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The apartment smelled faintly of freshly brewed coffee, and the early evening light cast a golden glow through the windows. Across the room, Meredith stood at the counter, her back to him, rinsing dishes with the same distracted energy Brad had felt all day. She'd been quiet since their appointment with the specialist, her movements careful, as if saying or doing the wrong thing might shatter something between them.

"I can't believe it," Meredith said softly, her voice breaking the silence. She placed a glass in the drying rack and turned to face him, her hands still wet. "I mean, I knew it was a possibility, but to hear it like that..." She trailed off, shaking her head.

Brad looked up, his heart twisting at the sight of her teary eyes. "Mer, it's not your fault," he said, his voice rough but steady.

"I know that," she replied quickly, brushing her hands on a dish towel. "But it feels like it is. I wanted this so badly, Brad. For us. For you. And now." She bit her lip and dropped into the chair across from him. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't be dumping this on you."

Brad reached across the table, his rough, calloused hand covering hers. "You're not dumping anything. This is both of us, remember? We're in this together."

Meredith nodded, but her face crumpled, and she let out a shaky breath. "I just—| feel like I failed you."

Brad leaned forward, his grip tightening. "Don't say that. You didn't fail anyone. This is just something we didn't see coming. But we'll figure it out. We always do."

Silence stretched between them, the weight of the conversation pressing down on Brad's chest.

He glanced at the brochures again, thinking about all the possibilities they'd spent the last year discussing-donor eggs, surrogacy, adoption. None of it felt riaht. None of it felt like them.

"Maybe..." Brad began, then stopped, his stomach twisting.

Meredith tilted her head, her gaze softening as she noticed his hesitation. "What is it?"

Brad took a deep breath, forcing himself to look her in the eye. "Maybe we don't need someone else to carry the baby."

Meredith frowned, confusion crossing her face.

"What do you mean?"

Brad cleared his throat, his nerves betraying him.

"I mean... what if I carried it?"

The room fell silent. Meredith's lips parted in shock, and for a moment, she looked like she wasn't sure she'd heard him correctly.

"Brad..." she whispered, her voice barely audible.

He rushed to fill the silence, afraid of what her reaction might be. "Look, I know it's not... ideal. And trust me, it's not something I ever thought l'd suggest. But l've still got the parts, right? And if it means we can have a baby that's ours-really ours—then maybe it's worth thinking about."

Meredith's hand flew to her mouth, her eyes welling with fresh tears. "You'd do that? For me?"

"For us," Brad corrected, his voice firm. "But yeah. I'd do it."

She reached across the table, her fingers trembling as they found his. "Brad, that's... I don't even know what to say. It's so much to ask, and I don't want you to feel like you have to—"

"I know," Brad interrupted gently. "I know what it would mean. I'd have to go off T, and my body would change, and there'd be... other stuff. But if it's the only way, I think I could handle it. For you. For the baby."

Meredith broke into a soft sob, and Brad stood, moving around the table to pull her into his arms. She buried her face in his chest, clutching his shirt as if he might disappear.

"I love you so much," she murmured through her tears.

"I love you too," Brad replied, his chin resting on top of her head. "And we're going to get through this. Together."

For the first time since they'd left the specialist's office, Brad felt a glimmer of hope. It wasn't going to be easy, and there were a million questions still unanswered, but as he held Meredith close, he knew one thing for certain: they'd do whatever it took to build the family they both dreamed of.

The apartment felt unusually quiet as Brad sat cross-legged on the couch, a mug of coffee balanced on his knee. Meredith was curled up at the other end, her laptop perched on her thighs, scrolling through a fertility forum with a pensive look on her face.

"So," she began, breaking the silence, "we're really doing this."

Brad glanced at her, the weight of her words sinking in. "Yeah," he said softly. "We are."

Meredith set her laptop aside and tucked her legs beneath her. "Okay. Then we need to talk about the next step."

Brad raised an eyebrow, waiting for her to continue.

"The method of conception," she clarified, her cheeks flushing slightly.

Brad rubbed the back of his neck, already feeling the awkwardness creeping in. "Right. That."

Meredith hesitated, chewing on her bottom lip.

"I've been thinking... I don't want this to feel... clinical. Like, I know we could go through a sperm bank or a clinic, but that just doesn't feel like us."

Brad nodded slowly, his own thoughts mirroring hers. "Yeah. It's not like we're trying to keep this detached. It's our baby, and I want the whole thing to feel as real as possible. Like... I don't know. Like it's ours from the start."

Meredith's lips curved into a small smile. "Exactly. Which means we need to find someone we know. Someone we trust. Someone who could... you know, actually help us conceive naturally."

Brad's stomach did a little flip at the word

"naturally" but he pushed past it. "Right. So... who?"

They sat in silence for a moment, the question hanging heavily in the air.

"Well," Meredith started, tapping her fingers against her knee, "it has to be someone who understands us. Someone we're both comfortable with, and someone we wouldn't mind... seeing in our kid."

Brad snorted, trying to lighten the mood. "So, someone with decent genetics and a good personality. No pressure."

Meredith laughed, the tension easing slightly.

"Exactly. Any ideas?"

Brad thought for a moment, his mind scrolling through the roster of men in their lives. "What about Adam?"

Meredith wrinkled her nose. "Your co-worker? The one who thinks pineapple belongs on pizza?"

Brad chuckled. "Fair point. Scratch Adam."

They continued tossing out names, each suggestion met with a mix of humor and seriousness. There was Greg, Meredith's cousin, who was immediately vetoed because "that's too weird." Then there was Jared, one of Brad's old college buddies, who was ruled out for being "too flaky."

Finally, Meredith paused, her expression thoughtful. "What about Caleb?"

Brad raised an eyebrow. "Caleb? From your art class?"

"Yeah," Meredith said, her voice growing more animated. "He's smart, kind, super chill. And, not to be shallow, but he's good-looking. I mean, if we're talking about genetics..."

Brad considered it, his mind flickering through his limited interactions with Caleb. He was one of those effortlessly charismatic people who made everyone feel at ease. A genuinely good guy.

"Yeah," Brad said slowly. "I can see that. He'd be a good fit."

Meredith leaned forward, her eyes searching his.

"Are you sure? I know this is a lot, and I don't want you to feel like you re being pushed into something you're not comfortable with."

Brad hesitated, the words catching in his throat.

"It's not that I'm uncomfortable," he said finally.

