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A solid toilet, bolted to the ground, clean porcelain and the faint smell of bleach. These were the main features of Lucy Abernathy's morning. Hermione had gathered all of her curls into a ponytail, wincing as Lucy dry heaved, the contents of her breakfast flushed down the toilet. “Do you want water?” Hermione asked for the third time. Lucy weakly shook her head as she lifted it from the bowl. Together they sat on the floor of the small bathroom, leaning against the glass shower door. This is not the first time they had been in such a position. Lucy did not handle alcohol well, especially the blue tequila shots served up at every college gathering and Hermione experimented by mixing drinks that perhaps would land anyone else in A&E. But Hermione Wei had a resilience that confounded science. However, it was a Thursday morning and they were completely stone sober. So Lucy ‘never-drink-on-a-day-before-lectures’ Abernathy throwing up so heavily was a concern. “Water might be good. And sleep, I really want to sleep.” Lucy whispered with a weak smile. It was as if she had expelled her very soul. Hermione nodded, helping her stand up and walk the small distance out of the ensuite into the main dorm. “You know, I did say never eat late. Makes your tummy upset.” Hermione said with a teasing lilt to her voice, “You're sensitive.” “I know I'm sensitive.” Lucy grumbled, “You're not. Don't scold me when I'm ill. We'll be doing this again next week.” She pulled the covers over her head, wanting to block out the world for a bit. She had already turned in a formative for the week and had done some reading for her dissertation the night before. Lucy decided that she could afford a break, especially as it felt her stomach was going to fall out of her mouth. Hermione busied herself, refilling her water bottle and placing it on her bedside table and kissing her on the forehead before leaving for her lectures. Left to her thoughts, Lucy thought about what could have made her sick. Maybe eating a sandwich from the dining hall late was not a good idea. But it was fresh - she always went into the dining hall at five to make sure to beat the crowds at dinner time. Her last big sesh had been at the end of Lent. It was the beginning of the end - end of second term, last year before they had to write ten thousand words and Hermione coaxed her out of the library.It had been a fun night. Arthur was newly single, so needed to let loose, Hermione invented a new cocktail and Lucy had just been glad to make through pre drinks before they ventured over to a party hosted by Felicity Featherington. She had rented out one of the college banquet halls, decorated it with lights and it looked more like a members' only club in London. Lucy had retreated to the lean against the ancient oak panelled walls, holding onto her empty glass when Gregory Bridgerton approached her. She hadn't seen him in a while - he looked good, as he always did. Gregory smiled shyly at her, dimples showing. He was in a simple white shirt and dark jeans. He was saying something, and Lucy squinted, shaking her head to signal she could not hear him over the music. She gently beckoned him closer and he leaned down to speak. "Fliss always goes all out. Her last name is Featherington." Gregory said, his breath warm on her ear. Lucy swallowed, ignoring the flutters in her stomach and chuckled nervously. "Her mum always used to have the maddest Easter parties when we were little." He added. "Like Easter Egg hunts?" Lucy asked, right in his ear, "I didn't think they were a thing here!" "You've been here for three years and you are still shocked by us Brits?" "I am not always shocked. Hermione has me making tea properly now and I really love bonfire night." Lucy said, "Gotta get used to driving on the left too!" Gregory squinted "You're staying?" Lucy nodded, "I mean, yeah." Her brother's here and so is her uncle - even if he is an ass. It was family and she spent so much time away from her brother already growing up. The song ended and they had a moment of quiet. They looked at each other and giggled. "I love being able to hear my thoughts again." Gregory joked. "What are you thinking about?" Lucy asked. Biting his lip, he looked at the floor and then back at her, "You." He simply replied. His eyes were earnest, his smile all nervous and Lucy felt her cheeks warm. She brushed back some of her curls and smiled at Gregory. “Come on, dance with me.” Gregory urged, pulling her gently to the dance floor as another EDM song started up. Lucy fought back a smile but didn't fight it. The blue, red and green lights illuminated their faces as they both began to move nervously but soon they were dancing together and Lucy was laughing at his purposely terrible dance moves. She felt the most relaxed she had all evening, a combination of tequila and a pair of deep blue eyes that locked with hers as they nearly pressed against each other. Then the song ended and Gregory was still holding her hand as he went to twirl her once more and Lucy looked at their joint hands. Then back at Gregory. They went back to his dorm via bike. Lucy shrieked and giggled when she covered his eyes, only briefly. Even the cold rain that had started when they ran out of the party, jackets over their heads was enough to kill the mood. Gregory sighed when she rested her head on his back, arms wrapped around his chest. He turned into the college ground entrance, nodding politely to the night guard. She was glad he was on the first floor and hoped they didn't wake anyone else with their laughing and attempts at whispering. “We're here.” Gregory announced, opening the door to his dorm. “Forbidden ground!” Lucy mock whispered, “I feel like I need to take up a sport just by being here!” Corpus Christi was always so competitive It was one of the larger rooms, with a little more space for two chairs and a small coffee table next to the quadrangle windows. She noticed the stack of books on the table, next to a mug full of now cold tea but everything was, to her surprise, neat. Even the double bed was made up. “I could teach you squash.” Gregory joked. "I prefer baseball." Lucy said. "You are so American." "Thank you." Lucy replied, removing her coat and placing it over his desk chair, "Maybe we should do something else." Gregory smirked, raising an eyebrow, "Yeah?"“This wasn't planned or anything, you should know,” Gregory gasped in between desperate kisses. He could feel Lucy's hands carefully unbutton his shirt. She was always so methodical in all she did. It did not surprise him to find that she was like that even now. Lucy couldn't help but giggle, bending her head to undo the last button on his shirt before meeting his eyes again. “What?” Gregory asked, unable to help the smile on his face. He had a favourite sound now; the sound of Lucy's laugh. “You mean, you didn't do all you could to change the weather? Make it rain so I would be here with you?” Lucy asked, mischief all over her pretty face, “Am I not important enough?” She slowly let her dress fall, a boldness in her eyes that he had not seen before. She was only in a simple, sensible matching set - a deep green bra and matching cotton knickers - but Gregory wanted nothing more than to kneel in front of her all night. He inhaled, running a hand through his hair, “Lucinda, you are more important than anything.” He said lowly, taking a step towards her, drawing her back into his arms. His hands roamed over her back and Lucy sighed, angling her head upwards. “Anything? Even rowing? Or soccer?” She whispered against his lips. Gregory nipped her bottom lip when they next kissed, drawing a surprise moan, “It's football and I might have to think about that.” He whispered. She gave him the finger and he returned it with a wide smile that broke her resolve. Lucy, deep under her comforter, thinks about that night, exactly two months ago and makes the decision to text Hermione to stop by Boots and pick up three home pregnancy tests. Because whilst that was a fun night, she realises that she had missed a period. The sickness is an unpredictable result and yet, highly predictable at the same time.
