“This first appointment is straightforward. I’m going to run down everything you need to know. I like to ensure that all my first time moms understand the process. Feel free to ask me any questions. At the end, we’ll check on what that little one is doing. Sound good?”

“Uh huh.” I exhaled a deep breath as Dr. Maxwell sat on a rolling stool.

“It looks like you are about three months pregnant. Last period was December fifteenth. Is that correct?” She flipped open her chart.

“Yes. That is correct.”

“Great.” Dr. Maxell talked, but I couldn’t focus. All I could think about was how my life was about to change in so many ways. I was going to have to tell my parents and face their disappointment soon.

“Phileigh?” Lolo nudged me. “Are you listening?”

“Yes, of course.” I focused my attention back on Dr. Maxwell.

“Your body is going to go through many changes during this process. It’s beautiful, but there is a lot of risks. So, it’s important to take good care of yourself and relax as much as possible. Have you been experiencing any nausea, pain, or cravings?”

“A little nausea,” I admitted. “But no cravings or anything like that. I go to the bathroom a lot, but that’s normal, right?”

“Frequent urination is perfectly normal. It should die down a little once you’re out of the first trimester. Do you have any more questions?”

I shook my head. I couldn’t think of anything at the moment. I just wanted to see my baby.

“Okay. If you think of anything, don’t hesitate to call me.”

“Okay.”

“Great. Let’s get started with this ultrasound, shall we? I’m sure you are dying to see your baby.”

She motioned for me to lay back as she prepared the machine. I could barely contain my nerves. This was really happening. I looked over at Lolo, who shared the same nervous expression on her face as I did.

“This is going to feel cold.” Dr. Maxwell applied a cool gel to my belly, and I jumped slightly as she began rolling the ultrasound wand over my stomach. “Now, let’s see what we can find in here. Two babies maybe?”

“God, I hope not.” I watched nervously. Raising one baby alone was more than enough.

The screen flickered to life as Dr. Maxwell glided the doppler across my belly. My heart was racing as I watched the little life I was growing come to life on screen like a little beacon of hope in the darkness. It was followed by a little heartbeat thumping loud and strong.

“There it is. One baby,” Dr. Maxwell announced.

Tears welled in my eyes as I stared at the screen.

“Oh my God…” I exhaled the breath I didn’t know I was holding. I was overwhelmed by emotion as the tiny baby squirmed around my belly.