"It's just... weird, I guess. I've never been with a guy before, and I don't see them that way. But..." He paused, rubbing his hands together. "I don't know. There's something about this. It's not like I'm attracted to Caleb, but the idea of being close to him, of creating this life together... it doesn't feel as strange as I thought it would."

Meredith's eyes softened, and she reached out to take his hand. "Brad, you're amazing, you know that? Most people wouldn't even consider this, let alone talk about it so openly."

Brad shrugged, a faint blush creeping up his neck. "I just want this to work. For us. For the baby."

Meredith squeezed his hand, her voice filled with quiet determination. "Then let's talk to Caleb. If he's willing, we'll figure it out together."

Brad nodded, a mix of nervousness and hope swelling in his chest. This wasn't how he'd ever imagined building a family, but as he looked at Meredith, he knew one thing for certain: he'd do whatever it took to make their dream a reality.

Brad tapped his fingers against the steering wheel as he parked the car outside Caleb's loft.

The late afternoon sunlight glinted off the glass windows of the old brick building, giving it a warm, golden glow.

"Are you sure he's home?" Brad asked, glancing at Meredith.

She nodded, fidgeting with the strap of her purse.

"Yeah. I texted him earlier. He's expecting us."

Brad exhaled slowly, gripping the wheel. "Right. Let's do this, then."

Inside, Caleb greeted them with his usual easygoing smile, dressed in paint-streaked jeans and a loose t-shirt. His art studio was filled with canvases in various stages of completion, the smell of acrylics and turpentine hanging faintly in the air.

"Hey, guys! What's up?" Caleb asked, ushering them to a small sitting area near the windows.

Meredith and Brad exchanged a glance before Meredith started. "So, um... this might be a little out of left field, but we wanted to talk to you about something important."

Caleb's smile faltered slightly as he noticed the serious tone in her voice. "Okay..."

Brad jumped in, his voice steady but slightly strained. "We've been trying to have a baby, but it turns out Meredith can't conceive. So, after a lot of talking and thinking... we decided to explore other options."

Caleb nodded slowly, his brow furrowing. "Like adoption or something?"

"Not exactly," Meredith said. "We're looking for someone to be the biological father. And Brad is going to carry the baby."

Caleb blinked, clearly caught off guard. "Oh."

"And, well..." Brad hesitated, then pushed forward. "We were hoping you might consider being that person."

The room went quiet. Caleb leaned back in his chair, processing the unexpected request.

"Wow," he said after a moment, running a hand through his hair. "I mean, I'm honored you'd even think of me, and that's... a lot to take in."

"We know," Meredith said quickly. "And we're not asking you to decide right now. We just wanted to talk to you about it and see if it's something you'd even consider."

Caleb nodded slowly, his eyes flicking between the two of them. "Okay. So, if I said yes... how would this work? Like, medically?"

Brad shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his fingers tightening on the edge of his chair. "Actually, we were thinking about doing it... naturally."

Caleb's eyes widened. "Naturally? As in..."

"As in, yeah," Brad said, his voice firm despite the awkwardness. "We just feel like it would be more personal that way. Less clinical. I'm nervous enough as is."

Caleb stared at him, his expression a mixture of surprise and confusion. "Wow. Uh, okay. That's... a lot to wrap my head around. No offense, but l'm straight, Brad, and the idea of being with you, Brad, it's... confusing. I'm not saying no, and I really want to be able to help you guys out, but, it's a lot."

Brad nodded, his jaw tightening. "I get that. Trust me, it's not exactly my dream scenario either. But it's not about attraction or anything like that. It's about making a baby. That's it. You got the plumbing I need to make it happen."

Meredith jumped in, her tone soft but reassuring.

"We completely understand if it's too much. We just wanted to ask you because we trust you, and we think you'd be an amazing choice."

Caleb leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "I need to think about this. It's not a 'no,' but I just... need some time to wrap my head around everything."

"Of course," Meredith said, offering him a small smile. "Take all the time you need."

Brad nodded, his voice quieter now. "Thanks for even considering it, man."

Back at home, Meredith sat on the couch, watching Brad pace the living room.

"Well, that went about as well as I expected," he muttered, running a hand through his short hair.

"He didn't say no," Meredith pointed out, her voice carefully neutral.

"Yeah. That's something." Brad stopped pacing and sat down beside her, his expression softening. "Honestly, though? I think he'll say yes. Caleb's a good guy. He'd do this for us."

Meredith nodded, but her mind was elsewhere.

She'd noticed the way Brad's voice had lit up when he talked about the process—the way his awkwardness gave way to a quiet excitement as he explained things to Caleb.

And then there was the way he'd phrased it. *"It's not about attraction. It's about making a baby."*

Meredith believed him. She knew Brad wasn't attracted to men. But something about his hidden enthusiasm unsettled her. The idea of him being intimate with someone else, even in the context of conception, gnawed at her in ways she hadn't anticipated.

"Hey," Brad said, nudging her shoulder. "You okay?"

Meredith forced a smile. "Yeah. Just tired."

Brad leaned back, stretching his arms over the back of the couch. "It's gonna work out. I can feel it. I think this baby is going to happen."

She nodded again, the smile still plastered on her face. "I hope so."

But as Brad started talking about what it might be like to carry the baby, Meredith found herself sinking deeper into her thoughts. The jealousy, unspoken and irrational, coiled in her chest, refusing to let go.

Brad stood in the bathroom, staring at his reflection in the mirror. His hand lingered over his flat stomach, his mind racing. He imagined what it would feel like, growing a baby inside him— *their* baby. He wasn't sure why, but the thought didn't scare him as much as he'd expected.

"Brad?" Meredith's voice floated through the apartment, pulling him out of his thoughts.

"Yeah?"

"Can you come here for a second?"

He left the bathroom and found Meredith sitting at the kitchen table, flipping through her planner.

A faint line creased her brow, the same one that appeared whenever she was deep in thought.

"Everything okay?" he asked, sliding into the seat across from her.

Meredith nodded, though her smile seemed forced. "Yeah. I was just going over the calendar, thinking about how all of this might work. Timing and everything."

Brad tilted his head. "You mean if Caleb says yes?"

"Yeah."

He leaned back in his chair, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "It's kind of wild, isn't it?

The idea of us having a baby. Like, it's actually happening."

Meredith's grip on her pen tightened. "Yeah.

Wild."

