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The Crib in the Attic

Lydia sat on the couch, her chin resting on her hands, staring at the pregnancy test she'd set on the table. She hadn't dared to look at it yet. If her mom were here, she'd have taken a peek long ago, but without her Lydia felt vulnerable. The idea of single line scared her more than the double. Ever since the first could it be? had wormed its way into her heart, been clinging to this moment.

The creak of the door distracted her. Their cat usually preferred to roam outside, chasing horses or harassing sheep. But today, she hopped onto Lydia's lap and pressed her paws against Lydia's belly, meowing softly. "You want to know too, huh?" Lydia murmured. Something about that gave her enough courage. With shaky hands, she grabbed the test, inhaled a deep, flipped it over.

Two lines.

Her heart exploded in her chest, overflowing. It was unlike anything she'd ever felt before. She scooped the cat into her arms, squeezing her. The cat purred smugly, like she'd known all along.

Lydia couldn't sit still. Her mind already filling with images of tiny hands grasping hers, baby babbles, and wobbly toddler steps. She ran a hand over her belly, imagining what was to come.

The clock caught her eye. Archie would be home any minute. Needing something to do, she bolted up and headed for the attic, dragging down the old crib.

It had been the boys' crib first, then Cali's. Running her fingers over the worn wood, noticed the tiny teeth marks, faint scratches, and faded paint, evidence of tiny lives lived. It was worn, sure, but Lydia smiled, knowing Archie would make it better than new.

The front door creaked open. She turned, and for the first time in weeks, a wide smile spread across her face. "Just on time, love." welcomed him.

"The crib needs some repairs." added lightly, handing him the beer and holding out the pregnancy test. She knew her man, she knew he'd need a drink.