A few blissful months had passed since their wedding, and life seemed perfect for Tim and Lily. With her internship transforming into a permanent designer position, Lily's hard work was paying off. Now, heavily pregnant and nearing her due date, she was eagerly awaiting the arrival of their baby boy. Meanwhile, Tim was busy with his best friend, Eric, managing a new project at the company, but never too busy to prepare their home for the new arrival. Together, they had lovingly redesigned a room in their house for their son, filling it with soft blues and whimsical clouds.

Tim had one last surprise for Lily before the baby came. He suggested a quick trip to the beach—one final peaceful outing before their lives changed forever.

An hour later, they arrived, the ocean stretching before them. Lily was thrilled to see friends and family waiting, all gathered for a surprise celebration.

"Hey, little sis!" Eric called as they made their way down the sandy path. "We’ve been waiting for you."

"Be careful walking on the sand," Becca added, waving excitedly.

Lily grinned, waving back at everyone. Tim held her arm, guiding her gently to the chairs set up by the water’s edge. "Everything looks delicious," Lily remarked as her eyes roamed over the spread of food.

Emily appeared beside her, holding a fork with a piece of honey chicken. "Try this," she insisted, "It’s a new recipe."

Lily took a bite and her face lit up. "Oh, Em, this is amazing! Can I have more?"

Tim laughed as he fixed Lily a plate, piling it high with her favorite foods. "Mmmm," Lily murmured, savoring each bite. "This is perfect."

As they ate, Becca leaned forward, her excitement evident. "Lils, Ryan and I have something to tell you."

Lily’s eyes darted between them, noticing their beaming smiles as they sat cozied up. "What is it?"

Ryan smirked playfully. "Are you sure you’re ready for it?"

"Yes, yes, just tell me already!" Lily replied, her impatience growing.

Becca’s eyes sparkled with excitement. "We’re going to have a baby too!"

Lily squealed, thrilled for her friends. "Really? Oh, I’m so happy for you both!" She turned to Tim, who was smiling warmly. "Did you hear that?"

"Yeah, congrats, guys," Tim said, his voice filled with sincerity.

Becca and Ryan beamed as they shared details about their ultrasound, excitement thick in the air.

"Who’s up for volleyball?" Eric suddenly called out, clearly ready for some fun.

"I’m in," Tim replied, standing up.

"Me too," Ryan added, eager to join.

"We need one more person," Eric said, scanning the group.

Emily laughed and stood up. "I’ll play, since the other two are pregnant and sitting this one out."

Lily chuckled, patting her swollen belly. "Yeah, I think I’ll just be the cheerleader today."

The game started, and Lily cheered loudly for Tim and Eric’s team. When they scored a winning point, she jumped up in excitement, only to freeze as she felt a sudden gush of warmth.

"Tim!" she shouted, panic creeping into her voice.

He sprinted over. "What’s wrong?"

"My water just broke!" Lily exclaimed, her voice shaking.

Tim’s eyes widened as he noticed her wet pants. "Guys!" he shouted. "Lily’s having the baby!"

Eric jumped into action, quickly organizing everyone. "Get her to the car! Becca, Ryan, pack up here. Emily and I will follow you to the hospital."

Tim rushed Lily into the car, his heart pounding as he sped toward the hospital. Lily gripped his hand tightly, tears streaming down her face. "Tim, it hurts so bad."

"I know, baby. Hang in there. We’re almost there," Tim reassured her, though his own panic was threatening to overwhelm him.

They arrived at the hospital, and nurses quickly wheeled Lily into the delivery room. Tim was by her side, whispering comforting words as the doctor prepared for the birth.

"Okay, Miss, the baby’s ready to come out. I need you to take a deep breath and give me a nice big push," the doctor instructed. "One... two... three... push!"

Lily pushed with all her might, her face contorted with effort. "Ahhh..."

"That’s great!" the doctor encouraged. "One more big push. One... two... three!"

With one final, powerful push, a baby’s cry filled the room. "Congratulations!" the doctor announced. "You have a healthy baby boy!"

Tears filled Lily’s eyes as she looked down at the tiny bundle placed in her arms. Tim gazed at their son, his heart overflowing with pride and love.

"He’s perfect, Lils," Tim whispered, brushing a kiss across her forehead. "You did an amazing job."

Lily smiled through her tears. "I love him so much, Tim."

Soon, their family and friends crowded into the recovery room, eager to meet the newest addition.

"Have you picked out a name yet?" Emily asked, cooing over the baby.

Lily beamed. "Ryder Matthews."

Becca clapped her hands. "Oh, I love it! It’s perfect."

Emily nodded in agreement. "A strong name for a handsome little guy."

Eric clapped Tim on the back, grinning. "You and Lily gave me a perfect nephew. Great job, man."

Tim smiled, his eyes never leaving his wife and son. "Thanks, Eric."

As the room buzzed with laughter and love, Tim felt a surge of gratitude. He didn’t know what he’d done to deserve this happiness, but he knew he was blessed beyond measure. His gaze met Lily’s, and she smiled at him, her eyes glowing with the same love that filled his heart. She mouthed, "I love you."

Tim smiled back, mouthing the same words. This was everything they had ever dreamed of, and now, those dreams had come true.