Brad didn't seem to notice the tension in her voice. "I've been reading about pregnancy stuff," he said, his voice gaining an edge of excitement.

"Did you know the baby's heartbeat starts at six weeks? That's so early. And cravings? Apparently, they can be totally random. I might end up eating something weird like pickles and peanut butter."

Meredith forced a laugh, but her chest ached as she listened. Brad's enthusiasm was infectious, but it only made the knot in her stomach grow tighter.

"What if it's twins?" Brad continued, grinning now. "Can you imagine? Two little versions of us running around?"

Meredith looked down at the planner, her hands trembling slightly. "It's a lot to think about," she murmured.

Brad's grin faded, and he leaned forward, concern flickering in his eyes. "Hey, are you okay? You've been quiet since we talked to Caleb."

Meredith hesitated, the words bubbling up in her throat, but she swallowed them down. How could she tell him? How could she admit that the thought of him being with Caleb, or anyone else, made her stomach twist with jealousy? That even though she knew it was necessary, it still hurt?

"I'm fine," she said, forcing another smile. "Just... processing, I guess. It's a big step."

Brad nodded, his expression softening. "Yeah. It is. But it's a good step, right? For us?"

"Of course," Meredith said quickly. "I want this as much as you do."

Brad reached across the table, covering her hand with his. "I know. And I appreciate everything you're doing to make this happen. We're a team, remember?"

"Yeah," Meredith whispered. "A team."

The sound of Brad's phone buzzing broke the moment. He pulled it from his pocket, his eyebrows shooting up when he saw the name on the screen.

"It's Caleb," he said, glancing at Meredith.

Her heart skipped a beat. "Well? Answer it!"

Brad swiped to accept the call, putting it on speaker. "Hey, Caleb."

"Hey," Caleb's voice came through, calm but with an edge of resolve. "I've been thinking a lot about what you guys asked me. Can you come over? I want to talk."

Brad glanced at Meredith, who nodded. "Yeah, sure. We'll be there in twenty minutes."

"Great. See you soon."

The line went dead, and Brad stood, a mix of nervousness and excitement on his face. "This is it. He's made a decision."

Meredith followed him to the door, her emotions swirling. She wanted this-she truly did. But as they stepped out into the evening air, she couldn't help but feel like something fragile was teetering on the edge, ready to shatter.

Caleb greeted them at the door, ushering them inside with a steady, determined energy. He gestured for them to sit on the couch, then took a seat across from them.

"I'm not going to lie," he began, rubbing his hands together. "This is one of the most unexpected things anyone's ever asked me. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized how much this means to you both. And, well.." He looked up, meeting their eyes. "I'm in. I'll do it."

Relief and gratitude flooded Brad's face, and he broke into a wide smile. "Caleb, thank you. You have no idea what this means to us."

Meredith echoed his sentiment, her voice steady despite the complicated emotions churning inside her. "We're so grateful, Caleb. Thank you."

Caleb nodded, a small smile on his lips. "You're welcome. I'll admit, it's still a bit strange for me, but I want to help you guys. So, let's figure out how to make this work."

Brad reached over and squeezed Meredith's hand, his excitement palpable. But as Caleb talked logistics, Meredith's smile faltered, just for a moment. She quickly masked it, hoping no one had noticed. Because deep down, she wasn't sure how much longer she could keep her feelings buried.

Brad and Caleb met at Caleb's loft every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening. The loft, with its large windows and open layout, was transformed into a makeshift sanctuary for their purpose. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and the subtle scent of lavender created an environment that was both inviting and intimate.

At first, the meetings were strictly clinical. They discussed schedules, routines, and the practical aspects of conceiving naturally. Brad approached each meeting with a mixture of determination and nervousness, while Caleb maintained a respectful distance, honoring the boundaries they had all set.

"Do you feel okay with how things are progressing?" Brad asked Caleb one evening as they sat side by side on the plush sofa.

Caleb nodded, his fingers absently tracing the rim of his coffee mug. "Yeah, I do. It's a bit strange, but I'm committed to helping you guys out. If this is what it takes, then I'm in."

Brad offered a grateful smile. "Thanks, Caleb. It means a lot to both of us."

Brad found himself looking forward to the evenings with Caleb. He liked how Caleb made him feel. It was a feeling he had never gotten from being with women.

Back at home, Meredith watched the dynamic between Brad and Caleb with a mixture of pride and unease. She was thrilled that Brad had found someone willing to help them conceive, but she couldn't shake the feeling of jealousy that gnawed at her. Brad seemed to like this process a little too much.

One evening, Meredith sat alone in their bedroom, flipping through a magazine but finding no solace in the images before her. Brad entered the room, wiping his hands on a towel after a shower.

"Hey, how was your day?" he asked, pulling a chair to sit beside her.

Meredith forced a smile. "It was fine. Just the usual stuff."

Brad noticed the subtle tension in her voice and reached out to take her hand. "Is everything okay? You seem a bit off."

She hesitated, the words caught in her throat.

"I'm just... thinking about everything. It's a lot to handle. I can't believe you might really be pregnant soon."

Brad squeezed her hand gently. "I know it is. And I want you to know that I'm here for you, no matter what. I can't believe it either."

Meredith nodded, appreciating his support but unable to voice the turmoil inside her. She loved Brad deeply and wanted nothing more than to build a family with him, but seeing him grow closer to Caleb stirred emotions she couldn't easily dismiss.

As the conception process continued, Brad and Caleb found themselves enjoying their time together more than either had anticipated. Their meetings became a highlight of the week, filled with passion and determination neither of them had in other parts of their lives.

One Tuesday evening, after a particularly messy session, Brad lingered a bit longer, helping Caleb tidy up the space. They sat side by side on the couch, the silence comfortable and filled with unspoken thoughts.

"You know, Brad, I never imagined this would be so meaningful," Caleb confessed, his eyes reflecting a depth of sincerity. "Helping you guys feels right. Like I'm part of something bigger."

Caleb looked at him, a hint of vulnerability in his gaze. "I've always considered myself straight, but this experience has changed how I view things. I'm learning a lot about myself and what it means to support someone you care about."

Instead of responding, Brad got onto his knees and began tugging Caleb's pants down. It felt wrong, having sex when not scheduled, but Brad couldn't help himself. He had been having similar confusing thoughts about Caleb. All Brad knew is that he wanted Caleb inside of him, right then and there. And he was already sleeping with the guy, so short notice sex shouldn't be any different. That was until each session was followed by more and more unplanned, spur of the moment sessions.

