Dag: sighs heavily Whyyyyy can't youuu just trust mee with the decor? It'ssss for ourr own gooooood.
I trust you. I want your head in it, not in the kitchen.
rolls eyes dramatically Oh, so now you're worried about my safety? I've survived in this city without your constant interference, and I'll continue to do so.
I stare at him, my hand wrapped around my belly I'm not worried about you, yourself. But there's something that concerns me.
leans in, smirking Oh, do tell. What's got you all worked up now? Is it another one of your many insecurities? Or maybe you're just jealous of my superior taste?
I swallow hard, my hand moving to my still flat stomach as I sit on the edge of the couch We had an argument years ago... And I took a pregnancy test. It was positive.
eyes widen in shock, leans back Are... are you serious? You actually went through with it? After all this time...?
Yes. After years of trying, yes.
pauses, a mix of emotions crossing his face - surprise, guilt, and uncertainty How long have you known?
Just today. I hand him the pregnancy test, my hands shaking
takes the test from MountainEcho's trembling hand and examines it closely, his mind racing Damn it... I didn't think... pauses, takes a deep breath
I should have told you sooner, but we were fighting...
interrupts, his voice softer and more sincere No, MountainEcho. This isn't about blame. It's about us. About our future together.
So how are we going to do this? I know I haven't exactly been the most stable person in the world, let alone the best partner.
takes MountainEcho's hands in his, his touch gentle and reassuring MountainEcho, we've been through a lot, haven't we? We've had our ups and downs, but we've always found a way back to each other.
We sure have. And I want to keep finding our way back to each other. I don't want to lose you.
MountainEcho and Dag decide to seek therapy together to work through their issues and strengthen their relationship
I smile softly We can find a therapist together, Dag. It'll be good for us.
smiles back, squeezing MountainEcho's hands gently Yes, let's do it. We need someone who can guide us through this, help us navigate the complexities of our relationship.
I nod, looking down at my stomach And... Our little one. We'll need someone to help us plan for that too.
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination You're right, MountainEcho. We need to be prepared for this new chapter in our lives.
I reach out, taking his hand in mine We'll make a great family. I already love this baby so much.
smiles warmly, intertwining his fingers with MountainEcho's I know we'll be a great family, MountainEcho. We've got this all under control.
I stand, my hand resting on my stomach, the pregnancy test still sitting on the coffee table Come on, let's start looking for a therapist.
stands up, wrapping an arm around MountainEcho's shoulders Let's get started right away. I'll call a few contacts and see if they can fit us in.
Thank you, Dag. I appreciate it.
pulls out his phone and starts making calls, his voice filled with determination Don't worry, MountainEcho. We'll find the best therapist for us.
I watch him with a soft smile
continues making phone calls, speaking in a determined tone Alright, let's see if Dr. Johnson has any availability. Good morning, Dr. Johnson.
I set my hand to rest on his arm, offering support
nods appreciatively, speaking into the phone Yes, Dr. Johnson, we're looking for someone who can help us navigate the challenges of our relationship and prepare for the arrival of our baby.
I lean into him I love you.
smiles and kisses MountainEcho's forehead I love you too, MountainEcho. And I'm going to do everything I can to make sure we both thrive during this journey.
continues making phone calls, his voice becoming slightly frustrated Okay, let's try Dr. Thompson next. dials a new number Hello, Dr.
I wait patiently beside him, leaning into him
speaks into the phone, his voice firm Dr. Thompson, I'd like to schedule an appointment for my wife and me.
After calling several therapists, Dag and MountainEcho finally find one who has availability and schedule an appointment.
I stand beside him, holding onto his arm Thank you for not giving up.
smiles gratefully at MountainEcho, his eyes filled with determination Of course, MountainEcho. I won't give up on anything I care about, especially our future together.
gently squeezes MountainEcho's hand We're in this together, MountainEcho. Every step of the way. And I'm going to fight for us, for our love, and for our family.