"You deserve everything good," Cletus said, pulling her close carefully so her belly fit between them. "And I intend to prove that to you every single day."

They spent the evening organizing baby supplies, folding tiny clothes that Aryyah's friend Rukky had given them from her own children, and discussing practical details like pediatrician selection and childcare options.

"Have you told your mother about the pregnancy?" Cletus asked.

Aryyah's face tightened. "Not yet. Our relationship is ...