The morning after one of their sessions, Brad woke with a queasy stomach. He stumbled to the bathroom, his head spinning, and barely made it to the sink before the nausea overwhelmed him.

"Brad?" Meredith called from the bedroom.

"I'm okay," he managed, though his voice wavered.

She appeared in the doorway, concern etched on her face. "You don't look okay."

"It's probably just something late," he said, splashing water on his face.

But as the days went on, the queasiness persisted, especially in the mornings. Meredith began to watch him more closely, her worry gradually giving way to cautious optimism.

"You should take a test," she suggested one evening, handing him a small box.

Brad hesitated, the weight of the moment sinking in. "You think...?"

"It's worth checking," she said, her voice filled with hope.

Brad locked himself in the bathroom, his heart pounding as he stared at the row of pregnancy tests lined up on the counter. One by one, he dipped them into the small cup of urine, setting each down with trembling hands.

The first test began to process, then the second, and the third. By the time the fifth test was complete, Brad's breath hitched in his throat.

All five were positive.

He opened the bathroom door, his face a mixture of shock and joy. "Meredith," he called softly.

She appeared in an instant, her eyes widening as she saw the tests in his hands. "Is it..?"

"I'm pregnant," Brad said, his voice barely above a whisper.

A wide smile spread across Meredith's face, and she threw her arms around him, laughing and crying all at once. "We're going to have a baby!"

Brad held her tightly, the reality of their dream finally sinking in. But as he glanced over her shoulder, a small voice in the back of his mind whispered that his time with Caleb-those strangely intimate, unexpectedly meaningful evenings-was now over. He was going to really miss the sex.

And though he felt relief, there was also a hint of something else, something he couldn't quite name.

Brad sat at the edge of the bed, the phone trembling in his hand. Meredith stood nearby, arms crossed, her expression firm but not unkind.

"You sure you don't want me to say it?" she offered gently.

"No," Brad replied, his voice steadier than he expected. "It should come from me."

He dialed Caleb's number, his heart pounding as he listened to the line ring. After a moment, Caleb picked up.

"Brad? Everything okay?" Caleb's voice was warm, tinged with curiosity.

"Yeah," Brad began, swallowing hard. "Actually, I have some news. I'm... I'm pregnant."

The pause on the other end felt eternal, though it was only a second.

"That's amazing," Caleb finally said, and Brad could hear the smile in his voice.

"Congratulations. Both of you."

"Thank you," Brad replied, glancing at Meredith, who nodded encouragingly. "And, um... we wanted to say thank you for everything you've done. This wouldn't have been possible without you."

Caleb's tone softened. "You don't have to thank me. I'm just glad I could help."

Brad hesitated, the words catching in his throat. Meredith stepped closer, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"We've decided," Brad continued, his voice quieter now, "that we're not going to ask you to be part of the baby's life. Meredith and I want to handle things on our own from here."

There was a pause, and then Caleb spoke, his tone understanding. "I figured as much. Meredith mentioned that might be the plan."

Brad winced, guilt twisting in his chest. "It's not because of anything you did. You were... amazing. More than I could have asked for. It's just-"

"Hey," Caleb interrupted gently. "You don't have to explain. I get it. This was always your journey. I'm just glad I could be a part of it, even for a little while."

Brad felt a lump rise in his throat. "I'm going to miss you," he admitted softly.

Caleb's response was kind but firm. "You've got this, Brad. And you've got Meredith. Focus on what's ahead. You're going to be a great dad."

As the call ended, Brad set the phone down and stared at it for a long moment. Meredith sat beside him, squeezing his hand.

"You okay?" she asked.

"I guess," he said, though his chest felt heavy.

"It's just... I didn't think it'd be this hard. Caleb made this whole thing feel... easier, somehow. He was so good at-" Brad stopped himself, his cheeks flushing.

Meredith's eyes flickered with an emotion Brad couldn't quite place, but she said nothing.

"It's not like I wanted to be with him," Brad added quickly. "I just... he understood my body in a way l didn't expect. He made me feel-"

"Special?" Meredith finished, her voice tight.

Brad hesitated before nodding. "Yeah. And comfortable. Like even though I'm so uncomfortable with my body, I'm capable of feeling... pleasure, I guess."

Meredith stood and moved to the window, her back to him. "Well, he was great. I'm glad you had that. But now it's just us. And we're going to be fine, Brad. We're a team."

"I know," he said, though he wasn't sure he believed it yet.

That night, Brad lay awake, staring at the ceiling.

His thoughts were a jumbled mess-memories of Caleb, fears about the pregnancy, and an overwhelming sense of uncertainty.He reached over and took Meredith's hand, squeezing it tightly.

"Are you scared?" he whispered.

She turned to face him, her eyes meeting his in the dim light. "A little. But we'll figure it out."

"I'm terrified," Brad admitted, his voice breaking. "I don't know how I'm going to do this."

Meredith pulled him into her arms, holding him close. "You're not alone," she said firmly. "I'm here. We'll get through it together."

Brad clung to her, his tears soaking into her shirt. Despite everything, he knew she was right. They had each other, and they had their dream—a baby on the way.

But as he drifted off to sleep, the ghost of Caleb's touch lingered in his mind, a bittersweet reminder of what had been left behind.

Brad stood in front of the mirror, his hands tracing the faint curve of his stomach. The change was subtle-barely noticeable to anyone but him-but it was there, and it filled him with a quiet thrill.

"Meredith!" he called, his voice echoing down the hall.

Moments later, Meredith appeared in the doorway, her hair tied back and a damp dish towel slung over her shoulder. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong. Just... look." Brad gestured to his midsection, his excitement palpable. "I think there's a little bump starting."

Meredith squinted, stepping closer. "I don't know, Brad. Are you sure it's not just dinner?" she teased, a small smirk playing on her lips.

Brad rolled his eyes but grabbed her hand, pressing it gently against his stomach. "Come on. Feel it. It's different, right?"

Meredith let her hand rest there for a moment, her expression softening. "Maybe," she admitted, though she wasn't entirely convinced.

"It's definitely there," Brad said firmly, grinning as he glanced back at the mirror. "This baby is growing."

In the weeks that followed, Brad became increasingly preoccupied with his growing belly.

