Monday morning arrives with a sense of quiet urgency. I wake earlier than usual, my mind already racing with the thought of Ryan and the decision I’ve made. Today, I’m going to call him and invite him to the doctor’s appointment. It’s a step I need to take, not just for myself but for the baby. If Ryan wants to be involved, this will be his first real opportunity to show it. But still, the nerves twist inside me. What if he backs out? What if he doesn’t show up?
After taking a deep breath, I pick up my phone and scroll through my contacts until I land on Ryan’s name. My finger hovers over it for a moment before I press call. The line rings once, twice, and then I hear his voice.
"Tess?" His tone is surprised but warm, a mixture of curiosity and hope. "I wasn’t expecting your call."
"Hi,
