The sun hangs low in the sky as the sound of car tires crunching on the gravel announces the arrival of my parents. I feel a strange sense of relief wash over me. Maybe having them here will serve as a buffer, diluting the tension that Helen’s presence always brings. But at the same time, I know my mom will fuss over me, her worries a constant companion ever since I told her I was pregnant.
Ryan is the first to notice their arrival, glancing out the window as he finishes unpacking the last of my things. "Your parents are here," he says softly, turning toward me with a small smile. There's warmth in his eyes, a silent offer of support. I nod, returning his smile even though my stomach is a bundle of nerves.
"I’ll go meet them downstairs," I tell him. "They'll probably want to check on me
