Victoria stood near the arrivals gate at the airport, tapping her foot nervously against the polished floor. Her eyes scanned the crowd anxiously until she spotted a familiar figure rushing toward her—Emily, with her bright smile and hurried steps.
The moment Emily saw her, she broke into a run. She crashed into Victoria, wrapping her in a tight, fierce hug. For a few seconds, Victoria let herself melt into the embrace, but then Emily suddenly pulled back, her eyes dropping to Victoria’s belly.
“Oh God—did I hug you too tight?” Emily asked, worry flashing across her face.
Victoria chuckled softly, placing a protective hand over her stomach. “I think the baby won’t mind its aunt hugging it so dearly.”
Emily smiled, but it was tinged with hesitation. “So… you’re keeping it?”
Victoria’s
