'll just lie down for a bit."

Curtis helped her into bed, fluffing the pillows behind her back. "Do you need anything? A snack? Some water?"

"I'm okay, just stay with me for a while," Sofi said, her hand reaching out to him.

Curtis climbed into bed beside her, wrapping his arms around her as they lay there in the soft, comforting silence of their home. The warmth of his embrace was soothing, and for a moment, the world outside ceased to exist.

The next few days passed uneventfully, with Curtis and Sofi settling back into their routine. Curtis was attentive as ever, ensuring Sofi was comfortable and well-fed. He had even taken to reading pregnancy books in his spare time, wanting to be as prepared as possible for the arrival of their little one.

One morning, as Sofi was preparing breakfast, she felt a sudden, sharp pain in her lower back. She gasped, dropping the spatula she was holding.

Curtis, who was in the living room, rushed to her side. "Sofi, what's wrong?" he asked, his voice tinged with panic.

She winced, holding onto the counter for support. "I think... I think it's starting."

Curtis's eyes widened as the realization hit him. "You mean... the baby? But it's still a bit early!"