He took every opportunity to show it off to Meredith, eagerly lifting his shirt and asking her to touch or look, even when the changes were still subtle. Meredith found herself indulging him, her hands often resting protectively on his stomach, even when they were curled up on the couch watching TV.

"You're going to squish the baby if you lean on me like that," Brad joked one evening, though there was no seriousness in his tone.

Meredith rolled her eyes but shifted slightly, wrapping an arm around his shoulders instead.

"The baby is like the size of a bean right now. I think it'll survive."

Still, as the days passed, Meredith noticed something shifting within herself. She was growing more protective of Brad, almost possessive. She found herself opening doors for him, pulling out his chair at dinner, and insisting he take it easy even when he protested.

"Let me," she said one morning when Brad reached for the heavy grocery bag.

"I can handle it," he replied, but she gently nudged him aside.

"Just let me," she repeated, her tone leaving no room for argument.

It wasn't long before Meredith realized she liked this dynamic-being the caretaker, the one who ensured Brad and their baby were safe. It was a role she hadn't anticipated stepping into so fully, but it felt natural.

One night, as Brad lay on the couch with his head in her lap, Meredith ran her fingers through his hair and marveled at how much things had changed.

"You're different lately," Brad murmured, his eyes closed.

"How so?"

"You're... softer, but also stronger," he said, his voice laced with affection. "Like, I feel like you're taking care of me more than you used to."

Meredith paused, her fingers stilling in his hair. "Is that a bad thing?"

Brad shook his head, his lips curving into a smile.

"No. I like it." He nuzzled closer to her, pulling her hand onto his belly to rest underneath his own. Meredith felt a warmth spread through her chest. She hadn't realized how much she needed to hear that.

As Brad's excitement about the pregnancy grew, so did their closeness. They found themselves slipping into roles that felt almost reversed from what they'd known before. Meredith felt stronger, more confident in her ability to protect and support Brad, while Brad leaned into his vulnerability, trusting Meredith to guide him through the challenges ahead.

One evening, as they sat together in bed, Brad took Meredith's hand and placed it on his belly. "I know you can't feel anything yet," he said softly, "but it's nice to imagine."

Meredith smiled, her thumb brushing over his skin. "You're incredible, you know that?"

Brad laughed lightly. "I don't feel incredible. I feel... bloated."

"Well, to me, you're amazing," Meredith said, leaning down to kiss his forehead.

For the first time in weeks, neither of them thought about Caleb. Their insecurities and doubts seemed like distant memories, replaced by a growing connection that felt stronger than ever.

As Brad drifted off to sleep, Meredith lay awake, her hand still resting on his belly. She didn't know what the future held, but for the first time, she felt certain they could face it together.

The café buzzed with the low hum of conversation and the clinking of coffee cups, but Brad and Meredith barely noticed. They were too focused on each other, tucked into a booth by the window. Brad leaned back, his hand resting protectively on his rounded belly, which stretched his sweater snugly over his middle.

"You've got crumbs on your stomach," Meredith said, smirking as she reached across the table to brush them away.

"Hazards of the job," Brad quipped, grinning.

Her hand lingered for a moment, her fingers brushing over the curve of his belly. "You're so big now," she said softly, her tone a mix of awe and amusement.

"Gee, thanks," Brad teased, raising an eyebrow.

"You know I mean it in a good way," she replied, leaning closer. "You're glowing, Brad. I love seeing you like this."

Brad's cheeks flushed, but he couldn't hide his smile.

Later that evening, they lounged on the couch at home, the TV playing in the background as Meredith rubbed circles over Brad's belly.

"Did you feel that?" Brad asked suddenly, his eyes lighting up. Meredith stilled her hand, concentrating. A moment later, a tiny, distinct movement rippled under her palm.

"There it is!" she exclaimed, her face breaking into a wide smile.

Brad laughed, his own hand joining hers. "Baby's getting strong."

Meredith leaned down, pressing a kiss to his belly. "Hey, baby," she murmured. "You're really kicking tonight, huh?"

Brad watched her, his heart swelling. "You're so good with them already," he said.

"And you're doing all the hard work, babe," she replied, sitting up to meet his gaze. "You're incredible, Brad. I think it's so manly of you to do this for us."

He reached up, pulling her in for a kiss. It was soft at first, but then Meredith deepened it, her hand sliding back to rest possessively on his belly.

"You're really into this, aren't you?" Brad teased, breaking the kiss and gesturing to his stomach.

"I can't help it," Meredith admitted, her cheeks pink. "It's... hot."

Brad laughed, his eyes twinkling. "I'm not complaining."

As the night went on, their playfulness continued. When Brad tried to get up to grab a snack, Meredith stopped him.

"Stay," she ordered gently, pushing him back onto the couch. "I'll get it for you, big belly."

Brad raised an eyebrow but obeyed, his grin mischievous. "You like bossing me around now, don't you?"

Meredith smirked. "Maybe. But you like it, too."

He didn't deny it, watching her disappear into the kitchen. When she returned with a bowl of fruit, she sat beside him and fed him a piece, her eyes never leaving his.

"You're really laying it on thick tonight," Brad joked, though his voice was warm.

"Can you blame me?" she replied, her hand once again finding its way to his belly. "You're carrying our baby. You've got my whole world in your body right now. You're literally everything to me."

Brad felt a lump rise in his throat, and he reached out to pull her close. "You're everything to me, too," he said softly.

As they got ready for bed, Meredith helped Brad out of his sweater, her hands lingering on his bare stomach.

"God, you're perfect," she said, her voice low.

"Stop," Brad said, though he was clearly flattered.

"No, seriously," she insisted, dropping to her knees in front of him. She pressed a kiss just below his belly button, her hands framing the curve of his bump. "I love you like this. I love this belly. You carry it so well, too, baby."

Brad sighed contentedly, running a hand through her hair. "I love you, too," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "I love that you're attracted to me still."

They stayed like that for a long moment, wrapped in their own little world, the baby between them both physically and emotionally. As they crawled into bed that night, their hands automatically found each other, resting together over Brad's belly.

For all the changes they'd been through, one thing was clear: they were closer than ever, and they couldn't wait to meet the little life growing inside him.

The days felt longer now, stretching endlessly as Brad waddled through their small apartment. At nine months pregnant, everything felt heavier - his body, his mood, even the air around him. His optimism, once so bright and unshakable, was now dulled by discomfort and an ache he couldn't quite name.

