More Than Friends

Chapter 39: Settlin' Into the News

The news of Nicole's pregnancy had brought a new kind of excitement to their lives. Every day since that moment Devin found out, it seemed like all he could talk about was the baby. He'd ask Nicole questions about how she was feelin', checkin' in constantly, makin' sure she was comfortable. Nicole loved seein' this side of him—so full of care, so excited for the future.

But as the days passed, Nicole started feelin' the weight of the news sink in. It wasn't just excitement; there was a lot to think about. Her body was changin', her emotions were all over the place, and she was startin' to realize that life was never gonna be the same. Part of her was thrilled, but another part of her was nervous.

One mornin', as Nicole sat at the kitchen table, drinkin' her tea, Devin came up behind her, kissin' her softly on the cheek. "Mornin', beautiful. How you feelin' today?"

Nicole smiled, feelin' the warmth of his affection. "I'm okay. Just tryin' to get used to all the changes, I guess."

Devin sat down across from her, his eyes full of concern. "You been feelin' okay, though? No sickness or nothin'?"

Nicole shook her head. "No, I've been fine, just a little tired. But I think that's normal."

Devin nodded, relieved. "Good. I been readin' up on what to expect, and I wanna make sure you feelin' your best."

Nicole chuckled, appreciatin' his effort. "You already readin' baby books?"

Devin grinned, leanin' back in his chair. "You know I gotta be prepared. I wanna be the best dad I can be."

Nicole's heart swelled at his words. "You already gon' be a great dad, Dev. I know that."

The Reality Sets In

As the weeks went on, the reality of their new journey started to settle in for both of them. Nicole began to feel the first signs of pregnancy—tiredness, cravings, and the subtle changes in her body that reminded her every day that she was growin' a little life inside her. It was both amazin' and overwhelming at the same time.

One afternoon, Nicole sat on the couch, scrollin' through baby names on her phone. She had never really thought about names before, but now, with the baby on the way, it felt like somethin' important to figure out.

Devin walked in, noticin' what she was doin', and sat down beside her. "Already lookin' at names?"

Nicole smiled, noddin'. "Yeah, I figured we should start thinkin' about it. You got any ideas?"

Devin rubbed his chin, thinkin' for a moment. "I don't know. I ain't thought too deep about it yet. But I kinda like somethin' strong, you know? Somethin' that means somethin'."

Nicole nodded, scrollin' through more names. "Yeah, I want that too. Somethin' with meaning."

They spent the next hour talkin' about names, throwin' out ideas, laughin' when one of them suggested somethin' too out there. It was a lighthearted moment, but it also made everything feel real—like they were really gettin' ready to welcome this little person into their lives.

A Check-In With Tasha

Later that week, Nicole met up with her best friend, Tasha, for lunch. It had been a while since they caught up, and Nicole was excited to share the news with her.

As they sat down at their usual spot, Tasha gave Nicole a curious look. "Girl, you look like you got some big news. Spill it."

Nicole grinned, her hand restin' on her stomach. "Well...I'm pregnant."

Tasha's eyes widened, and she let out a squeal of excitement. "What?! Nic! Oh my God, I'm so happy for you!"

Nicole laughed, feelin' the warmth of her friend's excitement. "I know, I can hardly believe it myself."

Tasha shook her head, still grinnin'. "I can't believe it. You 'bout to be somebody's mama! How's Devin takin' the news?"

Nicole smiled, her heart full. "He's over the moon. I don't think I've ever seen him so happy. He's been takin' care of me, readin' baby books, the whole nine yards."

Tasha nodded, laughin'. "I knew he would be. Y'all gon' be the best parents, I just know it."

Nicole felt a wave of pride and excitement wash over her. It felt good to hear that—especially from someone who knew her so well. But there was still a part of her that was nervous, wonderin' if she really was ready for all the changes that were comin'.

Endin' the Day on a High Note

That night, after a long day, Nicole and Devin sat on the couch together, unwindin' from the busyness of life. Nicole leaned her head on Devin's shoulder, her heart feelin' full as she thought about all the love and support they had from each other, from their friends, and now, the new life they were bringin' into the world.

"You feelin' okay?" Devin asked softly, his hand restin' on her stomach.

Nicole nodded, smilin'. "Yeah, I'm feelin' good. Just a little tired, but it's worth it."

Devin smiled, kissin' her forehead. "I'm so excited for us, Nic. I can't wait to meet our baby."

Nicole's heart swelled at his words. She felt a mix of emotions—excitement, nerves, love—but in that moment, all she could feel was happiness. They were startin' somethin' new, somethin' beautiful, and no matter what, she knew they would face it all together.