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“Row, you bastards!” Gregory was going to kick Neville in the balls after training. Claiming his arm still hurts far too much to row, Neville had taken on coxing for the day and was having too much fun with it. The sun was still rising over Oxford and Gregory Bridgerton was already plotting to whack Neville ‘accidentally’ with the boat once they returned to the boathouse. However, they did beat their seasonal best this morning, so perhaps Neville's odd brand of encouragement and abuse worked. He would miss it, in his own strange way. When they returned to the bank, Neville, mad with power, was still doling out criticism on technique and Gregory couldn't help but chuckle as he put his oars away in the shed. Felicity ran over from the girls' team morning row and grinned at Gregory. “I could hear Neville over our own cox!” Felicity complained, releasing her light ginger hair from its ponytail. Gregory shook his head, “We gave him a megaphone without thinking of the consequences.” “And now we must all suffer.” Felicity said, pretending to sigh longingly, “Whatever shall we do?” “Not let him get drunk and fall off the JCR sofas?” Felicity looped her arm through his, “Hey, speaking of consequences, are you still coming to St Tropez?” “Yeah, of course.” The trip had been planned for ages. Even when they were in sixth form, the plan was to do an epic summer trip before they had to go into the real world of taxes and jobs and Anthony asked Gregory for the hundredth time over the phone or at family dinner what he was going to do. “Great! Need you to distract from that prick Simon.” Gregory smirked, “He’s your ex and you don’t have to shag him. That’s on you.” “I require distraction from him and Hy is too obsessed with Gareth right now to distract me so I’m going for twin 2.” Felicity said. Neville joined them, wiping himself off with a towel and tossing another one to Gregory. “Greg is already distracted with a certain Lucinda.” Neville teased, slinging an arm around Felcity’s shoulders. She was instantly intrigued as “Still? Have you even asked her out yet?” Felicity complained. “She took his balls that night too, I think.” Neville teased. Gregory rolled his eyes. It was not a sexual thing - no doubt that he was very, very attracted to her. But it was more than that. Lucy Abernathy had been on his mind ever since they were paired in a seminar for a term last year. She had a natural warmth about her that drew him in and they became friends instantly. But Gregory had always wanted more. He just did not know how to ask. He always became tongue-tied whenever he saw her, tripping over his words and then he avoided asking her out altogether. Until that one fateful night. “I hate you both,” Gregory said to Neville and Felicity but there was no heat in his voice. “Can I ask Lucy out? Just so someone does.” Neville wondered aloud and Felicity gently slapped him on the shoulder. Gregory thought about Lucy for most of the day - even when he went to study in a coffee shop for lunch. He looked around, looking for an empty seat when he noticed a familiar head cropped dark hair and walked towards Hermione, tapping them gently on the shoulder. “Gregory, hey!” Hermione greeted, removing an ear pod. He came around so he was sitting across from her. “Hey, sorry if I scared you.” Gregory said. “No, not at all. I love strange men tapping me on the shoulder.” Hermione said, her voice laced with false cheer, “Reminds me that I could be kidnapped at any point in the day.” His ears were burning, in the way that Hermione could get them to. She had this way of tripping him up - not just him, most men she came across. When they first met at a wine and cheese society social, he had thought she was one of the most beautiful people he had seen with her long dark hair and septum piercing. And Hermione had that effect because of their energy and confidence that could fill a room.He randomly asked her if she could do a backflip in the velvet dress she was wearing. She said no and nothing else. But they had this sort of magnetic energy and the two chatted most of the night. He ended up going down on her in a too-small bathroom. But it had not been serious, just fun. Hermione broke out into a teasing smile, “Jesus, you are fully red! I was only joking!” she giggled as Gregory relaxed, sharing a laugh. “You alright though? Dissertation going well?” He asked. “Stressful but nothing I can't handle.” Hermione said, bumping her shoulder against his, “And Lucy's fine too. She's ill, loverboy. Stomach bug.” Gregory's eyes widened, “I didn't ask about Lucy.” “Sure,” Hermione smirked. “I do care about you too, I mean. How are you?” “Thinking about how you would kidnap me.” “You're not a nice person.” “You need to get to know me,” Hermione winked as Gregory shook his head affectionately. Yeah, Hermione was great but his mind still drifted towards Lucy. When Lucy woke early in the morning, the room was filled with a gentle light as the sun rose. The usual violent urge to throw up had diminished, replaced by a lingering queasiness that fluttered in her stomach. Wanting to ease her discomfort, Lucy decided to go for a walk. She chose a dark green matching outfit and crossed the hallway to knock on Hermione’s door. As she waited, she could hear the distant hum of a lawn mower outside, the caretakers ensuring the neatness of the college lawn. A minute later, Hermione opened the door, wearing an oversized Rolling Stones shirt and her dark-cropped hair was dishevelled, indicating that she had woken up quite violently. With narrowed eyes, Hermione glared at Lucy. Lucy, trying to lighten the mood, jokingly asked, “Morning. Walkies?” Despite Hermione’s initial annoyance, they decided to embark on their walk together, venturing into the serene streets of Oxford in the early morning. The soft melody of their footsteps on the pavement accompanied them as they strolled, the cool breeze gently brushing against their cheeks. As they walked side by side, Hermione broached the topic of the impending tests they couldn’t avoid. Lucy, wanting to redirect the conversation, clarified, “I’m not trying to avoid the tests. I just wanted to take a walk because I’m feeling better.” The thought of her pregnancy lingered in the back of her mind, a weight she wasn’t ready to confront just yet. Hermione scoffed, her voice laced with a hint of frustration. “That’s definitely avoiding the tests. They are incredibly important!” They grabbed cups of coffee on their way back to the dorms and Hermione followed Lucy into her room. They were going to have to do this sooner or later and after the coffees were finished, Lucy used all three tests that Hermione had brought her and they sat on the floor. It was the longest three minutes of their lives. Pregnant. Pregnant. Pregnant. Hermione watched Lucy lay down on her bed and she joined her. Lucy couldn't look at her now. It was like she was ashamed, something they had never experienced. Lucy and Hermione befriended one another when Lucy began boarding at sixth form. It was Hermione's first time boarding. They had done first kisses and first times, all night study sessions and knew each others deepest secrets and dreams. Hermione bought a bottle of champagne when Lucy got her summer job at the Ashmolean and when Hermione got her first short story published, Lucy was the first to bring her flowers. “Hey. It's going to be okay.” Hermione said soothingly. “Sure.” “I mean, there are options. A lot of options.” Hermione assured, “And