"Hey," Meredith said softly, slipping onto the couch beside him. She placed a gentle hand on his swollen belly, her thumb brushing over the stretched fabric of his shirt. "You've been quiet today."

Brad shrugged, keeping his eyes fixed on the window. The late afternoon sunlight cast a golden glow over the room, but it did little to lift his spirits.

"Brad," she tried again, leaning closer. "Talk to me. What's going on? Is it the baby? Are you in pain?"

He sighed, finally turning to face her. The worry etched into her features made his chest tighten.

"I'm fine," he said, though his voice lacked conviction.

"You're not," she countered, her tone firm but kind. "I know you. Something's bothering you, and I want to help. Please, let me in."

Brad hesitated, his hands resting on his belly as he searched for the right words. "It's... it's hard to explain," he admitted.

Meredith waited patiently, her hand still on his belly, grounding him.

"I feel... ugly," he blurted out finally, the words tumbling from his lips like they'd been bottled up too long. "I feel huge and awkward, and I don't even recognize myself anymore."

Meredith's brow furrowed, and she shook her head. "Brad, you're not ugly. You're perfect. You're carrying our baby. That's amazing."

"I know you mean that," he said, his voice cracking. "And I appreciate it. But it's not just about how I look. It's about... how I feel."

She tilted her head, confusion flickering in her eyes. "What do you mean?"

Brad swallowed hard, his gaze dropping to his lap.

"I miss... being close. Like we used to be. And... as much as I hate to admit it, I miss what I had with Caleb."

The silence that followed was deafening.

Meredith's hand stilled on his belly, her expression unreadable.

"You miss Caleb?" she asked carefully, her voice steady but low.

"Not him," Brad clarified quickly, shaking his head. "Not him as a person. But... the way he made me feel. The way he... touched me. The way it felt."

Meredith blinked, her lips parting slightly as the realization dawned on her. "You mean...?"

Brad nodded, his face burning with shame. "It's not about wanting him back or anything like that. It's just... being with him made me feel things I didn't know I could feel. I really enjoyed it more than I felt comfortable expressing, but I really just... I want to be filled up again." He paused, his voice breaking. "I feel like I need that again. Like I need to be used in that way."

Meredith sat back, processing his words. Her initial instinct was to feel hurt, but as she looked at him - his eyes brimming with unshed tears, his body heavy with the life they'd chosen to create - she realized this wasn't about her. It wasn't about Caleb. It was about Brad, struggling with his own identity and needs in the face of monumental change.

"I don't know what to say," she admitted after a long pause. "But I'm glad you told me."

Brad nodded, his shoulders sagging with relief.

"I'm sorry if it makes you uncomfortable. I just... I needed to say it out loud."

Meredith reached out, cupping his face in her hands. "You don't have to apologize. This isn't easy for either of us, but we'll figure it out. Together. There's solutions."

"Thank you," he whispered, leaning into her touch, and keeping his hands firm on his overflowing belly.

As they sat together, the baby shifted, a strong kick jolting Brad's belly. Meredith smiled, her hand moving instinctively to the spot.

"That's amazing," she said softly. "Your body is amazing."

Brad knew she meant it, but the emotional reassurance was not what he needed. Brad wanted to be used. He wanted to be filled until he was dripping cum, until he looked another month pregnant. He'd have to work it out with Meredith, or he would be visiting an old friend.

The conversation lingered in Brad's mind all night, leaving him restless. Meredith had been kind and understanding, but her words hadn't filled the void gnawing at him. He needed more than reassurance—he needed to feel connected to his body in a way that he hadn't in months.

The next morning, as they sat at the breakfast table, the tension in Brad's chest finally boiled over.

"Mer," he began hesitantly, setting down his mug.

She looked up from her plate, instantly attuned to the serious tone in his voice. "What's wrong?"

"It's about what I said last night," he admitted, his fingers nervously tracing the rim of his mug. "I think I need to explain it better."

Meredith set her fork down, her full attention on him now. "Okay," she said softly. "I'm listening."

Brad took a deep breath, his cheeks flushing. "It's not just about feeling attractive. It's... physical. There are things I felt with Caleb that we can't replicate. Not naturally, at least."

Meredith blinked, her expression cautious but open. "You mean... the physical sensations?"

Brad nodded, his eyes darting away. "Yeah. It's not that I want him. I don't. I want you. But... those sensations, the way he made me feel... I can't stop thinking about it. And I feel like I need that. Especially now. With this huge belly, there's a lot of pressure... down there. And I want something... in there. Something like a cock."

The room fell silent as Meredith absorbed his words. She looked down at her hands, her own discomfort evident.

"I…. I don't know what to say," she admitted. "I wish you felt more attracted to me."

Brad's heart sank, but he pressed on. "I'm not saying this to hurt you. It's not that I'm not attracted to you, baby. I just... I feel like I'm going crazy. I want to feel that connection, that release, and I want it with you. But to do that, we might need to... try something new. Like you do what l'd normally do."

Meredith's eyes met his, and she could see how vulnerable he felt, how much it had taken for him to admit this.

"I know it's a lot to ask," Brad said quickly, his words tumbling over each other. "And I know it's not exactly... comfortable to talk about. But I really think it could help. I need to feel like myself again, Mer. And I need you to help me with that."

Meredith sat back, her mind racing. She'd always been the more passive one in their intimacy, content to let Brad take the lead. The idea of stepping into a more dominant role was intimidating, but as she looked at him—at the man she loved, who was carrying their baby and baring his soul to her—she knew she couldn't say no.

"Okay," she said finally, her voice steady despite the nervous flutter in her chest.

Brad's eyes widened. "Really?"

She nodded, reaching across the table to take his hand. "I love you, Brad. And if this is what you need, then we'll figure it out. I want to take care of you, especially now. You've been so strong for me and for this baby... it's my turn to be strong for you."

Relief washed over Brad's face, and he squeezed her hand tightly. "Thank you," he said, his voice thick with emotion.

The first time they tried, it was undeniably awkward. Brad lay back on their bed, his swollen belly arching high between them, making him feel both self-conscious and exposed. Meredith, kneeling beside him, fumbled with the strap on in her hands, her cheeks pink with nerves.

"This is... different," she muttered, glancing at him.

Brad chuckled softly, though his own face was flushed. "Yeah. Just... take it slow, okay? Just do what l'd do. You've seen me do it enough."

