She didn’t speak, simply handed him the test. Brian’s blue eyes, usually so analytical and calm, widened. In an instant, his researcher’s skepticism dissolved, replaced by a wave of pure joy as he swept her into a fierce embrace.

“I can’t believe it,” he whispered into her hair. “Is this real?”

“We won’t know for certain until the doctor’s appointment,” Melissa laughed, her voice buoyant, “but I’m sure.”

That night, they celebrated. Melissa toasted with sparkling apple juice while Brian raised a glass of expensive wine. Baby product catalogs were already fanned across the dining table, their glossy pages filled with a future that suddenly felt tangible.