PREGNANT AFTER ONE NIGHT STAND

“Anya really needs to be displayed in a museum, Nao.”

Naomi nodded enthusiastically, quickly devouring the fruit pudding that accompanied us. “If I knew, I wouldn’t have bothered coming here,” Naomi said with her mouth still half full.

“To think that a super romantic proposal ended up like this. Is he clueless or what?”

I pouted. As usual, Dona always caught us being affectionate. I thought there wouldn’t be many people inside the building, but turns out… ugh… so embarrassing. I mean, yes, I knew Cedric wanted to propose to me, trying to be all romantic, but it failed. I could clearly see it. What I didn’t prepare for was that Cedric’s proposal would be witnessed by our closest friends and even his parents, Krystal, and oh, Anna was there too. It seems like she can now blend in with my two best friends. Even though I still see a hint of awkwardness on her face. Maybe she’s not used to our way of communication. Yeah, right. Dona, the reincarnation of the God Bar-Bar, while Naomi is her loyal follower. Or is it the other way around? Whatever.

So, when we entered the room, everyone stared at us with teasing grins. I felt like changing my face or wearing a permanent mask. All I could do was hide behind Cedric’s back, which felt wider than usual. Or was it just me now realizing it?

“Welcome to the Blaxton’s family, Anya,” Krystal half-squealed since no one said anything after we entered. Then she pulled me gently and gave me a tight hug. Then came her mother. Enough already. I just resigned myself to it. Anyway, it seemed like they understood that the proposal that came out of Cedric’s lips earlier got an extraordinary YES from me.

Yes, indeed! They all saw how our lips parted from each other. They even reminded us to get rid of Dona when we’re alone. She might catch us in even more compromising situations.

In front of both of his parents, Cedric placed a beautiful ring on my finger. He said, “My wife soon to be.”

I smiled gently at his words. It won’t be long before my status changes. I just hope there won’t be any significant obstacles to our marriage.

“Look, Anya’s starting to show signs of madness. Smiling to herself.”

I felt like sewing Dona’s lips together. Wouldn’t that be a good idea? Maybe it would make her uncomfortable enough to stop teasing me, right?

“We got assigned tasks from Mrs. Krystal. You were right, she’s a total perfectionist. I mean, it’s a well-known fact, but since I’ve never worked directly with her, it feels strange to deal with all the specific details she wants.” Naomi reached for more pudding. “I’m hungry, by the way, and this… is delicious,” she added.

I just shook my head.Nôvel(D)rama.Org's content.

“You’re amazing for balancing her,” Dona said.

“At first, I was shocked too. I mean, I used to complain a lot. But because I needed the job, I tried really hard to adapt,” Naomi added.

They laughed. “Just accept it, Anya. We’re fully committed to helping you,” Naomi said.

This seemed highly suspicious. I just heard them complaining, and now they’re all united. It can’t be that easy, right? Although I’m sure both Dona and Naomi aren’t calculating anything when it comes to me. Even before I could voice my doubts, Naomi interrupted, “Don’t argue. Pregnant women shouldn’t have many worries. Your concept is simple, right? You’ll see.”

Krystal, Dona, and Naomi. I can’t just trust them like that! I’m sure they’re hiding something. I’ve learned from experience! This time, I won’t let my guard down.

“I don’t trust your mouths anymore,” I said sternly.

Naomi smirked. “Let it be. As long as I’m happy getting involved in the fuss.”

“Anya practically asked to be displayed in a museum, right? I said that from the beginning. No one believed me. But when she gets a diamond ring, she keeps quiet,” Dona said teasingly.

I flicked Dona without hesitation.

“OUCH, ANYA!!!”

“You really have a big mouth!” I scolded her. It’s because Cedric’s family is here. How could she talk like that? I’m not materialistic, okay? Even if he gives me a ring like this, it won’t instantly captivate my heart, even if it shines dazzlingly.

“What Dona meant is… we warned Cedric that you don’t like these kinds of things. We’ve been friends for a long time, and I know you well. But Cedric didn’t believe us. He said he wanted it to be special. And that’s how it ended up like this,” Naomi explained.

“Besides, Anya, what’s wrong with being romantic on specific occasions? It’s not a big deal. This is an engagement, after all. I’m amazed by his mind. Where is it rolling to, really? But you, Anya, your mind is so clever,” Dona said.

I let out a soft sigh. “So, it’s only on certain occasions, like anniversaries or birthdays? Other than that?”