Meredith nodded, her hands trembling slightly as she adjusted herself. "If anything feels off, just tell me."

Brad smiled at her concern. "I will, baby. Now get over here, please."

As they stumbled through those first tentative moments, Meredith's attention kept drifting to his belly. It was so big now, firm and taut, a constant reminder of the life they had created together.

She found herself running her hands over it, tracing the stretched skin with reverence.

"You really love my belly, don't you?" Brad teased, his voice light but tinged with affection.

Meredith grinned, her nervousness fading. "I do. I can't help it, it's amazing. You look so good like this."

As they continued, Brad guided her, offering gentle suggestions and encouraging words. But it didn't take long for Meredith to find her own rhythm. She slipped into the role naturally, surprising herself with how much she enjoyed taking control.

Her hands were firm but tender as she moved, her focus entirely on Brad. She watched him intently, noting every hitch of his breath, every shiver of pleasure that rippled through him. His body, so swollen and soft, was unlike anything she'd ever experienced before, and it stirred something possessive deep within her.

"You're so perfect," she murmured, leaning down to kiss the curve of his belly, still pumping her hips.

Brad's laugh was breathless, interrupted with a moan. "I don't know about that."

"I do," Meredith said as firmly as she could.

"You're carrying our baby, Brad. You're incredible."

Her words seemed to ignite something in him, and he let out a soft, contented moan as she continued. The strap on they were using cums, which Meredith was particularly nervous about.

She tried to surprise him with the function when Brad seemed like he was close himself, and when she released, Brad's reaction was immediate.

"Oh," he gasped, his body arching slightly, his hands frantically reaching up to grab her. "That... that's..."

"Good?" Meredith asked, a playful smile on her lips.

"Really good," Brad admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I need more, Meredith. Fill me up, please."

Encouraged by his response, Meredith did it again. And again. She became almost mesmerized by the way his body responded, by the moans and gasps he couldn't suppress. He looked like a swollen, pathetic mess. Meredith felt awful thinking such a thing, but she liked it. It made her want to fuck him more.

After several rounds, Brad lay back, utterly spent.

His chest rose and fell heavily, and he struggled to find a comfortable position with his belly pressing against his lungs. Meredith's hands moved aimlessly over his belly, rubbing it in slow, soothing circles.

"That was... a lot," Brad murmured, his eyes half-closed.

"You okay?" Meredith asked, her voice soft.

"Yeah," he said with a tired smile. "I think we're done, though. I didn't know you had that in you. You kind of fuck like you hate me."

He shifted slightly, trying to sit up, but Meredith's hand pressed gently against his shoulder, stopping him. He immediately stopped and was unable to protest even jokingly.

"Wait," she said, her tone almost shy. "Can we... keep going?" She tapped her fingers across his belly.

Brad blinked at her, surprised. "You want to keep going?"

Meredith's cheeks flushed, but her eyes were steady. "I do. I don't know what's come over me, but... seeing you like this, feeling so close to you— it's intoxicating."

Brad stared at her for a moment, his exhaustion warring with the deep affection and desire he felt for her. Finally, he nodded, his body sinking back into the mattress.

"Okay," he said softly. "Do whatever you want. Maybe start slow, I'm feeling pretty beat up down there."

Meredith's face lit up, and she leaned down to kiss him deeply. As she moved back into position, her hands roamed over his belly with newfound confidence, her touch both tender and possessive. She started going with her tongue, but what she didn't like about it was not being able to see her man. She couldn't see anything above his huge belly, which towered above her head and her line of sight. It was a sight to behold, one that made her herself very wet.

Brad closed his eyes, surrendering himself completely to her. Despite his fatigue, he felt a warmth spread through him—a mix of love, desire, and the unshakable certainty that, no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.

Meredith had always been the more passive partner, content to let Brad take the lead in their relationship. But ever since they had started exploring this new kind of intimacy, something inside her had shifted. She couldn't quite explain it, but she felt an intense need to be close to Brad, to claim him in ways she never had before.

It was surprising how naturally the dominant role came to her. Brad, for his part, seemed amused by the change, though he never protested.

"You're really enjoying this, huh?" he teased one evening as she pulled him close, her hands roaming over his body, drifting to his sensitive nipples, yet to produce milk.

Meredith grinned, unrepentant. "Can you blame me? Look at you."

Brad chuckled, shaking his head. "I guess not."

Their moments together had become more frequent, more urgent. Meredith was insatiable, and while Brad was often left breathless and sore, he couldn't deny how much he loved seeing her this way. It was odd, yes, unexpected, but he appreciated the shift. He appreciated the cum.

The aches started subtly, a dull pressure in his lower back that Brad attributed to the strain of carrying his massive belly. It wasn't unusual for him to feel sore these days; every movement seemed to take twice the effort it used to. And he was pretty sure he was overdue at this point.

But over the next day or two, the discomfort became harder to ignore. It came in waves, sharp and sudden, leaving him breathless.

"You okay?" Meredith asked one morning, noticing him wince as he shifted on the couch.

"Yeah, just sore," Brad replied, brushing it off.

"Probably from... you know," he said, pointing timidly at Meredith.

Meredith smirked, though her eyes softened with concern. "We can take it easy if you need to, baby."

Brad shook his head. "I'm fine. It's nothing. I'm sure."

And so, they continued as usual, with Brad ignoring the growing tension in his abdomen and back. He figured it was just another symptom of late pregnancy, nothing to worry about. In the back of his head, he wondered, but he also knew that sex would speed up labor anyways, so he kept it to himself.

That evening, as Brad was on his hands and knees in bed, belly brushing against the comforter, with Meredith grabbing his hips and thrusting in and out of him, Brad felt a sudden, sharp pain that made him gasp. Before he could even process it, a rush of warmth blasted from between his legs, soaking the sheets beneath him, and Meredith's thigh. The fluid slapped against Brad's pussy and ass as Meredith continued ruthlessly pumping into him, assuming he had squirted.

When Brad breathlessly and pathetically yelled to stop, Meredith froze, her eyes wide. "Oh my god, Brad. Was that—?"

Brad pathetically got out, "I think my water just broke, babe. Oh my god."

Panic flickered across Meredith's face, as she quickly pushed it herself out of Brad, who moaned loudly. "Okay. Okay, we need to get you to the hospital."

She tried to help him sit up, but Brad doubled over with another contraction, this one much stronger than before. He put his hand up to her as if telling her to wait and give him a second.

