𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐖𝐞 𝐆𝐨 (𝐮𝐡 𝐨𝐡)

13. Me and mommy

Kimoni's pov

With Ray back at work and my off days stretching out ahead of me, I found myself getting restless. The new house was perfect, no doubt. We'd spent weeks unpacking, arranging furniture, and prepping  Joelle's nursery. But now, with everything settled, I had nothing to do but wait. And think. Too much time for thinking can be dangerous—especially when you're seven months pregnant and your body has a mind of its own.

I scrolled through my phone, searching for something, anything, to break the monotony of my day. Ray had been on me about finding a hobby or something to keep me occupied while he was at work, and honestly, he was right. I couldn't spend all day binge-watching Netflix or re-arranging Joelle's onesies by color. I needed something to get me out of the house, something just for me.

That's when I stumbled across a post on Instagram for a prenatal class: "Mommy and Me: Prenatal Edition." The class was at a community center not too far from our new place. The description promised yoga, relaxation techniques, and a chance to meet other soon-to-be moms. It wasn't really my style—I wasn't exactly the yoga type—but it sounded like it could be fun, and who knew? Maybe I'd make a new friend or two. Plus, it was better than sitting around all day waiting for Ray to come home.

I decided to give it a shot.

---

The community center was buzzing with energy when I arrived. Kids ran around the playground outside, their laughter echoing off the walls, while parents chatted on benches, keeping a loose eye on their little ones. I found the entrance easily enough and followed the signs to the prenatal class.

Inside the studio, the atmosphere was cool and inviting, with soft lighting and the smell of vanilla in the air. A few women were already there, sitting on yoga mats and chatting like they'd known each other for years. I suddenly felt a little out of place. I wasn't sure if I was ready to be all zen and namaste, but I was here now, so I might as well give it a try.

"Hey there! You must be new," a bright voice called out as I set down my bag. I turned to see a woman with caramel skin, curly hair piled on top of her head, and a warm smile. She had that natural glow that some women seem to have during pregnancy, the kind that makes you wonder if they're drinking some secret juice .

"Yeah, first time," I said, returning her smile. "I'm Kimoni."

"I'm Alicia," she said, extending a hand. Her grip was firm, confident. "Welcome! You're gonna love it here. Everyone's really cool, and it's a good way to relax—especially when you're about ready to pop."

I laughed, feeling some of my nervousness slip away. "That's what I'm hoping. I needed something to do besides wait around for this baby to show up."

"I feel you. I'm about eight months, and I was going stir-crazy at home. My husband was like, 'You need to get out more,' so here I am." Alicia laughed, a light, easy sound that put me at ease.

"Same. My man's back at work, and I'm just bored, you know?"

Before Alicia could respond, the instructor walked in. She was a petite woman with dreadlocks that fell to her waist, her movements fluid and graceful. She greeted us all with a wide smile, her presence calming the room immediately.

"Alright, mamas, let's get started," she said. "I'm Nia, and I'll be guiding you through today's class. We're going to focus on some gentle stretches and breathing techniques that'll help you stay relaxed and connected to your babies."

We all settled onto our mats, and the class began. At first, I was skeptical. I mean, stretching and deep breathing? It sounded kind of basic. But as we moved through the poses, I felt the tension in my body start to ease. My mind quieted, and for the first time in weeks, I wasn't thinking about baby names, nursery decorations, or what life would be like after Joelle was born. I was just... present.