I can help you. You helped me, remember?” Lucy places her hands on her stomach, pulling down her leggings down a little. It didn't look any different as her stomach did yesterday. “Am I a bad pro-choice girl if I want to keep it?” Lucy wondered aloud. “Um, no? I mean, the part of pro-choice is the ability to make that choice and develop healthy relationships not only with your own body but the child, the other parent of the child - a baby who is wanted does better than a baby who is forced on someone.” Lucy huffed a small smile. “I think childbirth sounds horrific, for what it's worth.” Hermione said quietly, still holding her hand, “Fine, yes, you get a cute baby at the end but still, shitting yourself on a table doesn't sound pleasant.” “I thought you were trying to help?” Lucy asked. “Can't help you if you don't have the facts, Luce.” “That's true.” “I'm always right.” Lucy snuggled close to her, draping an arm over her and Hermione turned to her, “Hey,” Hermione whispered, looking her in the eyes, “It's going to be okay. No matter what you choose, I'm here.” “I know, ‘mione. I know.” Lucy whispered. “So, who's the baby daddy?” Hermione asked. Lucy froze, groaning, “I have to tell him, don't I?” She would have to tell him and she needs to talk to Richard and uncle Robert. “Who is it? I won't laugh if it's embarrassing.” Hermione promised, “But I will put both your faces into one of those face merger apps and then laugh if the baby is ugly as fuck.” Lucy laughed, despite her inner crisis, “Babies can't be ugly!” “I have seen objectively ugly babies. Your baby pictures are cute though.” She wondered what Gregory looked like as a baby. He was probably very cute as he was now. Babies that look like her and Gregory.Gregory did not expect to see Lucy today. But she was lingering near his college boat house after his Thursday afternoon row. He paused as he put his rowboat away, taking a breath. He could do this. Gregory smiled at her and she returned the smile nervously, brushing back her long curly hair when he approached her. “Hello.” He said. “Hey.” Lucy gave him a small wave, “I am pregnant.” she stated. Gregory's eyes widened and he felt his stomach drop. Either this was a very strange dream or Lucy just told him she was pregnant. No, it was the latter. He looked from her worried expression to her stomach. She was wearing a pair of blue jeans and a cream cardigan, so he couldn't really tell. Lucy, meanwhile, was waiting for him to say something. His eyes were wide and he was silent for the longest she thinks he's ever been. “Pregnant? With a baby?” Gregory finally said. Lucy furrowed her eyebrows, “What else would be pregnant with?” she asked. “Right, yep, of course.” “Don't you have like, fifteen siblings?” Lucy asked. She had met a few, she thinks. His twin sister Hyacinth and his older brother Colin who helped him move into his second year house - or it could have been another brother. “I have seven siblings.” “No wonder you're so fertile,” Lucy muttered to herself but didn't realise that Gregory had heard her and nearly choked on the air. His eyes widened even further and he spluttered, “Wait, it's mine?” “Yes.” “I- don't take this the wrong way, but are you sure?” Gregory asked. He was sure they used a condom. Lucy understood why he was asking. It was the logical reaction she supposed but that didn't mean it hurt in a way. She looked at the ground before looking at him again and noticed the apologetic expression on his face.” “I am very sure. You were the last guy I slept with.” Lucy said. “I remember when.” Gregory said, a small smile on his face, “You left when I woke up.” He remembers waking up after eleven and a space next to him when he rolled over. He saw Lucy at brunch with Arthur and Hermione and smiled at her. She had smiled back and his whole day was great from then. Her eyes closed briefly as she smiled nervously, “Yeah, yeah I did. I didn't want to presume something and I'm not presuming now. I just, I wanted to tell you.” She said quietly. Gregory nodded. Lucy was always considerate, it was one of his favourite things about her. Considerate enough to tell him that she was pregnant with his child. A child. They made a child. It wasn't exactly complicated - sex where they were both slightly drunk and way too happy. He could hear Anthony's voice telling him to be more responsible and his mother, his dear mother reminding him that she told him to always use protection because it was the healthiest thing to do (he wasn't sure who hated The Talk more - him, Hyacinth or their mother, Violet Bridgerton who probably had to drink a scotch afterwards) “Well, I'll support you. Whatever you want to do. I'm here, Luce.” He assured, “It's your choice, you know.” “I know that.” Lucy said firmly, “And I think that I would like to have this baby.” She said matter of factly. Gregory nodded, “Okay then.” He agreed. He would probably follow her into a fire but that would likely be easier than telling his siblings he was having a baby.
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Two weeks later
Richard Abernathy II was a rather shy man, despite his tall frame. He shared his sister's deep brown eyes and love of learning but he was a scientist and botanist rather than historian. If Lucy enjoyed studying the Tudors, her brother could tell her what flowers were carried at each of Henry VIII’s wedding. Lucy watched him in his office at Greenwich, looking over a leaf pressed in a glass dish. “Nice digs.” Lucy remarked, leaning against the door jamb, “Even a window!” “Lucy!” Richard exclaimed, a smile growing on his face. He removed his silver-rimmed glasses “I thought I was meeting you for graduation?” “Sorry to disappoint.” She shrugged, ignoring the nagging feeling that she hadn't quite disappointed him yet. Richard smiled softly, standing up and making his way around the desk, “Not a disappointment. Not at all.” He assured me, “Have you finished your dissertation? Is everything okay?” “Yeah, I submitted it last week. I just wanted to come home early. Is that okay?” She asked nervously. He softened, “Always. Um, let me grab you my keys and I'll meet you at home later. They had been separated for some time - university and boarding schools- but Lucy always enjoyed coming home to see her big brother. Richard had sold the house in Washington, adding it to the family trust - especially when he realised how much their Uncle Robert was taking for himself and cut him away from their family. They had kept their home in London, the one their father's parents had given to him and Lucy had quite literally been born here (unlike with Richard, she was not on time but quite early) The Georgian townhouse was large, bright, and homely. Lucy smiled to herself seeing the number of plants around the house, all healthy and green. She went to her room, which still looked how it did last December - a clothes rack full but there was space in her closet, a stack of history books on the floor next to her bed and an orchid, pink and healthy in the corner. Flopping down on her bed, she picked up her phone, wondering if she should call Gregory. She didn't want to bother him or come across as pushy. Her thumb hovered over his name on her contacts, but she faltered, leaving him be. She knew he needed time. Richard came home a few hours later with dinner from an Italian place. Lucy was sitting at the wooden bench on the first-floor terrace, watching the sunset and grinned when he arrived. “Outside dinner?” He asked.
Lucy shrugged, “The weather is nice enough.”
