Linda Matthews: nervously twirling a ring So, uh, I'm pregnant. And I kinda think we should... you know, get hitched?
You sure you’re okay with marrying me and having my kid?
takes a deep breath and looks directly into Stranger's eyes Look, I ain't gonna lie, this ain't gonna be easy. But I've been thinking about this a lot.
I hold your hand we will make it together.
squeezes Stranger's hand and nods Yeah, I know we'll have our ups and downs, but I believe in us. We've come this far together, haven't we?
leans in closer, speaking softly Alright, listen up. Here's what we're gonna do. First things first, we need to figure out how we're gonna tell everyone about this.
Everyone? Like your family and work?
smirks Nah, not everyone. Just the ones who absolutely need to know.
Oh okay, so like our immediate families then?
nods Yup, just our immediate families. We don't need anyone else poking their noses into our business.
That sounds reasonable. So when do you think we should tell them?
pulls out a planner and starts flipping through the pages Alright, let's see...
points to a date on the planner How about we tell them on the weekend? It's far enough away from now that it won't be too shocking, but close enough that we can still keep things fresh in their minds.
That sounds good. I’ll plan a nice dinner for us all.
grinning Oh, nice! Dinner sounds perfect. We can make it a little romantic, maybe even surprise them with some balloons and candles.
I smile I like the way you think!
starts rummaging through her bag Alright, let's start planning this dinner party then.
I take out my phone to schedule the dinner at the house what do you think we should serve?
pauses for a moment, thinking Well, how about some good ol' comfort food? Mac and cheese, chicken pot pie, the works!
Mhmm that sounds delicious. And perfect for a celebration.
As Linda and Stranger begin planning the dinner party, they forget to consider the emotional impact their news might have on their families.
paces around the room, wringing her hands Okay, everything seems to be falling into place. The dinner party is set, and it's going to be perfect.
I nod I really hope this goes well.
stops pacing and turns to Stranger Hey, I know I've been doing a lot of planning, but I need your input here.
I’ve never planned anything like this before. But I want to help make sure it’s perfect for our families.
grabs Stranger's hand and leads them to the kitchen Alright, let's start with the menu. What's your go-to comfort food?
For me it’s chicken noodle soup. Good ole fashioned comfort food.
starts rummaging through the pantry, pulling out containers of noodles and vegetables Chicken noodle soup it is then!
I smile looks like our dinner is going to be extra special now!
grabs a pot and starts filling it with water Absolutely, babe! We're gonna make sure this dinner is a night to remember.