Forbidden Fruit (gxg)

Part 25

In the weeks after saying "I love you" to Kori, our relationship seemed to reach new heights. Even though our relationship was sworn to secrecy, I felt more connected with her than ever.

Toward the end of March, I went to my parents for a family dinner one night, and I called Kori on the way.

"I wouldn't say I'm the most excited to see them," I said to Kori, "Of course, I'm looking forward to seeing my sisters and brother in law, but I'm always apprehensive to see my parents."

"Rightfully so, considering everything you've been through. I get it, I also get apprehensive to see my folks. They're coming to town next month and I'm already dreading it. Not trying to make this about me, just telling you I relate."

"I know you relate and I always appreciate you understanding," I said to Kori, "When exactly are your parents coming into town next month?"

"On the 10th to the 17th. I'll have to get dinner with them at least once."

"Having strained relationships with our parents is so fun, isn't it?" I joked sarcastically.

I could tell Kori was rolling her eyes as she said, "Just the best."

Dinner at my parents, however, took a turn in a very positive way.

Alyssa announced that she was pregnant.

The six of us were eating, and she simply said, "I wanted to tell you all, I'm pregnant."

My mom gasped and dropped her fork, "What?? Are you serious?"

Alyssa smiled and nodded, "Completely serious."

My dads eyes immediately went glossy as he said, "I am so happy for you."

There was a time period when I was younger when Alyssa used to say that if she ever had kids, she wouldn't want our parents to be involved, ever. Addison used to get mad at her for saying it, but I always understood.

Now our dad was sober, and I knew Alyssa would be comfortable with my parents being involved.

"Oh, this is so exciting!" my mom said as she wiped her eyes, "Our first grandbaby to the family!"

I smiled at Alyssa and Damon, "Congratulations. You're going to make wonderful parents."

Alyssa smiled back at me, "Thanks, Ash."

Most of the time when I left my parents, I felt a pit in my stomach for no particular reason. This time, I felt happy as I left. I was going to be an aunt.

This will be really good for our family. Healing, even.

Kori seemed especially happy for me when I told her that I was going to be an aunt.

"Oh, it's the best," she said, "Being an aunt is wonderful."

The next day at work I was telling Grace that I was going to be an aunt when Kori walked into the department. She walked over to Grace and I, and gave us a look that said, "Why aren't you doing any work?".

Sometimes it's quite funny having my girlfriend be my boss.

Grace seemed to know the look, because she said, "Kori, Ashley was just telling me that she's going to be an aunt! How exciting, right?"

Kori looked at me and said, "That's really exciting, congratulations, Ashley."

It's always so weird hearing her call me "Ashley" at work and not "Ash".

I smiled at Kori, like she wasn't the first person I had told this news to and said, "Thanks, Kori. I appreciate it."

Kori held my gaze for a split second, however before she could say anything, Lisa walked up to the department and said, "Kori, there you are! I need your help with something. Can we go to your office?"