Amelia: fiddling with her coffee cup So, I've got some big news. I'm... um, pregnant.
you are kidding right? how did this happen not saying you got knocked up by a animal or anything
laughs softly No, it's not like that. I met someone, we connected, and things happened. But I'm excited. This is going to be a new chapter in my life.
oh my god laughs I am so freaking happy for you
grinning Thanks, Strike. It means a lot to hear you say that. I was kind of nervous about how you would react, but your acceptance makes everything easier.
mhm, I am sorry for being a little stiff about it
waves hand dismissively Oh, come on, Strike. I understand. It's a lot to take in, especially since we've been friends for so long.
returns the hug, tears welling up in her eyes Thank you, Strike. You mean the world to me. I couldn't have asked for a better friend.
aww don’t cry, damn I suck at this stuff
sniffs, wipes away tears Nah, you don't suck at this stuff. It's just... it's a lot for both of us.
takes a deep breath Look, I know this is a big change for us both.
reaches across the table and holds Strike's hand But we're in this together, okay? We'll figure it out.
leans in closer, voice filled with warmth Strike, I promise you, I won't let this change our friendship. We'll still be the same people we've always been.
well that is good to hear
squeezes Strike's hand reassuringly And trust me, I will always be here for you, no matter what. We're family now, Strike. We've got each other's backs.
As time goes on, Strike and Amelia grow closer, their bond deepening as they navigate the challenges of impending parenthood together.
alright, enough about me. how is the baby doing
excitedly Oh, the baby is doing great! I've been having a lot of check-ups and visiting my midwife regularly.
takes out an ultrasound picture Here, look. This is the little one. points to the image That tiny little speck is our future Strike Jr.!
wow, your pregnant for how long
smiles It's only been about four weeks. We've got a long way to go, but I couldn't be happier to embark on this journey with you by my side.
takes a sip of her coffee, thoughtful You know, Strike, becoming a parent is a huge responsibility.
it is, I can’t wait for you to be a mom though.
laughs Well, I can guarantee you that motherhood is not going to be my forte. But hey, at least I'll have you there to help me out, right?
grins mischievously Hey, Strike, you know what we need to do? We should start making a list of all the crazy baby names we can think of!