“Hermione says hi,” Lucy said, taking out the food from the bag as Richard brought cutlery to the table. She noticed how he rolled his eyes as he sat down. “Stop that! You like Hermione!” “I tolerate her because she is your best friend.” Richard corrected, “She is insane.” “She's not insane.” Lucy defended, “She is adventurous. You could try it.” Richard scoffed, “I am adventurous. I was in the Amazon in January.” “Looking at plants, not fighting the animals there.” “Why would any fool fight a jaguar or a toucan?” Lucy grinned as her brother shook his head, as he always did when he feared she was being serious. But her face fell when he took a bottle of white wine from the fridge and glasses from one of the cupboards, setting one in front of her. “I can't. Because of the baby.” Lucy said. Richard chuckled, pouring the wine into the glasses, “What baby?” “My baby.” Richard Abernathy, much like his father, was notoriously unflappable. He could be absorbed by his research and be told that the building was on fire but would continue on. So him pausing and putting the bottle down to stare at his baby sister was new. Lucy stared back, eyes wide as she waited for him to speak. “Rich? Richard?” Lucy softly called his name. “You are joking?” Richard asked. Lucy mutely shook her head, scared to move He sat down, taking a breath, “How did that happen?” “Well, when two people -” Lucy began smartly but stopped when she noticed her brother's incredulous stare. “Lucinda. I meant, how did you-? You know how to use protection!” Richard scolded. Lucy folded her arms, “Yes, I do and the pill is only ninety per cent effective.” “Condoms, Lucinda.” She would usually laugh at how serious he was. But she pushed back her curly hair and stared at her brother. “You're keeping it?” Richard asked, “You wouldn't tell me unless you were actually thinking of doing this.” “I- yes.” Lucy sighed, “Yes, you are going to be an uncle.” “Not because some idiot is pressuring you?” “No, no, I'd never do that. I made this decision and I'm scared as shit and I… I came here. I came home.” She told him purposefully, her eyes pleading with him to understand what she meant. Richard let out a long sigh. In these moments, he looked like how she remembered her dad looked.
"The father... is he involved? Are the two of you together?" He asked. She nodded, "Okay." He whispered, "Can we eat?" Lucy was surprised but nodded and they ate dinner in silence. Even after dinner, they washed up and cleaned up in silence, the television playing some cooking show from the living room providing background noise. Lucy looked around the living room and her eyes landed on a picture of her parents. They were young, probably the same age as her or Richard and they were both in Blackpool on a windy day but they were smiling, huddled together. Richard sat down on the sofa next to her, leaning forward with a pensive look on his face. “What are you thinking about?” Lucy asked nervously. “I need to move my office to the room on the third floor. It'll be less stressful for you and it's big; big enough for a crib. It used to be your nursery before we moved to America.” Richard listed, looking up at the ceiling, "I mean, I'd prefer you stay here. I don't know your... friend's plans but we can make one. Second floor works nicely." Lucy felt herself tear up and she wrapped her arms around her brother. He stiffened, surprised but soon relaxed and gently rubbed her back. “You're really great, Dickie.” Lucy whispered.Over in Mayfair, Gregory arrived at the Bridgerton townhouse. He was surprised his mother had not opened up Aubrey Hall in Kent yet, but with his siblings scattered, she likely didn't see the need to open the large estate yet. Gregory smiled at the housekeeper, Mrs Wilson, when she let him in and grinned when his mother nearly dropped a vase of flowers upon seeing him. “Gregory!” Violet exclaimed, wrapping him in a hug. She was dressed in a "Hi mum," He said, "How are you?" "The better for you!" Violet said, "Come, sweetheart. Do you want something to eat? A cup of tea?" "Tea would be great." Gregory sighed. They sat in the main living room, Violet pouring them both cups of tea from one of her many prettily patterned tea sets. He thinks this is one his sister-in-law Kate gave to her for her birthday. Violet could see how nervous he was, watching as Gregory scratched the back of his head, he sat down and his mother frowned, “What is the matter?” “I… I am…” He opened and closed his mouth, trying to get the words out but he couldn't. "Is it your dissertation? I thought you submitted it?" "Yes, my dissertation was fine." Gregory replied, "I hated every minute of it, but it is done. Exams were fine." "So whatever is the matter?" “She's pregnant.” Gregory blurted out to his mother's amusement. “Who is pregnant?” “My friend Lucy. She's pregnant. I'm the father. We are having a baby.” He rushed out. He needed that cup of tea now, which he sipped as Violet blinked several times, her own cup and saucer in her hands. “Oh.” Was all she said and took a sip of her tea before placing her cup and saucer down. “Well, this is rather unexpected.” Violet said with a light chuckle, running her fingers over the string of pearls on her neck, ‘A baby.” “Yeah. A baby. I know it was not the plan but I want to be there for her. For both of them.” Gregory said firmly. Violet smiled, “I am glad that you are taking responsibility. Good.” she said, “I would like to meet her. Lucy - did you say that was her name?" "Yes." "I would like to meet her very much.” She gave a small, tentative smile, as though she was adjusting the future in her mind. Gregory nodded, “Yeah, that sounds good.” He smiled in relief when she squeezed his hand. "Oh, another baby. Between Daphne and now you, maybe Anthony soon - I shall have my hands full!" Violet was saying, "What are your plans? You have the editor offer from Penguin, that's fine. Marriage? I can't plan a wedding on short notice." "Mum, its not the 1800s. We don't need to get married. We're friends." "Who slept together?" Violet replied, "I do not recall being so friendly with my friends. Well, I did get that friendly with your father at uni." Gregory choked on his tea as his mother smiled mischievously, "That's too much information, mum. Way too much."If Gregory had thought his news would stay quiet for long, he was an idiot. The following morning, Violet informed him that they were to have a family meeting. A full family meeting - in laws and all. Anthony, the eldest, was married to a fellow barrister Kate Sharma. He had chilled out significantly since his marriage but was still rigid in many aspects. Kate was just like him but was better at adapting - and knew how to put her husband in his place. It was what they all loved about her - Anthony especially. Benedict came with his fiancé Sophie, the artsy couple were always so relaxed. He was Anthony's opposite, always seeing the brighter side of things.
Daphne was in London with her husband Simon but the idea of them wrangling their two children who were under five for what Simon saw as ‘Bridgerton foolishness’ was not in their mind. Colin was still in Greece with Penelope, the young writing couple on a retreat but we're calling in via facetime. As were Francesca and Eloise, both in Scotland - studying a Masters and PhD respectively. And Hyacinth - his beloved twin, the one whom he had shared a womb with had returned a day after him. She had brought her boyfriend Gareth who was like a deer in headlights, faced with his first Bridgerton family meeting and its chaos. “Pregnant?” Hyacinth exclaimed, pacing the length of the kitchen, “Did you not learn how to use a condom? Do we need to return to the basics?” “Hy, just calm down.” Gareth tried and she glared at him. Hyacinth looked at Felicity, angry with her friend, “I can't believe you let him-” “I'm sorry, next time I'll jump in front of him before he has sex!” Felicity retorted. Anthony was rubbing his forehead, which Gregory knew a too well meant he was about to say something he wouldn't like. He wanted to protect the family and their reputation, after all. "Do you know if the baby is yours?" Anthony asks and Gregory glared at him. There was a chorus of eye rolls and sighs from the siblings present and remote, but the eldest Bridgerton stood firm. “I don't mean to sound crass-” Anthony began and Gregory began to walk towards him. “Then shut up.” Benedict interrupted, looking between his two brothers. He was not in the mood to break up the fight. Anthony glared at Benedict but it was Kate who gave her husband a pointed look that meant he stopped before his youngest brother decided to fight with him. “Lucy is pregnant with my child.” Gregory stated. “Do uni students not get abortions anymore?” Eloise asked and Francesca gently hit her on the arm, “What? It's a valid question! He's going to get married.” “We talked and she wants to have the baby.” Gregory said, looking at the laptop, “And we're friends. I'm not getting married." He added. “Is this the Lucy I met?” Daphne asked curiously, “When I came to see you last year?” Gregory nodded, remembering that Daphne had met Lucy, albeit briefly. Daphne was in Cambridge for a photoshoot and wanted to see her baby brother and Lucy was sitting at a table nearby in the cafe where they grabbed lunch. “You've met her?” Anthony asked his sister who nodded innocently. “Is she crazy?” Hyacinth asked. “She must be if she's got a thing for Greg.” Colin joked. “She seemed really sweet, actually.” Daphne said, “Shy for a historian.” “How do you remember that?” Gregory asked, surprised and Daphne shrugged.
