One Day [PRN]

Thirteen

In June, as Prince's birthday approached, it was clear that this year would be different. Normally, he would have a grand celebration at Paisley Park, an extravagant event that drew in friends, family, and a host of celebrities. But this time, the plans were scaled back significantly.

The reason was simple but significant: I was due to give birth just a week after his birthday. With the impending arrival of our baby, Prince decided to forgo his usual lavish bash in favor of a quieter, more intimate celebration. The decision wasn't just practical—it was also deeply considerate, reflecting his understanding of the importance of the coming weeks for both of us.

Instead of the usual party, Prince celebrated his birthday with a low-key dinner at home. It was a small, private affair, with just the two of us and a few close friends. The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, filled with love and anticipation rather than the usual glamour.

The evening was a simple yet elegant affair. We had a beautifully prepared meal, followed by a small cake with a few candles. There were no grand performances or extravagant decorations, but the celebration was filled with genuine affection and quiet joy.

Prince's focus was on making sure everything was perfect for the baby's arrival, and it was clear how much he valued this moment of peace and preparation before our lives changed forever. The understated celebration was a testament to his commitment to our growing family and the new chapter that was about to begin.

...

As my due date drew closer, Prince and I had debated extensively about where to have our baby. The options were varied—an intimate birthing center, a traditional hospital setting, or a home birth. Each choice had its own set of advantages, and we wanted to ensure that we made the best decision for our baby's arrival.

After much discussion, we settled on a plan that felt right for both of us. We decided on a home birth, creating a serene and familiar environment for the birth. Prince was instrumental in preparing for this decision, and his meticulous nature showed through in every detail.

He transformed the guest room into a beautifully equipped birthing suite. The room was carefully arranged to create a calming atmosphere. Soft lighting, soothing colors, and comfortable furnishings were all part of his vision for making the space as welcoming as possible. The room was equipped with everything needed for a safe and comfortable birth, and he made sure that every detail was perfect.

Prince also arranged for professional support to be on hand. A team of nurses and two experienced midwives were scheduled to assist with the birth, ensuring that we would have expert care and support throughout the process. Their presence gave us confidence and peace of mind.

My parents were also part of this special preparation. They came over to support us, adding a layer of warmth and familiarity to the experience. Their presence was a comfort, and it felt reassuring to have them there as we prepared for the arrival of our baby.

...

When the day finally came, everything was ready. The room was calm and prepared, with every detail taken care of to ensure a smooth and memorable birth. Prince's thoughtful preparation and the presence of our loved ones made the experience all the more meaningful.

As the contractions started to become more intense, I knew it was time to take some comfort in the preparations we had made. I dressed in a simple bathing suit top, which felt comfortable and practical for the birthing tub that Prince had thoughtfully set up in the guest room. The tub was large and inviting, with its warm water promising a soothing relief from the contractions.

I eased myself into the tub, the water embracing me and providing a much-needed sense of buoyancy and relaxation. The warmth of the water helped to ease the discomfort of the contractions, making them feel more manageable. The room around me was calm, with soft lighting and the gentle hum of background music contributing to a tranquil atmosphere.