Mark's voice, an embodiment of his cheerful mood, painted a warm smile across Rena's face as he sweetly promised, “Next time you're in Duefron, I'll have a delightful surprise waiting for you."

With gratitude, Rena bid farewell and hung up the phone.

Time unfurled its wings, casting a gentle spell that nurtured Rena's burgeoning belly.

Three months sped by, leaving in their wake a swelling baby bump.

Curiosity and excitement led Rena and Vera to a mother-and-baby store, their hearts fluttering as they perused the adorable array of baby clothes. Amidst their selections, Vera's voice Lowered as she shared a longing from her heart.

“Rena, I've yearned for another child with Roscoe for years. We tried our best, but the stars didn't align. How have you managed to welcome so many children with Waylen?"

Vera's contemplation took a playful turn, her curiosity alighting on the possible culprit.

"Is it because he adamantly refuses the use of condoms?"

Rena's laughter was a soothing melody in response.

Pausing to reflect, her voice carried a gentle certainty.

“Our growing family is a deliberate choice."

Vera's eyes shimmered with a wistful envy.

It was a sentiment she expressed through baby clothes. She bought two pink garments nestled among Rena‘s choices. Her unspoken hope whispered of future motherhood.

With a knowing smile, Rena playfully warned, “Children demand your time and energy, my dear. Parenthood isn't a path of leisure."

Vera's longing gaze painted a portrait of her dreams, revealing a woman yearning for a future where the pitter-patter of tiny feet graced her life.

As they immersed themselves in conversation, neither Rena nor Vera sensed the silent presence of Aline, her gaze fixated upon them through the glass, her thoughts shrouded in contemplation.

Aline looked thinner than before.

She watched Rena's gentle form with a mixture of envy and longing.

Rena's gentle demeanor juxtaposed with her blossoming belly tugged at Aline's emotions, her thoughts mired in silent contemplation.

Observing Rena from a distance, she surmised that Rena lived a happy life.

The world knew Waylen as a stoic figure, immersed in the art of business and stoically devoted to his wife.

Aline, too, recognized his unwavering Love.