Breaking Free

47.

The days after their appointment with Dr. Adams were a little easier. Kierra's nausea wasn't completely gone, but the medication was helping enough to let her rest and eat a little without rushing to the bathroom every few minutes. Tasha had been even more attentive, keeping a close eye on her and making sure she was comfortable. The love and care between them seemed to grow deeper with each passing day, even as they navigated the challenges of pregnancy.

One afternoon, after a morning of mostly lounging around the house, Kierra found herself standing in front of the bathroom mirror, her hairbrush in hand. She was feeling a bit better today, so she decided to put a little effort into looking more like herself. As she brushed through her curls, she caught her reflection and noticed how much her body was changing. Her belly had a small, noticeable bump now, and the changes made everything feel more real.

Just as she was about to set the brush down, Tasha appeared in the doorway. "Hey, baby," she said softly, leaning against the doorframe, watching Kierra with an affectionate smile.

Kierra smiled back at her in the mirror. "Hey. I was just trying to tame this wild hair," she said, tugging lightly on a curl.

Tasha walked into the bathroom and slipped her arms around Kierra's waist from behind, gently resting her hands on Kierra's small bump. She pressed her body close, her warmth immediately making Kierra relax.

"You don't need to do anything to it," Tasha murmured, leaning in to kiss the side of Kierra's neck. "You look beautiful just like this."

Kierra closed her eyes, enjoying the feel of Tasha's soft lips against her neck. "You're just saying that because you have to," she teased, though her voice was light and full of affection.

Tasha chuckled, resting her chin on Kierra's shoulder. "I don't have to say anything, but I do because it's true." Her hands gently rubbed Kierra's growing belly, and for a moment, they stood together, breathing in the quiet of the moment.

"I can't believe we're going to be parents soon," Kierra said softly, her voice filled with a mixture of awe and nervous excitement. "It feels like everything's happening so fast."

Tasha nodded, her cheek still pressed against Kierra's. "I know, but we're ready for this. And no matter what, we'll get through it together."

They stayed like that for a few more minutes, Tasha's hands gently rubbing Kierra's belly, before the sound of the doorbell rang through the house.

"That's probably my parents," Kierra said, giving Tasha's arm a squeeze before gently pulling away. "Can you get the door? I'll be out in a second."

"Of course." Tasha kissed Kierra's neck one more time before heading out of the bathroom.

As Kierra finished up, she heard the warm laughter of her father, Bishop Sheard, and the familiar sound of her mother, Karen—Mommy, as she had always called her—talking with Tasha. Kierra smiled to herself. She loved how easily Tasha had fit into her family, and how her parents had welcomed her with open arms.

By the time she made it into the living room, her parents were already seated on the couch. Her father had his arm draped over the back of the couch, relaxed and smiling, while her mother was chatting with Tasha, who was pouring them some iced tea.

"Kierra, baby!" her mother said, standing up as soon as she saw her. "How are you feeling?" Karen asked, pulling Kierra into a tight hug.

Kierra hugged her back, letting herself relax into her mother's embrace. "Better today," she said. "The medicine Dr. Adams gave me is helping a lot."

Her father stood up next and gave her a gentle hug. "That's good to hear. You know we've been praying for you every day."

"I know, Daddy. Thank you," Kierra said, feeling a wave of comfort wash over her. There was something about having her parents close that always made her feel better.