"So you can remember that but not my birthday present?" Eloise asked, "Suspicious, Daph." "I'm pregnant, my brain is being very selective." Daphne defended, "And I sent you your present a day late! Don't be mean!" "You are always pregnant." Francesca joked. "Simon, leave our sister alone!" Benedict added jokingly as their brother in law left the frame of the video call. Gregory walked out of the kitchen into the garden whilst the rest of his siblings argued - it was no longer about him, and he was glad. He knew he would have to speak to Anthony again, to straighten things out. The last thing he needed was his brother meeting Lucy and demanding a paternity test. Sophie had followed him outside and sat down next to him on a bench, smoothing out her soft blue polka dot dress. Her eyes were always full of kindness and calm, something Gregory appreciated amidst the chaos of his family. “A baby. Wow. A baby and a Cambridge degree.” Sophie mused, “Talk about overachieving.” she quipped, bumping his shoulder with hers. Gregory smiled, “Yeah. It's wild.” “Are you going to be there for her and the kid?” Sophie asked, “All for the feedings and your girlfriend's midnight cravings?” “I am. I will be.” Gregory promised. “Good.” Sophie said simply, “Can't wait to meet her. The girl you go gaga about.” “I do not go ‘gaga’ over anyone!” “Please! Remember when you came down to the cottage and all you could say was Lucy this and Lucy that!” Sophie reminded him, poking him in the side. “We're friends.” Gregory said defensively. “Oh, I'm sure.” Sophie replied sarcastically. She stood up and ruffled his hair, “We're all here for you, Greggy. Let your family freak out like they always do. Best part of being younger? Everyone else has done it all before.” “You married into this, what does that say about you?” Gregory pointed out. Sophie playfully stuck her tongue out before returning inside. Gregory took his phone out of his pocket “Hey.” “Hey. How are you?” A simple ‘hey’ could always mean something between the two of them. “Good, good.” Lucy replied, “I just took a nap.” She yawned whilst saying, “Sorry.” “It's okay.” He chuckled, “I, uh, told my family." He glanced inside, "I think they, um, took it well. My mum did. She wants to meet you." "My brother wants to meet you too." Lucy said, "'I have an appointment, by the way. For Friday? You don't have to "I want to, Luce." Gregory interrupted before she rambled excuses for him, "I want to," He said softly and he could hear her gently sigh as though relieved, "You know I'm here for you. "Good." Lucy said, "I'll text you the address to the doctor's. I'm going to make some tea." "Better not microwave the water." Gregory teased. "I did that once!" Lucy defended, giggling, "I know how to make tea! I'm half British." Gregory laughed, "You are so American." "I thought you liked that about me." Gregory paused. I love that about you he said in his head, "I do." There was a long pause between them and he could hear her her softly breathing. It should have felt awkward but he could sit with Lucy anywhere, so the phone was no different. Hanging up was easy but he preferred her company right now and she preferred his company on the phone right now.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Packing up from uni one last time was a bittersweet affair. Cambridge had been a second home for three years. Now, he was to leave it, ready to move on.And he had a much bigger adventure to go on - a baby.Gregory was rather surprised that his whole family didn’t fight to come down - but his mother, Anthony and Kate helped him neatly box and pack everything up.“You would shove everything in a suitcase if we left you to it!” Kate said, carefully wrapping mugs in the newspaper, "Why don't you guys bring down the suitcases and grab coffees?" "Yes," Violet agreed. She looked at Anthony, that pointed 'make-up with your brother look' that she had perfected over the years, "That would be good." Anthony nodded and silently tilted his head, indicating Gregory followed him. They took the two large suitcases and walked down the steps of the building, all the way out to the carpark, where numerous other families were helping their students pack away their things. Since the family meeting, Anthony had not said much about any of it. Deciphering the eldest Bridgerton was a task few could accomplish - mainly their mother, Kate and Daphne, and sometimes Simon.However, Gregory often found it difficult to gauge Anthony’s true emotions behind his sharp words.Wanting clarification, Gregory asked bluntly, “Are you disappointed?”Anthony opened the boot, put in the first suitcase, shook his head, and replied, “Not disappointed. Surprised. Just very surprised.”Gregory couldn’t help but think of Sophie’s comment about everyone else having done more and maybe worse Gregory admired his eldest brother and aspired to be like him, except for his previous treatment of women before Kate.“Parenthood is a big deal,” Anthony stated. “It’s not simply cute babies and all that.”Gregory finished his sentence, saying, “It’s sacrifice.”Anthony glanced at him and nodded, acknowledging that it was indeed hard work. “Do you all record my conversations?” He asked.“Mum says the same thing. You tend to repeat yourself. Whether it's babies or pets. You might want to switch up the speech for Neddy.” Gregory smirked and Anthony huffed a laugh.Anthony smiled ruefully, knowing that Gregory was right. Their mother had instilled a strong sense of responsibility in all of them, and Anthony always tried to follow her example.Anthony inquired, “So, when do we get to meet her? Lucy?”Gregory responded, “When she wants to meet all of you. She’s already overwhelmed, and I don’t want her to be frightened.”Anthony chuckled and teased, “You make us sound feral.”“You have met Hyacinth?”“She’s your twin.” Anthony stuffed his hands in his pockets and added, “I can’t believe she’s Bobby Abernathy’s niece. So much for family values.”“You don’t actually believe that crap?” Gregory wondered, “I’m not proposing to Lucy like it’s the 1800s and all that born on the wrong side of the bed crap.”Anthony admitted, “I understand some of it, not all of it, obviously. But family is important. And you’re going to add to it. I’m not going to pretend to be thrilled with the circumstances, but I’m happy if you are. And especially if mum is.”Gregory smiled and nodded, briefly hugging Anthony. “Thanks, Ant. Even though you can be such an old man sometimes.”Anthony chuckled and protested, “I am not!”Gregory playfully retorted, “You are! I’ll get the baby to call you PeePaw.”Anthony quickly responded, “Do not, Kate and Ben would not let me rest.”Standing outside of the doctor’s office, Lucy sipped on a smoothie, waiting for Gregory to arrive. Hermione may have been right - a dragon fruit smoothie could help.Suddenly, she heard the sound of Gregory’s voice, his footsteps hitting the pavement as he jogged towards her. The sound of his breathless greeting mixed with the distant sounds of city life.“Hey.” “Hi.” Neither knew if they should shake hands or hug. How did you greet the parent of your child?“Did you pack up from Cambridge alright?” Gregory asked conversationally.“Yeah. Richard took care of it.” Lucy said, “I wasn’t feeling too well.”“Is something wrong?” Gregory asked.