𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐬

𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝟓𝟔

Davis settled into his office chair, a slight smile playing at the corner of his lips as he continued browsing through house listings on his laptop. He had been at it for hours, immersed in images of expansive living rooms, cozy fireplaces, and backyards where he could already envision the twins running around. He knew this was a big decision, and every detail mattered. A part of him wanted to tell Sadira about the search, but the other part wanted to keep it a secret, a surprise that would show her how committed he was to this new chapter they were beginning together.

The picture on his screen was of a home that caught his attention immediately. It was a classic brick colonial with white shutters and a sprawling front lawn edged with flowers. Tall oak trees lined the driveway, their branches forming an arch that would shade them on hot summer days. He imagined pulling up with Sadira in the passenger seat, her eyes lighting up as she saw the house for the first time. The porch was wide with a swing hanging on one side, the perfect place to watch sunsets or relax with Sadira after a long day.

He clicked through the photos, taking in the details. The living room had a beautiful fireplace, surrounded by a white mantel and built-in bookshelves on either side. He could picture the room with cozy couches, plush rugs, and photos of their growing family adorning the walls. There was something about this house that just felt right-it was warm, inviting, and had enough space for all the love he wanted to pour into it.

The kitchen was another highlight. Davis had never really been one for cooking, but he knew Sadira loved spending time in the kitchen, trying out new recipes or making her favorite comfort foods. This kitchen had a long island with a granite countertop, perfect for family breakfasts or late-night snacks. There was a bay window over the sink, with a view of the backyard that stretched out, complete with a deck and a garden plot. He could imagine himself there, helping Sadira prepare meals, their twins playing on the floor, and maybe even a family dog curled up in the corner.

The house had four bedrooms, one that he could already envision transforming into a nursery. He imagined the nursery with soft pastel-colored walls, a rocking chair in the corner, and twin cribs side by side. He could almost hear the gentle creak of the rocking chair as he soothed one of the babies to sleep. There would be shelves for their toys, a mobile hanging from the ceiling, and soft, warm light filling the room. He wanted a space that felt peaceful and safe, a place where their babies could grow and feel loved.

Davis leaned back, running a hand over his face as he took it all in. He could already feel the weight of this decision settling into his bones. This was about more than just finding a house-it was about building a home for Sadira and their babies. He knew he was ready to take this step, and he couldn't wait to see her face when he finally revealed it all to her. For now, though, he'd keep it to himself, savoring the excitement of the surprise he was planning.

He glanced at his phone, his screensaver a candid photo of Sadira laughing, her face illuminated by the soft glow of the sunset from a beach trip they'd taken months ago. She looked so happy, so content, and he wanted to make sure she felt that way every day. It hadn't been long since they'd found out about the pregnancy, and already he could see changes in her. She was glowing, happier, and even more beautiful, if that was possible. Her body was starting to show the smallest hint of a baby bump, and every time he noticed it, his heart swelled with pride and anticipation.

He thought back to the day they found out they were having twins. Sadira had looked up at the ultrasound screen with wide eyes, her mouth slightly open in shock, and then that look had quickly melted into pure joy. He remembered the feeling of his own heart skipping a beat when the ultrasound technician had said those words, "Two heartbeats. You're having twins-a boy and a girl." The rest of the appointment had passed in a blur, a whirlwind of emotions, but he couldn't forget the way Sadira's hand had gripped his, anchoring them both to that life-changing moment.

His thoughts were interrupted by the chiming of his phone. It was a reminder to pick up a few things for Sadira on his way over. He had a list of her favorite snacks and drinks, things she had been craving lately. He chuckled, remembering how she'd sent him out for pickles and ice cream just the other night, a combination he'd never thought would go together, but she had devoured it like it was the best thing in the world. He liked being able to do little things for her, making her feel taken care of, especially now with the babies on the way.

A short while later, he pulled into the driveway of Sadira's place, his car packed with bags from their favorite grocery store. As he walked up to the door, he imagined what it would be like to come home to her every day, to their babies, and to the life they were building together. He let himself in quietly, not wanting to wake her if she was napping. She had been so tired lately, and he wanted to make sure she got all the rest she needed.

He found her on the couch, curled up with a blanket, fast asleep. Her face was peaceful, her breathing slow and steady, and he stood there for a moment, just watching her. She looked so small, so delicate, and he felt an overwhelming wave of protectiveness wash over him. He set the bags down and gently scooped her up into his arms, careful not to wake her. She stirred slightly, nuzzling her face into his chest, and he could feel her relax as he carried her to the bedroom.

Once he had her settled in bed, he brushed a strand of hair away from her face and kissed her forehead. She mumbled something softly, her eyes still closed, and he smiled, feeling his heart swell with love. He headed to the bathroom to take a quick shower, letting the hot water wash away the stress of the day. As he stood there, he thought about all the things he wanted to do for her, all the ways he wanted to show her how much she meant to him. He wanted to be there for her every step of the way, to make sure she never had to worry or feel alone.

After drying off, he slipped into bed beside her, wrapping his arm around her and pulling her close. She instinctively curled into him, her head resting on his chest, and he felt a warmth spread through him that had nothing to do with the blankets. He gently kissed her temple, whispering, "I love you."

Sadira's eyes fluttered open just a little, and she smiled sleepily, her voice barely above a whisper. "I love you too," she murmured, before drifting back to sleep. He lay there, holding her close, feeling the rise and fall of her breathing, and he knew there was nowhere else he'd rather be. This was his family and future, and he was ready to give them everything.

As he held her, his mind wandered back to the house he had seen earlier. He could already picture them there, filling the rooms with laughter and memories, turning that house into a home. He knew it was only a matter of time before he'd make that vision a reality. For now, though, he was content to hold her, to bask in the quiet moments, and to look forward to all the beautiful moments yet to come.