During the previous six months…
Sherman and Penny's excitement for their pregnancy flourished as they received support from Penny's parents-
"Penny, do keep updates on the baby for us, please?" Patty implored.
"Don't worry, Mom. I'll tell you everyday, even if I have nothing to say, if I have to", her daughter replied.
"Just so you two know, as you are new to the whole parents get-up, we have your backs, every step of the way", said Paul.
The couple entwined their hands together and they smiled. (They didn't need to nod. Their smiles pretty much said it all.)
Hosting a baby shower-
Penny's first gift was from Jill. When she opened it, she saw it was mini-sweater she had crocheted. Since she didn't know the gender, the yarn colors alternated between pink and blue. That way it had a purple-ish look and she had also crocheted the words "Made with Passion" on it.
"Jill, it's so beautiful. I don't know what to say…"
"Thank you, Penny. I poured all of my heart into it", Jill responded.
"Here's my gift, Penny", Abby said, handing her her gift. Penny was surprised at the box's size; it turned out to be a crib. I should get Sherman to put it together, she thought.
Speaking of whom-
Sherman hung out at a restaurant with Mason and Carl. (They chose not to go to a bar because everyone does that.) Mason offered to pay for the food; it was the least he could do for his friend that was also a future father.
But Sherman did feel a little down however:
"I wish I could tell Mr. Peabody about this", he told his friends. "He would be so...thrilled." But he was at the hospital from his bad health and he was unable to visit him until he could at least partially get his sight back. (I think you all know why). Further news on his condition would be revealed over time.
"Don't feel too bad, Sherman", Carl said, rubbing his friend's shoulder. "I know he'll be just fine. Probably just the thought of you can keep him going."
"Do you really mean that, Carl?"
"Of course he does, Sherman. Mr. Peabody is a smart dog, a caring father, the whole nine yards", Mason told him. "Now come on. I want you to be happy; Penny probably is."
And so on.
—
Penny experienced cramps, aching legs, and a kicking baby. But she had the help of her husband and parents.
Sherman stood by his wife at every turn, having his fair share of feelings; love for Penny and sympathy for his father.
On the eighth month
"Sherman, I was at the hospital getting my ultrasound and guess what?" Penny said rushing up to him.
"What is it?" he responded.
"We're having twins!"
"Really?! What are the genders?"
"I didn't ask. I told the doctor I wanted to be surprised."
"Oh. Also, I have some news for you too."
"What is it?"
"Mr. Peabody's back home."
"That's great news, sweety."
"But he's in hospice care and they don't know how long it will be."
"Don't you think we should tell him now?"
Sherman thought for a moment. He remembered back to his restaurant talk with Mason and Carl. He finally decided after a bit, hoping the news could make him hold on longer...