“Just normal pregnancy stuff, I think,” Lucy assured him.They walked closely together as they went inside.Dr Alice Mondrich was a warm presence, in her deep purple uniform and white coat. Her exam room was clinically clean but still warm with cartoon ducks on a poster on the wall and a family picture on her desk.“It is very nice to meet you, Lucy.” Alice smiled, “We’ll be seeing a lot of each other.” She looked at Gregory, “Who is this?” “Um, this is the father. My friend.” Lucy introduced and she nodded. There were so many family setups nowadays, that she was not going to judge unless her patients were negatively affected.“Um, Lucy said that she had been feeling really ill. That is normal, right?” Gregory asked.Alice smiled comfortingly, “Yes, it is.” She looked at Lucy, “May I ask, what are you experiencing?”“Um, well, the sickness when I wake up. Milk always smells funny and sometimes I’m just super tired.” Lucy explained, “And my boobs are sore.” Her face warmed and Gregory shifted his gaze downward, a mix of understanding and shyness in his eyes.“Well it is all normal but we’ll draw blood just to make sure that everything is well with you and let’s see what’s happening in there. How does that sound?” Alice checked and Lucy felt a sense of ease wash over her, nodding. She rather liked this doctor.Lucy pulled her t-shirt out of her jeans and the doctor rubbed a cold gel on her stomach. She then ran the transducer across her stomach and the three looked at the ultrasound screen.On the screen was a grainy, black-and-white image. But you could see the baby.“There is the little one.” Alice said, “Thirteen weeks along.”“Wow.” Gregory whispered.It was surreal, to see the baby for the first time. Lucy inhaled gently and loosely laced her fingers with his, looking over at the screen.“Look, it’s our baby, Gregory.” She whispered. He smiled and squeezed her hand twice. After blood was drawn, pictures and printed the next appointment was set up, and they sat in a coffee shop together. Lucy inhaled the sweet smell of the various caffeinated drinks being made - before reminding herself that she could no longer have any. She put the ultrasound picture on the table, turning it upside down and then the right way around.“It kind of looks like an alien,” Lucy remarked, letting out a giggle to herself. Gregory couldn’t help but smile.“I don’t think it’s going to burst out of your chest, Luce.” “Sometimes it feels like that. You know the baby is taking calcium from my bones right now?”He pushed his teacup towards her and she grimaced but was relieved to see it black.“I’ll order another one. The smoothie you had wasn’t too bad, was it?”“It was from a place Hermione recommended. Maybe it’s just warm milk.” Lucy shrugged. She put her hands on her stomach and watched Gregory’s eyes wander to her stomach.“Stop that.” Lucy warned. Gregory frowned, confused.“Stop what?”“Looking at my stomach.” Lucy said, “You keep looking at my stomach.””Sorry, you’re not showing. It just the baby’s the size of an apricot, according to the leaflet.” Gregory said softly, “It’s just insane and incredible.” Lucy softened, “Sorry. I’m grouchy. Heartburn.” She rubbed her chest, taking a deep breath. It came and went and she was always tired.“It’s okay.” He smiled gently, “I’ll get you some Gaviscon. And a sip of my coffee, if you want. The heartburn is my fault, after all.”“It is. No coffee, but I’ll accept your fries.” Lucy smiled.“You mean chips?” Gregory teased.As they tucked into their meals, Lucy decided to broach a rather delicate subject.“My brother wants to meet you,” Lucy told him.“Funny, my brothers and sisters want to meet you. And my mum.” Gregory told her.Lucy huffed, feeling anxious at the thought. “Do they want to meet the mean American who baby-trapped you?” she asked teasingly.“Actually, they’re all busybodies,” Gregory said with a smile. “And a bit excited.”“I’d like to meet them. I mean, it’s nice that they want to be involved,” Lucy said, slightly comforted by that idea. “My brother won’t shoot you if you were worried. We’re not those kinds of Americans.”“Where did you live in America?” Gregory asked curiously.“Washington, then Connecticut. My mom was a Congressional aide and my dad was working for the British embassy when they met,” Lucy explained, a small smile on their face. “Then they moved back here.”Gregory noticed the slight sadness in her eyes as she then focused on pushing around a fry on her plate. “I’m sorry that they’re not here,” he said softly.“Me too,” Lucy whispered. Her lips quirked upwards, “My dad was Scottish, so he might have tried to kill you.”Gregory laughed. “Well, he would have probably beaten my dad. He was born and bred in Kent and liked arranging flowers, apparently.”“That’s sweet,” Lucy smiled. “Is he mad at you?”Gregory’s smile faltered. “No, no, he, uh, died when Hyacinth and I were a year old. We didn’t really know him.”“I’m so sorry,” Lucy quickly said, feeling a pang of sympathy. “I didn’t realize.”Gregory smiled and placed a hand over hers. “Well, we make quite the pair. The kid only has one grandparent.”“Could be a fun fact in pre-school,” Lucy joked, trying to lighten the mood. Gregory smiled in response.He walked her to the tube station, given they were going in different directions. They split up the ultrasound pictures, and Lucy placed hers in her purse. “Gregory?” she called him before he said goodbye. He stopped and looked at her attentively.“I know this is so weird and kind of scary, and we haven’t known each other super well, but I’m glad I’m doing this with you,” Lucy told him, sincerity in her eyes.Gregory smiled gently. “I’m glad I’m doing this with you too.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Lucy meets Daphne when she is twenty weeks pregnant. Daphne Bridgerton exuded both loveliness and a hint of intimidation, not due to her stature - as she and Lucy were the same height - but rather in her demeanor. Despite being seven months pregnant, she held herself with grace and radiated a beautiful glow in her white linen shirt dress. Sitting in her living room that Lucy couldn't help but feel a bit awkward. Not only did she feel underdressed in a long green skirt that fit over her bump, docs and brown t-shirt that still fit, but she felt under prepared. Already a mother of two with her third pregnancy underway at the age of twenty-one, just like Lucy, she listened as Daphne shared her birthing plans. "We're planning a home birth," Daphne informed her. "But don't worry, we have a midwife and doula on standby, and my mother will be there too. She's always a great support." Lucy suppressed the urge to mention that her own mother had passed away, noticing the subtle change in Daphne's expression - the Duchess likely realizing her potential misstep. Instead, Lucy took a sip of her tea and offered a reassuring smile. Curiosity getting the better of her, Lucy blurted out, "What is childbirth like?" She immediately cringed at her own question, feeling it was rather foolish. However, Daphne smiled warmly in response. "It hurts! Anyone who says otherwise is lying," she chuckled. Glancing at the wall adorned with numerous photographs, Daphne continued, "But it's all worth it. Auggie's birth was easy, Belinda was overdue, but I hope little Cecilia here gives us as little trouble as possible!" Sheepishly, Lucy admitted, "I haven't thought about names yet." Daphne shrugged, reassuringly saying, "That's perfectly fine. Just make sure to decide soon. The last thing you want is to name your child while under the influence of pain medication.”The older woman noticed frankly how anxious Lucy was. The way she crossed and uncrossed her legs, clutching the coffee mug full of tea (Daphne allowed it because she was an American).Smiling kindly, Daphne stood and went over to the coffee table and picked up two, three books from the pile before finding the one she was looking for and held it out to Lucy.