Unexpected Love

36. Parenting Class

The first rays of sunlight peeked through the blinds as Angela padded into the living room, rubbing sleep from her eyes. Her initial grogginess dissipated when she found Lucy pacing back and forth, her face etched with worry.

"Babe?" Angela asked softly, approaching her. "What's wrong?" Lucy stopped mid-step, her hands clutching at the fabric of her oversized shirt. "It's today," she said, her voice laced with nerves. "Our first parenting class." *Oh*, Angela thought, *that's why she's so anxious*.

She wrapped her arms around Lucy from behind, resting her chin on her shoulder. "We're going to be great," she said confidently, trying to infuse Lucy with some of her own courage. "We've got this." Lucy leaned into her embrace, taking a deep, steadying breath.

"But what if we don't?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper. "What if we mess up?" Angela pulled back, cupping Lucy's face in her hands and forcing her to meet her gaze. "We're in this together, luce how many times do i have to tell you this" she reminded her gently.

"And together, we're going to learn everything we need to know to be amazing parents." Lucy nodded, her eyes searching Angela's for reassurance. "You're right," she said finally, a small smile forming on her lips.

"We've got this." And with that, the nervous energy seemed to dissipate from the room, replaced by a renewed sense of determination and excitement.

After breakfast, Lucy retreated to the bedroom to get dressed for their parenting class. Angela could hear her rustling through the closet, the sound of hangers sliding against the metal rod punctuating the silence. Suddenly, there was a soft thud followed by a muffled sob.

Angela rushed over, finding Lucy sitting on the edge of the bed, tears streaming down her cheeks as she clutched a dress that refused to stretch over her growing belly. "Babe?" Angela asked hesitantly, sitting down beside her.

Lucy looked up, her eyes red and brimming with frustration. "Nothing fits," she wailed, gesturing towards the pile of discarded clothing. "I hate feeling so...so huge." Angela took Lucy's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "You're not huge," she said firmly.

"You're beautiful, and you're growing two amazing human beings." She paused, letting her words sink in. "Let's try something else, okay?" Together, they sifted through Lucy's wardrobe, finally settling on a flowing maxi dress that would accommodate her changing figure.

As Lucy slipped it on, Angela couldn't help but marvel at how radiant she looked. "See?" Angela said, her voice thick with emotion. "Perfect." Lucy sniffled, wiping away her tears.

"Thank you," she whispered, leaning into Angela's embrace. *This is another part of the journey*, Angela thought, *learning to navigate the ups and downs, the insecurities and fears*. She kissed Lucy's forehead and whispered "we'll go shopping for maternity clothes after okay, my love?"

While Lucy fussed over her appearance, Angela moved to her own side of the closet, selecting a sharp navy blue suit skirt and blazer. She could sense Lucy's eyes on her, the envy evident in her gaze.

*I wish I could make her see how beautiful she is*, Angela thought, turning to face Lucy. "You know," she began, buttoning her blazer, "you're the most gorgeous woman I've ever laid eyes on - pregnant or not." Lucy blushed, looking down at her rounded belly.

"But you look amazing in everything," she countered. Angela crossed the room, taking Lucy's hands in hers. "And you look amazing in anything - or nothing at all," she said, smiling warmly. "Those curves, that belly, it's all part of the miracle happening inside you."

She placed a gentle hand on Lucy's stomach, feeling their children move beneath her touch. "Don't ever let pregnancy make you feel less than perfect," Angela continued, "because you're growing our family, and that's the most beautiful thing I can imagine."

Lucy's eyes filled with tears again, but these were different - tears of gratitude and love. "Thank you," she whispered, leaning in for a kiss. "Now," Angela said, pulling back, "let's go rock this parenting class."

As Angela and Lucy entered the bustling parenting class, they scanned the room, their hands intertwined. Couples of varying ages and backgrounds dotted the landscape of folding chairs, all sharing in the common anticipation of welcoming new life.

Lucy couldn't help but notice the curious glances thrown their way, and she felt a pang of insecurity. *Are we doing this right?*, she wondered, squeezing Angela's hand tighter. Sensing her unease, Angela leaned over and whispered in her ear, "We're going to be amazing moms, Luce. It doesn't matter what anyone else thinks."

Lucy nodded, trying to absorb Angela's confidence. The instructor, a kind-faced woman named Martha, greeted them warmly and led them to a pair of empty seats in the back. Angela flashed her a grateful smile as they sat down.

Lucy's heart raced as she looked around, realizing they were indeed the only two mothers present - and the only same-sex couple.

The whispers and stares intensified, and Lucy felt her cheeks grow warm. Angela noticed, placing a comforting arm around her shoulders. "Remember, love," Angela murmured, "it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks."

Lucy took a deep breath, feeling Angela's steady presence beside her. They were different, yes, but they were also strong and capable. As the class began, Lucy focused on Angela's words, reminding herself that their love was enough - they didn't need anyone else's approval.

Martha, the instructor, began the class with a lesson on safe sleep practices, demonstrating how to properly position a newborn in a crib. Lucy listened intently, nodding along as she absorbed the information.

Angela, always the attentive partner, took notes on her phone, glancing up periodically to make sure Lucy understood. When Martha moved on to supporting a baby's head, Angela gently took Lucy's hands in her own, guiding her through the motions.

"Like this?" Lucy asked, mimicking Angela's movements. "Perfect," Angela replied with a smile. Their connection was palpable, even in such a simple act. Next, the discussion turned to breastfeeding versus bottle feeding.

Angela glanced at Lucy, her eyes filled with support and understanding. They'd had countless conversations about this topic, knowing that their decision would be met with scrutiny from some. Lucy cleared her throat, raising her hand hesitantly.

"What if one of us can't breastfeed?" she asked, her voice barely audible over the chatter of the class. Martha smiled warmly, acknowledging their unique situation. "There are plenty of options," she assured them, launching into a detailed explanation of formula feeding, breast pumps, and milk banks.

Lucy relaxed, grateful for the inclusive response. Throughout the class, they asked questions, shared laughs, and leaned on each other for support - just like they would when raising their children.

And as they left the classroom, armed with new knowledge and confidence, Lucy knew that they were going to be just fine.

1148 words!! hope you enjoyed- please vote x