"Oh, God," he groaned, gripping her hand tightly.

"This is happening fast."

Meredith directed him to stay where he was so she could check what progress he was making.

She walked to the other side of the bed, and told him to lift his butt a little so she could see better.

When she glanced down, her face pale. "Brad, I don't think we're going to make it to the hospital."

"What?" he gasped.

She hesitated, then swallowed hard. "I think I can see hair."

Brad's eyes widened, his heart pounding. "What? What are you saying? You can see the head already?"

"I'm saying we might have to do this here," Meredith said, her voice trembling but steady.

She reached for her phone. "I'll call 911, but I don't think we have time to get anywhere. Stay there, Brad, and stay on your hands and knees. Gravity will help."

Another contraction hit, and Brad cried out, gripping the sheets as his body bore down instinctively. Meredith rubbed his lower back, her voice firm. "I'm here, Brad. We're going to do this together. You've got this."

As another contraction wracked his body, Brad let out a shaky breath, bracing himself for what was to come. He knew the baby was close, so close, and there was no turning back now. Milk began dripping slowly from his chest onto the bed. It was so surreal. From the QB of the college football team, to being on all fours like a breeding stock, milk dripping onto the bed, with a baby wedged in his pelvis. And somehow, it felt right. He felt free.

The contractions came faster now, leaving Brad barely any time to catch his breath. Each one felt like a wave, starting deep in his core and radiating outward, forcing his body to bear down. His voice, raw from moaning and crying out, filled the small bedroom. Meredith was at his side, her hands steady and soothing as she rubbed slow circles over his hips and lower back. "You're doing so good, Brad," she murmured, her lips brushing his temple. "You're beautiful, and I'm so proud of you.""

Brad groaned, gripping her hand as another contraction stole his breath. "It hurts, Meredith. I don't, oh God, I don't know if I can do this."

"Yes, you can," she said firmly, cupping his face to make him look at her. "You've carried our baby for nine months. You're so strong, and you've got this. Just breathe with me, okay?"

She inhaled deeply, exaggerating the rhythm so Brad could follow. He tried to mimic her, his breaths shaky but growing steadier with her guidance.

Meredith leaned back to check his progress, her touch confident despite her inexperience. "You're so close, Brad," she said, her voice warm and encouraging. "The baby's almost here. You're stretching so well. You're such a good boy for working so hard."

Brad blinked up at her, surprised by her tone. There was something so commanding, so undeniably masculine in the way she spoke, and it sent a shiver through him. He had always been the dominant one in their relationship, but seeing her take charge like this-seeing her so sure and steady-made his heart swell.

"I didn't expect you to be so good at this," he whispered between contractions, a faint smile tugging at his lips despite the pain.

Meredith smiled back, brushing the damp hair from his forehead. "I didn't either. But you're making it easy. You're amazing, Brad."

As another contraction hit, Brad cried out, his body arching off the bed. Meredith moved quickly, cradling his face and pressing a kiss to his lips. "That's it, baby. Let it out. You're doing so well."

Her hands moved to his belly, gently massaging the tight, round curve as he panted through the pain. She kissed his knuckles, her other hand gripping his tightly.

"I can't," Brad gasped, tears streaming down his face. "I can't get them out. Is the head out yet?"

"You can," Meredith countered, her voice strong and unwavering. "You're my strong, beautiful man, and you're going to bring our baby into the world. I'm right here with you."

Her words were like a balm, soothing him even as his body burned with effort.

"I see the head," Meredith said suddenly, her voice filled with awe. "You're doing it, Brad. Just one more push to get the head out."

Brad took a deep breath, his entire body trembling as he bore down with everything he had. The pressure was unbearable, but Meredith's voice anchored him.

"That's it! You're so close, love. Keep going!"

With one final, agonizing push, Brad felt the release, a slight pop of fluid, some jerking around, and then a sharp cry filled the air.

"The head is out, Brad," she said softly, her hands steady as they cradled the baby's head. "You're doing so well. The baby's beautiful, so perfect. Just one more big push for me." She leaned in closer, using a clean cloth to gently wipe the baby's face, clearing away the fluids. As she did, a sudden, delicate cry pierced the air.

Brad's eyes widened, his chest heaving as he processed the sound. The baby, his baby, was crying. Tears welled in his eyes, blurring his vision as he gripped the bedsheets tightly. Despite the overwhelming pressure and exhaustion in his body, the tiny, urgent cry ignited something deep within him. He smiled through his tears, his heart swelling with love and determination.

"They're crying, Meredith," Brad whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "They're crying."

"That's right, Brad. They're already so strong, just like you. You're amazing. You've got this, just one more push. I'll guide the baby out, but I need you to keep going, okay?"

Brad nodded, his resolve hardening as he bore down with all his might, spurred on by Meredith's soothing words and the baby's cries. Meredith's soothing words and the baby's cries. Meredith's hands remained gentle yet firm, guiding the baby as Brad worked to bring their child fully into the world.

"You're so close, Brad. You're doing it. You're incredible, my love. Just a little more-you're almost there."

Her voice wrapped around him like a lifeline, grounding him in the moment. Brad felt a final, overwhelming surge of pressure, and with one last push, the rest of the baby's body slipped free into Meredith's waiting hands. Meredith caught the baby in her arms, her eyes wide with wonder as she looked down at the tiny, wriggling figure. "We did it," she whispered, tears streaming down her face.

Brad immediately turned around to see their baby. Meredith carefully laid the baby on Brad's chest, her hands gentle as she supported both of them. Brad let out a choked sob, his arms wrapping around their child as he pressed his cheek to the baby's damp head.

"You did it," Meredith murmured, kissing his forehead. "You're incredible, Brad. I've never been more proud of you."

Brad looked up at her, his exhaustion forgotten in the glow of her love and pride. "I couldn't have done it without you."

Meredith smiled, lying down beside him and wrapping an arm around both of them. "We're a team," she said softly, her hand resting over his on the baby's back.

They stayed like that for a while, soaking in the moment. When the knock finally came at the door, Meredith rose reluctantly, still cradling Brad's hand as long as she could.

She opened the door to the paramedics, her chest puffed with pride as she led them inside. "We have a baby," she announced, her voice filled with joy.

Brad smiled weakly from the bed, their child nestled against his chest. Despite the exhaustion, he had never felt more complete.

Their journey had been anything but traditional, but in this moment, everything was perfect.

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