“Professor Charlotte Mecklenburg, a gynecologist and mother of many children herself, wrote a book titled 'How to Have Your Babies,' which Lucy found particularly helpful. Daphne enthusiastically recommended the book, saying, "She is incredible; her book is great. It has helped me so much." Daphne reassured Lucy, "You are family now, after all." Lucy, feeling flustered, responded, "Oh, Gregory and I aren't... We're doing this together, but we're just friends." Daphne's face fell, mouth slightly agape, saying, "Oh, of course. Sorry. But you are family, really. And we're all here for you. So ask away, even if you think it's a silly question."Just as Lucy was about to speak, Gregory burst into the room, announcing his presence with a loud roar. Auggie, a four-year-old, was sitting on Gregory's shoulders, gripping his hair tightly, while Belinda clung to his waist. Both children were laughing as Gregory playfully roared like King Kong. Lucy couldn't help but smile at the sight. Daphne, however, frowned and crossed her arms, reprimanding Gregory, "Gregory, what have I told you about carrying them both like this?" Gregory sheepishly replied, "Uh, not to?" Daphne rolled her eyes affectionately and looked at Lucy. “He truly has not changed from his youth.” "We've been caught." Gregory whispered to Auggie, "Act natural." The three of them folded their arms, and the children struggled to hold back their giggles."Daddy!" cheered Auggie as he ran to Simon, who effortlessly caught him. Belinda, on the other hand, took her time toddling over to Simon's leg and greeted him with a slobbery kiss. Gregory smiled and introduced Lucy, saying, "Si, this is Lucy, my friend." Simon Bassett was simply, a handsome specimen of a man. Lucy did her best not to Google anyone in the family, but she wished she had because she (and her ever-raging hormones) would have been prepared for Simon's soft brown eyes and warm smile.No wonder Daphne was always pregnant, she thought to herself. But Lucy shook those thoughts away, putting them under the thoughts she had around Gregory and his deep blue eyes. "Lucy, nice to finally meet you." Simon shook Lucy's hand and said, "Welcome to the madness." He then turned to Daphne and asked, "How are you feeling, Daph?" Daphne assured him, "I'm fine. Just here to let Lucy ask anything and everything about the wonderful world of pregnancy and childbirth."Lucy shared, "I don't really have anyone in my family who has given birth. Well, there was my mom, but she passed away when I was little."Simon nodded sympathetically and replied, "I'm sorry to hear that. I understand." He had unfortunately lost his mother to post-birth complications. He picked up the fussy Belinda and asked Lucy, "Do you have siblings?" Lucy smiled and answered, "I have a big brother, Richard. He's been great. And my friend Hermione. And, of course, Gregory."She met his eyes when she smiled, and Gregory took her hand. They decided on a friendly dinner party, where Hyacinth and Richard would meet Lucy and Gregory respectively. Hermione, Gareth, Felicity and Arthur were all there to act as buffers and to celebrate the pregnancy. Hermione and Arthur came by with multiple shopping bags, Lucy so glad to see her closest friends. Hermione went on vacation with her family to Singapore, so she was very excited not only to be in London again, but to see Lucy again."Hi! Mum sends her love and also asked me to tell you to use breast pumps." Hermione said to Lucy in greeting.Lucy giggled, taking a shopping bag from her, going to the kitchen, "Breast pumps?""She'll send you a set," Hermione replied. Her mother was incredibly practical about everything, something Hermione enjoyed railing against whilst Lucy rather liked it.Arthur set down the bags on the kitchen counter. "Right, I bought a Blackberry and apple crumble and ice cream for pudding. I also bought wine. Wine is a great ice breaker.""I know how you are, Dickie, about saying in season," Hermione said with a teasing grin, "I told him to get blackberries."Richard rolled his eyes as he opened up the oven to put the tray of vegetables in. "Thank you, Hermione." "Will you tell me the history of blackberries?" Hermione asked, batting her eyelids."Later," Richard said with a fond look on his face. He couldn't help it when it came to Hermione. The nerves he would get and how she would get under his skin.Arthur and Lucy smiled knowingly at each other, noticing this, and were waiting for one of them to make their move before she would step in.Hermione took numerous bottles of wine out of the bag, ignoring Richard's reproachful look. "What? You said to bring drinks.""I was hoping for cordials, juice," Richard remarked but took the bottles of white wine and rose to the fridge. "What, because Lucy can't drink, we can't?" "She's drinking for the both of us." Lucy added, "I'm going to have a quick lie down before dinner.""Take your supplements!" Hermione and Richard reminded her simultaneously, making Lucy roll her eyes.Gregory, Hyacinth, Felicity, and Gareth strolled down the streets towards the Abernathy family house. Gregory, visibly nervous, tightly held a bouquet of peonies for Lucy and a gift bag. "So, we're all on our best behavior tonight," Gareth remarked, his eyes fixed on his girlfriend.He admired the protective nature of Hyacinth Bridgerton towards her loved ones. Felicity draped an arm over Gregory's shoulders and teased, "I wonder how Lucy is handling a big-headed Bridgerton baby?"Hyacinth quickly dismissed the notion, stating, "Bridgerton babies do not have big heads." Gregory, wanting to make a good impression, interrupted, "Richard is important to Lucy. He's the only family she has."This dinner was meant to be a gentle introduction to his family by his closest friends and sister.They reached the house and Richard greeted them at the door, saying, "Hello. Welcome. You're on time," as he checked his watch. He detested lateness.They entered the house, hung up their jackets, and Richard gave Gregory a once-over. "It's nice to meet you," he finally said, shaking Gregory's hand."Likewise," Gregory replied nervously, "Lucy has told me so much about you."The older man looked puzzled. "Like what?"Gregory's cheeks flushed as he struggled to respond. Felicity let out a chuckle, and Gareth couldn't contain his smile."Um, she said that you are her brother," Gregory eventually said, "And that she loves you.""Very detailed," Hyacinth muttered jokingly."Her brother's really cute." Felicity whispered to Hyacinth and Gareth looked at her, "What? He is?"Hermione came into he corridor, a smile on her face, "Hey guys! Good to see you." She hugged Gregory, and said hello to the other three, "Greg, Lucy's taking a rest upstairs in her room, you can go see her. Second door on the right." She told him.Gregory nodded, going up the stairs and the others stayed in the corridor."So, uh, drinks?" Felicity asked.Gregory knocked on her bedroom door and heard a quiet come in. He opened the door to see Lucy on her bed, propped up on numerous cushions, reading another baby book. She looked up and smiled