章節 35: Chapter 35: The Birth Plan
As Alice's due date drew closer, the couple found themselves enveloped in a whirlwind of preparations, excitement, and lingering nerves. The nursery was complete, painted in soft pastel colors and filled with plush toys and adorable outfits waiting to be worn. Still, the most pressing task ahead was developing their birth plan.
One evening, after dinner, Elliot and Alice settled into the living room, surrounded by pamphlets and notes from their recent birthing classes. Elliot could see a mix of eagerness and apprehension in Alice's eyes.
"Are you ready to tackle this?" he asked, sliding a notepad toward her.
She nodded, taking a deep breath. "I think so. I've been thinking about how I want things to go, but I want to make sure you're on board with everything too."
"Absolutely," he replied, leaning in closer. "Let's go through it together."
As Alice began to outline her thoughts, Elliot listened attentively, jotting down key points.
"I want to try for a natural birth if possible," she began, her voice steady. "But I also want to keep the option for pain relief open. I don't want to be in agony if it gets too intense."
"Good idea. We can talk to the doctor about what options are available," Elliot said, noting her preference.
Alice continued, "And I want you to be with me the whole time. I can't imagine going through this without you there."
"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else," he assured her, his heart swelling with pride. "You're going to be amazing."
She smiled at him, feeling reassured. "And I want skin-to-skin contact right after birth, if possible. I want to bond with our baby immediately."
"Of course! I love that idea," he replied enthusiastically. "And maybe we can have a photographer there to capture those first moments?"
"I'd like that," she agreed, her eyes lighting up at the thought.
As they discussed the finer details, Alice paused, her brow furrowing slightly. "What about the possibility of a C-section? What do you think?"
Elliot took a moment to consider. "If it's necessary for you or the baby's health, I trust the doctors. But I know how much you want a natural birth. Let's just keep that as a last resort."
"Exactly," Alice said, feeling a surge of relief. "I just want to make sure we're prepared for anything."
They continued to build their plan, sharing their thoughts and feelings openly, feeling more united with each discussion. As they wrapped up, Alice glanced at the clock, realizing how late it had gotten.
"Wow, time flies when we're planning a birth!" she chuckled, stretching her arms overhead.
"I guess we've officially entered the parenting zone," Elliot said, grinning at her. "And you're doing an incredible job already."
Alice smiled, leaning against him. "Thanks for being so supportive. I feel so much better having this plan in place."
"Anytime. I'm just as excited as you are," Elliot replied, wrapping his arm around her shoulders.
The following days were filled with appointments, classes, and discussions about the baby. With every passing moment, Elliot felt more at ease with the idea of becoming a father. He was determined to be present for every milestone and to create a nurturing environment for their family.
One afternoon, while Alice was at a prenatal check-up, Elliot took a moment to sit in the nursery, gazing around at the tiny clothes and toys. It was surreal to think that soon, they would have a baby to fill this space. He couldn't help but imagine the laughter and chaos that would soon fill their home.
Suddenly, his phone buzzed with a message from Alice: "The doctor says everything is looking great! The baby is healthy and strong."
Elliot felt a rush of happiness as he read the message. "That's amazing! Can't wait to see you! Let's celebrate tonight."
"How about dinner at that new Italian place?" she suggested.
"Perfect! I'll make a reservation," he replied, a smile spreading across his face.
That evening, they arrived at the restaurant, the ambiance warm and inviting. As they settled into a cozy booth, Elliot couldn't shake the sense of anticipation swirling inside him.
"Here's to a healthy baby and an even healthier mama," he toasted, raising his glass of sparkling water.
Alice laughed, clinking her glass against his. "Cheers to us!"
As they enjoyed their meal, their conversation flowed effortlessly. They talked about everything—plans for the nursery, potential baby names, and even shared funny stories from their childhoods.
"You know, I was terrified of the dark as a kid," Alice admitted, laughing. "I would sleep with a nightlight until I was ten!"
Elliot chuckled, picturing her as a little girl. "I had a stuffed bear that I took everywhere. I was so attached to it that I refused to let it go even when it was falling apart."
"I can imagine you carrying that bear around," Alice teased, nudging him playfully.
"I had to, or else I'd be lost without it!" he replied, enjoying the easy banter between them.
As the evening wore on, Elliot felt a warmth settle over him. Moments like this reminded him of how far they'd come—how much they'd grown together. With Alice, he felt complete.
When they returned home, Elliot couldn't shake the feeling of excitement. He knew that soon, they would step into the next chapter of their lives, and he felt ready.
A few days later, they went for another check-up at the doctor's office. As Alice lay on the examination table, Elliot held her hand tightly, watching the monitor as the doctor performed the ultrasound.
"There's your baby!" the doctor said with a smile, pointing at the screen. "Everything looks great, and you're just about ready for the big day."
Elliot's heart soared as he saw the tiny figure moving on the screen, feeling the rush of love wash over him. This was real—this was their child.
After the appointment, as they walked to their car, Alice turned to him, a serious look on her face. "Elliot, can we talk about something?"
"Of course. What's on your mind?" he asked, sensing the change in her tone.
"I've been thinking about the birth, and I want to make sure we're fully prepared emotionally, not just physically. I want to be honest with you about my fears."
Elliot nodded, encouraging her to share. "I'm here for you, Alice. Always."
"I'm scared of how I'll handle the pain and the unpredictability of labor," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "What if I can't do it? What if something goes wrong?"
Elliot squeezed her hand, drawing her close. "You're going to be amazing, Alice. Just like you've been throughout this entire journey. We'll face it together. I believe in you."
"I know I need to be strong, but sometimes I just feel overwhelmed," she confessed, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.
"Hey," he said gently, tilting her chin up to meet his gaze. "You don't have to carry this alone. It's okay to feel scared. We can talk about it whenever you need."
Alice took a deep breath, grateful for his support. "Thank you, Elliot. I just want to be a good mother."
"You will be," he reassured her. "Just remember, we're a team."
As they drove home, Elliot reflected on how these moments brought them closer. They were navigating the unknown together, preparing for the beautiful chaos that was about to unfold. And no matter what challenges lay ahead, he knew they would face them as partners—stronger together, united by love.
每周推薦票狀態
-- 推薦票
榜單 
-- 推薦票