Soul Serenade

25

As the sounds of laughter and excitement filled the air at William's birthday party, Miranda found herself watching her son play with his friends, a tender smile gracing her lips.

Amidst the joyful chaos of the celebration, her thoughts kept drifting back to the news she had received the day before—the news of her pregnancy.Her heart swelled with a mixture of emotions as she imagined the new addition to their family, picturing moments of laughter and love shared between siblings. She couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and gratitude for the miracle of life growing within her, a precious gift that filled her with both joy and apprehension.

Lost in her thoughts, Miranda's gaze lingered on William, her heart overflowing with love for her son. She knew that his world was about to change in the most beautiful and profound way, as he welcomed a sibling into his life—a companion to share his adventures and dreams with, a bond that would last a lifetime. As she watched William play, Miranda felt a sense of reassurance wash over her.

Feeling Ben's presence beside her, Miranda's attention shifted from her thoughts to the warmth of his comforting presence. She turned to him, a soft smile playing on her lips as she welcomed his company.

"Hey," she greeted him

He settled down next to her. He wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close in a silent gesture of love and support.

"Hey" He kissed her cheek "That's allowed isn't it"

"Don't think anyone saw" She joked

Miranda leaned into his embrace, finding solace in the familiar comfort of his touch. She glanced at him, her eyes reflecting a mixture of emotions—joy, excitement, and a hint of apprehension. They really were building a life together. They were getting married and now they were having a baby.

William dashed over, his face lit up with excitement and joy, Miranda and Ben's attention shifted to him, their hearts swelling with pride and love.

"Hey buddy, how's it going?" Ben asked, a wide smile spreading across his face.

William beamed up at them, his eyes shining with happiness. "It's the best birthday ever" he exclaimed

Miranda's heart melted at the sight of her son's radiant smile. "I'm so glad to hear that, sweetheart," she said "We're thrilled to celebrate with you."

Ben ruffled William's hair affectionately. "You deserve all the happiness in the world, kiddo," he said, his voice overflowing with love.

With a contented sigh, William glanced around at the festivities, his eyes alight with excitement. "Thanks, Mom, thanks, Ben," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "I'm having the best time ever"

As William darted off to rejoin his friends, Miranda and Ben exchanged a knowing look, their hearts swelling with love for him.  He was going to be a great big brother.

Miranda's parents approached her and Ben with warm smiles. They joined them at the picnic table taking a seat across from them.

Miranda's mother, Elena, spoke first, her voice tinged with emotion. "It feels like this party is more than just a celebration of William's birthday," she began. "It feels like a chance for us to come together as a family and rebuild our relationship."

"And you know what, who knows what's in the future for this family" Ben smiled "I believe that whatever lies ahead, we need to face it together," Ben said, his voice steady. "And that starts with us, here and now, making amends and moving forward as a united front."

Miranda's father, whose usually stoic demeanor softened with emotion, nodded in agreement. "That is true. This is the first of many birthdays we'll share with you all. And hopefully maybe a invitation to the wedding"