widely at Gregory, "Hey." "Hey."He joined her on the bed. He awkwardly went in for a hug but decided halfway against it. Lucy giggled and quickly embraced him.He glanced around the room, seeing so much of Lucy in the details - from the certificates on the wall to the large number of books and even the plants thriving. He liked coming over and seeing her so comfortable."How was work?" He asked. She was an education coordinator for the National Trust now, something she was enjoying immensely. "I had a group of kindergarteners." Lucy said, "They were all very curious about le bump.""You mean nursery kids." Gregory teased, "How is le bump today?" "I felt him move." Lucy told him and watched his eyes light up, his hand instantly moved to caress the bump, "You can't feel it yet. Wait a few weeks. But he has ears, so maybe tell him to cool it." It was hard to sleep some nights, the bubbling and the fluttering."Hi, in there. It's your dad. Can you not move so much so your mum can sleep?" Gregory said to the stomach, "She can't drink coffee, so she's extra grouchy- ow!"Lucy whacked him with a throw cushion, "Ha ha." She deadpanned, but she couldn't help but smile."We need to give the baby the facts so that he acts accordingly." Gregory teased, stroking her stomach. "Um, speaking of which, I wanted to ask you something."Lucy looked interested, so he continued, "Well, I have a flat. It's a nice flat.""I would hope so.""It's on the ground floor and there's a garden." Gregory described, "And there are three bedrooms."Lucy tilted her head, "Are you asking me if I want to move in with you?" She asked bluntly."You don't have to. I mean, you have a great home here and your brother is great. But I thought maybe it would be easier for us." Gregory explained, "And it would be for as long as you want." He said he wanted to be there for her and the baby and moving into his place."Does your brother own the street or something?""No. My mother does." The properties had been in the Ledger family trust, bought by each couple. Lucy giggled, much to his confusion, "That's so aristocratic." "Yep," Gregory agreed, chuckling."I'd like to think about it." Lucy said honestly, "It's strange, isn't it? We're having a baby, but I need to think about moving in with you." It was like doing everything in reverse. Hell, they had barely gone on a date, and they were having a baby.Gregory chuckled, "I guess. But seriously, come around, and if you hate the place, I'm more than happy to come back and forth. Whatever you want.""Thanks." Lucy kissed him on the cheek, her hand on his cheek. It just felt natural. Gregory's cheek flushed and he smiled, looking down at his lap."How do I look?" Lucy asked. She had chosen a red floral wrap around dress. She stood up, brushing out the wrinkles."You look beautiful." Gregory said sincerely.Lucy felt her cheeks warm at his compliment and he held open the door as they both took a deep breath for dinner.Hyacinth was standoffish, suspicious. Gareth, on the other hand, was excited to meet her."Nice to meet you, both." Lucy smiled, accepting the flowers from Gareth. He even had a gift bag with a set of babygrows and a blanket.Richard had prepared dinner. He put together tenderstem broccoli seasoned with parmesan, rosemary lamb shoulder and smashed potatoes. "I was going to do salmon, but the smell makes Lucy queasy." Richard lamented, as food was passed around, "Shame because it's more seasonal." "It's better for the environment." Felicity pointed out, "But I'm sure the comfort of a pregnant girl is more important.""Exactly." Richard smiled at her, and Hermione narrowed her eyes, looking between them. Arthur gently kicked Hermione under the table, reminding her to remain nice and maybe not mark her territory.Hyacinth, meanwhile, watched Lucy as Gregory glanced at her. Lucy would smile at him, and he removed a shallot from her plate for her. Her brother seemed to dote on his non-girlfriend in a way that she had never seen him do with any girl."So, a baby." Hyacinth stated, "Are you sure you really want to have a baby with my brother?" "Well, yes." Lucy replied, hand on her stomach, "He's been really great.""But the two of you aren't dating." Hyacinth questioned, looking between the two. "Hy." Gregory warned, "I apologise for my sister. We shared a womb, and now she feels entitled to every detail of my life."Felicity clapped her hands. "Vi was telling me that she's going to plan a baby shower if it's something that you want, Luce." She said, "She's super excited to meet you." She heard her mother and Violet speaking, and all sounded well. Violet adjusted well to any crisis. "Um, I am. I haven't decided on a shower or not. Just super busy." Lucy said. She enjoyed the odd party, but it would be nerve-wracking."Do they have baby showers in the States?" Hyacinth asked Lucy."Yes," Lucy replied. She knew Hyacinth was testing, trying to get under her skin. "Hy, they're American, not Martians." Gareth chided, gently nudging his girlfriend, "The Irish don't typically do baby showers. It's the same with some Italians. Bad luck." "I get it; tempting fate." Hermione agreed, "But a shower would be fun." Lucy stood up, "I'm just going to grab something in the kitchen." She had a little heartburn, She went into the kitchen, taking an antacid at the sink, sipping some water. Hyacinth came into the kitchen, holding the glass water "I thought'd I'd refill the water." Hyacinth said, "Tap or...?""Oh, the fridge." Lucy indicated to the fridge tap, "It's filtered."Hyacinth nodded and placed the jug there and Lucy pressed the button to dispense water. They stood in silence "You look nice." Hyacinth eventually said. "Thanks. So do you." Lucy smiled kindly at Hyacinth, "Gregory always tells me that you're the protective one even though you're younger.""My brother likes to give out his heart to the world. Someone has to protect him.""He's a really great person and I don't know if I'd gotten through this without him." Lucy told her, "Just because we're not dating, that doesn't mean we don't care for each other."Hyacinth studied Lucy. She wanted to find something to dislike about her. If anything, she was the opposite of what she presumed. She was stable and settled, and smart. She was nice but clearly not someone who could be walked all over."I'm buying the two of you a Snoo." Hyacinth stated, "For the shower. You should ask Daph about it; Kate says it's a waste of money but I think my new niece or nephew deserves the best, don't you?"Lucy blinked at the rapid change in topic and nodded, "Uh, yeah. That's super nice of you.""Have you bought baby things yet?""I went into John Lewis and went crazy in the baby clothes section." Lucy admitted, thinking of the other day when she went in on her lunch break, just picking up a bunch of onesies, socks and hats. All so tiny and in neutral colours but she nearly cried over how small everything was.Hyacinth smiled slightly, "Well, there are eight of us. Plenty of things to go around. We all chip in." She picked up the now full jug, "We should walk back together. My brother is in love with you and I don't want him to think I made you cry." She stated.Lucy's jaw dropped slightly, but she followed Hyacinth back to the dining room, putting a small smile on her face when Gregory asked if she was feeling alright, his hand on her lower back."I'm okay." Lucy replied. This time, the butterflies in her stomach were not only from the baby.