Both Dona and Naomi exchanged glances, then looked at me with confusion. “This is different, Anya. This is an engagement.”

“Let me explain it simply to you both. Pay attention.” I sipped on the orange juice served as per my order. I just realized that Cedric rented this restaurant specifically for the moment of his proposal to me. The place was specially decorated and had only three main tables.

One table was where I sat with my two strange friends. In the right corner, the table was filled with Cedric’s immediate family, and the other one, I wasn’t sure who they were, but I assumed they were Cedric’s relatives. He hadn’t explained the details to me yet.

It’s a bit sad to be in a moment like this all alone. Carrying my body without any family ties. I meant, no parents. But I don’t really care. Maybe it’s because of the pain and the fact that I’m so used to not having them in my significant moments, so I’m not too sad. If I could ask for something, I’d only want Granny Sumi to be here. There’s no close family member from either my father’s or mother’s side. I was always mocked by others since I was a child. It was only Granny Sumi who protected me, my shield with her wrinkled hands. Ah… I miss her so much.

“Anya.”

I was startled by Dona’s call. She was looking at me suspiciously. “Are you okay?”

“No. I… I remember Granny Sumi.”

Without needing any command, Naomi embraced me while Dona, who was sitting across from me, stood up and approached to hug me.

“We’re here for you. Don’t feel alone,” Naomi said.

She’s right. Naomi is right. This time, I won’t be alone. I have them both, Cedric, and also Baby. Oh, not to forget, now I have a brother I never expected before. My boss. And Anna too. It seems that kid can be my friend.

“For me, romance doesn’t necessarily have to involve getting proposed to on one knee, bringing flowers, and all that stuff. Oh… you both know what I mean.” I released each of their hugs. “When Cedric took my hand, placed the ring in front of his parents, and I saw their happy expressions, that was romantic for me. Nothing surpasses the romance of their blessings and acceptance of me, Dona, Naomi. Seriously.”

I should be the one teary-eyed or crying. But it’s Dona who suddenly hugged me again, while sobbing. “You…”

“If Cedric tries anything, he’ll have to deal with us, Dona,” Naomi said.

The playful guy released his hug for a moment, then nodded in agreement with Naomi’s words. “I’ll chop him into pieces! Just watch!”

I laughed. “Then I won’t be able to cross my legs again!”

There’s nothing more delightful and joyous than this evening. Even without a formal proposal or a marriage proposal, I’ll still be Cedric’s wife. Not out of arrogance or being overly confident. It’s just that Cedric really can’t stay away from me. The evidence is him coming closer to me right now.

But wait… don’t tell me Cedric is going to sing! He brought his guitar!

Oh no!!!

Then all the main lights were deliberately turned off, leaving only dim lighting! Oh no!!!

“I didn’t really want to show off my skills. The future wife said she’s afraid of falling more in love with me.”

Cheers and applause accompanied Cedric, who was getting closer to me. I sneered but my smile wouldn’t fade. Just when Cedric was in front of me, Naomi and Dona had returned to their seats, and their gazes were solely focused on me.

This is seriously… I can’t move at all. Even if I try to divert my attention, Cedric is so clear. It’s like his handsomeness is multiplied several times! As the guitar strings were plucked, I just knew I couldn’t help but be impressed.

When your legs don’t work like they used to before

And I can’t sweep you off of your feet

Will your mouth still remember the taste of my love

Will your eyes still smile from your cheeks

And darling I will be loving you ’til we’re 70

And baby my heart could still fall as hard at 23

And I’m thinking ’bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways

Maybe just the touch of a hand

Oh me I fall in love with you every single day

And I just wanna tell you I am

Cedric’s silliness, he winked at me. Can you believe it?!

This time, I agree. I hope Cedric won’t leave me. Whatever problems we might face in the future. We are different, not just in terms of social status. No, that can be set aside. But our principles and ideals can clearly clash. I won’t deny that there might be many disagreements.

Or… let’s not leave each other. I’m extremely selfish. I need something to hold on to so my ego doesn’t get out of control. Maybe God gave Cedric to me so we could walk together and balance each other.

He put down the guitar! But the accompanying music is still playing while the wireless mic is perfectly in place. Cedric’s fingers are pointing at me. I’m so nervous!

“My life is perfect with you, Joice. By my side. Never have your own thoughts and never try to run away from me.”

I pouted. “Did I ever try to run away from you?”

His response was met with a chuckle from Cedric.

“I love you, Anya Joice.”

His voice resonated in my heart. Can I turn away and reject it again? No.

“I love you too.”