One Night

Meeting Kody

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the backyard of Kylie Cantrall and Malia Baker's home. It was a perfect Saturday afternoon, and the family was enjoying a rare moment of relaxation together. Ava was sprawled out on a picnic blanket, engrossed in a new book, while Kylie and Malia exchanged glances filled with excitement and a hint of nervousness.

"Are you ready for this?" Malia asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Kylie nodded, her heart racing. "We've been planning it for weeks. I can't believe today is finally the day."

They had decided to tell Ava that she was going to be a big sister, a revelation they hoped would fill their daughter's heart with joy. After months of anticipation, they were finally ready to share the news.

Malia walked over to Ava, crouching down to her level. "Hey, sweetheart. Can you put your book down for a second? We have something special to talk about."

Ava looked up, curiosity sparking in her eyes. "What is it, Mom?"

Kylie joined them, her heart fluttering with excitement. "We have some big news to share with you."

"Is it about school? Or the puppy?" Ava asked, her mind racing with possibilities.

Kylie chuckled softly. "It's even bigger than that. We want you to know that you're going to be a big sister!"

Ava's eyes widened, her expression shifting from confusion to delight. "Really? A big sister? Like, for real?"

Malia nodded, her smile widening. "Yes! We're going to have a baby, and you'll be the best big sister ever."

For a moment, Ava was speechless, her mouth opening and closing as she processed the news. Then, a wide grin broke across her face. "This is amazing! When is the baby coming?"

Kylie and Malia exchanged relieved glances, thrilled by Ava's enthusiastic response. "In a few months," Kylie explained. "But there's a lot to do before then, and we want you to be a big part of it."

Ava bounced on the blanket, her excitement infectious. "What do we need to do? Can I help pick out baby names?"

"Absolutely!" Malia said, joining in on the excitement. "We'll need your help with everything—picking out clothes, decorating the nursery, and even helping us choose the name."

Ava clapped her hands, her eyes shining. "Can we name the baby something cool? Like Star or Rocket?"

Kylie laughed, kneeling beside her. "Those are great suggestions! But we can also look at more traditional names if you want."

Ava thought for a moment. "What about Luna for a girl? Or maybe Leo for a boy? I like those!"

"Those are beautiful names, Ava," Malia said, her heart swelling with pride. "You're already such a great big sister."

As they chatted about potential names, Ava's curiosity led her to another question. "But what if the baby cries all the time? I don't know how to take care of a baby!"

Kylie wrapped an arm around Ava, comforting her. "That's what we're here for! We'll all learn together. You'll be right by our side, and we'll show you how to help."

Ava nodded, still processing the whirlwind of emotions. "I can't believe I'm going to have a sibling! This is so cool!" She jumped up, spinning in delight. "I'm going to be the best big sister ever!"

Malia beamed at Kylie, their hearts overflowing with love and happiness. "We're so proud of you, Ava. This is a big change, but we know you'll handle it wonderfully."

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the yard, the three of them sat together on the picnic blanket, talking and dreaming about the future. They envisioned playdates, sibling adventures, and the beautiful chaos of family life that awaited them.

"Can we tell everyone now?" Ava asked, her excitement bubbling over.

"Of course!" Kylie said. "We can call Grandma and everyone else to share the news."

Ava leapt to her feet, her face lit up with joy. "I can't wait to tell them! I'm going to be a big sister!"

As the evening air cooled around them, the warmth of their shared joy filled the space. In that moment, they knew that this journey was just beginning, and together, they would embrace every step along the way, united as a family ready for all the adventures ahead.