Vanessa sat on a weathered wooden bench in the middle of the lush green park, her hands resting gently on her growing belly. The late afternoon sun cast golden hues across the manicured lawns and the shimmering pond in the distance. Birds chirped from the towering trees above, and laughter from children playing nearby filled the air. It was peaceful, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions stirring within her.
Nick arrived moments later, carrying two cups of coffee from a nearby stand. He handed one to Vanessa before settling beside her. "Decaf," he said with a small smile, aware of her limitations now that she was pregnant.
She took the cup, appreciating the warmth in her fingers. "Thank you."
They sat in companionable silence for a moment, watching a young couple push their todd
