Chapter 45: New Beginnings and Unexpected Encounters

On their way back from the hospital, Ethan turned to Olivia, a mischievous grin playing on his lips. "You know, we should probably stop by the mall."

Olivia raised an eyebrow, amused. "What for? You think we need something else?"

He glanced at her growing belly, his eyes softening with excitement. "Well, our baby's growing every day, and you might need some new clothes soon—something comfortable."

She couldn't help but smile. "You've already planned everything, haven't you?"

Ethan shrugged casually. "Just doing my part, Liv. Besides, I've read all the books on pregnancy I can get my hands on."

Her laugh was light and teasing as she poked his arm. "Look at you, Daddy! Are you sure this is your first child?"

He felt both proud and a little embarrassed. "Come on, Liv. I did my homework."

When they arrived at the mall, Ethan insisted on helping Olivia find comfortable maternity wear. They strolled through the aisles, with him pointing out the softest fabrics and the most practical outfits. Olivia, amused, teased him every time he shared a new fact about pregnancy, but secretly, she loved how involved and excited he was.

After a whirlwind of shopping, Ethan was carrying all the bags, his arms full of clothes, while Olivia walked beside him, looking effortlessly graceful with her sunglasses on. "You know," she mused, glancing at his loaded arms, "you're really embracing this whole 'dad-to-be' thing."

Ethan chuckled. "Someone's gotta carry the load, right?"

They stopped by a footwear shop next. "Doctor's orders," Ethan said, leading her toward the flat shoes section. "No more heels, at least for now."

Olivia frowned, pouting dramatically. "But you know how much I love my heels!"

He shook his head, crossing his arms. "Not this time, Liv. Flats. No exceptions."

She pouted even more, hoping to wear him down, but Ethan stood his ground. "Sorry, love. Not giving in."

With a resigned sigh, Olivia picked out a few stylish pairs of flats, muttering under her breath, "This baby's already changing my wardrobe."

As they headed for the mall exit, a familiar face caught Ethan's attention. A woman, smiling warmly at him, walked over. "Ethan!"

It was his Aunt Linda, a beloved figure from his childhood. Ethan's face lit up, and he rushed to give her a hug. "Aunt Linda! What a surprise!"

They exchanged a few pleasantries before Ethan pulled Olivia close to his side, his arm around her waist. "Aunt Linda, I want you to meet my wife, Olivia."

Linda's eyes sparkled with admiration as she took in Olivia's grace and beauty. "Oh, so you're the famous Olivia! I've heard so much about you, dear. And congratulations on everything you've accomplished."

Olivia smiled warmly. "Thank you, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"And," Ethan added, his voice filled with pride, "we're expecting our first child."

Linda squealed with excitement, clapping her hands together. "Oh, that's wonderful news! I'm so happy for both of you!"

She turned to Ethan, her eyes soft with emotion. "It's time you brought her home, Ethan. Pops would be thrilled to meet her—and especially his great-grandchild."

Ethan hesitated, the memories of his strained relationship with his family flashing in his mind. "I'm not sure, Aunt Linda... Martha and Jenna..."

Linda waved a dismissive hand. "Don't you worry about them. I'll take care of Martha and Jenna. You just bring Olivia and the baby home. Pops will love her."

Olivia watched Ethan's face carefully, sensing the weight of the moment. After a brief pause, he nodded. "Alright. We'll come for dinner tomorrow."

Linda beamed, hugging them both before they parted ways.

As they got back into the car, Olivia noticed Ethan's silence. The drive started, but the air felt thick with unspoken thoughts. She reached over, placing her hand on his. "Is everything alright?"

Ethan sighed, his fingers tightening around hers as he stared out the windshield. "Yeah… it's just... going home brings back a lot of memories. Things weren't easy with Martha and Jenna. But..."

He glanced at her, his eyes softening. "I guess it's time to face it. For you. And for the baby."

Olivia squeezed his hand gently. "We'll face it together."

Ethan nodded, feeling a sense of calm wash over him. With Olivia by his side, there was nothing they couldn't handle.