Unexpected Love

Chapter 30

The soft light from the nursery lamp cast a gentle, golden glow across the room as Derek and Meredith stood hand-in-hand, taking in the space that would soon hold their son. The room was a labor of love they'd poured their hearts into over the past few weeks, painting the walls a off-white color, selecting each piece of furniture carefully, and adorning the space with details that reflected the quiet, loving life they wanted for their growing family.

As they lingered together, Derek's fingers brushed against the small kicks of their baby, his gaze on Meredith. A playful smile crept onto his face, and he broke the comfortable silence. "So," he started, his voice warm and soft, "have you thought about names? We're down to the wire, you know."

Meredith's lips curved into a grin as she rubbed her hand over her belly, feeling the gentle pressure of their baby moving under her touch. "I've thought about it a little," she admitted, her eyes shining. "But honestly, I wanted us to choose something that feels right together. I want his name to mean something to both of us."

Derek leaned against the crib, considering her words, his eyes warm and thoughtful. "Something classic, but strong," he said, letting the ideas swirl around in his mind before he offered a suggestion. "How do you feel about Sean?"

Meredith tilted her head, the name rolling over in her mind. "Sean... I like it," she said slowly, a smile spreading across her face as she thought about the strength and gentleness it held. "It's gentle, but there's a strength to it too. It suits him, I think."

Derek's eyes softened as he seemed to picture their little boy with the name. "Then, how about a middle name?" he asked, glancing at her. "I was thinking maybe... Michael, after my dad." He paused, meeting her gaze with a tender look. "If that's okay with you?"

Meredith's expression softened as she saw the flicker of emotion in Derek's eyes, the hint of longing that surfaced whenever he mentioned his late father. She reached out, her fingers closing gently around his. "Michael," she repeated, savoring the sound of it. "I love it. Sean Michael Shepherd. It has a beautiful ring to it."

Derek moved closer, placing his hand over hers as it rested on her belly, his smile warm and proud. "You hear that, little guy? Sean Michael. You've already got a name that means the world to us."

They shared a quiet laugh, each of them lost in thoughts about the little boy growing inside her. They began to imagine who he might be, letting their hopes and dreams unfurl in whispers. Would he have Derek's intense focus, or maybe Meredith's curious spirit? Would he grow up to be thoughtful and compassionate, or perhaps a little mischievous like his sister?

Meredith's mind wandered to all the milestones they would share, the tiny moments that would make up a lifetime. She pictured Derek reading bedtime stories to Sean the way he did with Crystal, that same gentle patience and warmth. She imagined first words, first steps, and all the laughter that would fill this very room.

As if reading her thoughts, Derek wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close. "I can't wait to meet him, to watch him grow up right here with us. I hope he knows how loved he already is."

They glanced around the nursery, admiring all the small touches that would soon be a part of Sean's world. On one wall hung a small framed sketch that Derek had done, depicting a calm, forested scene—the kind of place where he'd always found peace. A cozy rocking chair sat by the window, ready for countless nights of holding and soothing. And on a small shelf, there was a collection of books that they'd already begun reading to him, hoping he could hear their voices, wrapping him in love before he even entered the world.

Derek's phone buzzed suddenly on the dresser, and they both glanced at it. It was a message from Carolyn, asking if she could swing by tomorrow to bring over something she'd been working on for the nursery. Derek read the message aloud, chuckling. "Your grandmother's already spoiling you, Sean," he said, his tone both proud and amused.