So it is the day of the dinner party where we plan on telling Bridget's parents and our friends the good news. There will be ten of us in total, Bridget and I, her parents Martha and William, Amelia and her husband Greg – they will be leaving five month old Benjamin at home tonight, but Bridget and I have already agreed to babysit in a few weeks. Two of Bridget's colleagues Maura and James, and lastly, believe it or not Vera and Will. Bridget got friendlier with Vera after she left Wentworth and Vera and Will are now engaged. It's funny how things turn out, I still keep in contact with some of the girls, everyone I was close with is still inside and we write letters on occasion. Last time I wrote was a few months ago, I can't wait to let them know our big news though, all of them were always rooting for Bridget and I, right from the start. I think it's fair to say they will be shocked to learn I'm going to be a mummy!
Our 12-week appointment with Dr Cooper was two days ago, everything is looking perfect and just like the Doc said at our 8-week ultrasound, the heartrate is down to 165bmp, so starting to settle down.
"Franky, can you get the door please darling? I'm just putting my shoes on." I hear Bridget call from our room.
"Yeah babe I'll get it, take your time." I call back to her. Peering through the door I see Amelia and Greg are first to arrive.
"Hi guys, please come in and make yourself at home." They hand me a bottle of wine, commenting that it is Bridget's favourite – 'Bridget will be thrilled' I think sarcastically. I politely thank them and excuse myself to the kitchen to check on the food.
Bridget comes striding into the kitchen a few minutes later to have a quick taste of the food, I turn around to face her and my jaw almost hits the floor when I see the rather tight, wrap style dress she has opted for.
"Wow Gidge, I think you're starting to show." I whisper in her ear as I place a tentative hand on the slight rounding of her belly.
"I know; do you think anyone will notice before we make the announcement? This was the least revealing dress I had, I definitely need to go shopping tomorrow or Sunday before I return to work on Monday." I go to say something but the doorbell rings again, this time Bridget answers and greets her parents and colleagues. Another ten minutes go by then we are joined by Vera and Will.
"Would everyone like to take a seat at the table, dinner is ready." I say and conversations halt momentarily as seats are taken, glasses are filled and dishes served. The meal goes smoothly, with everyone complimenting me on the great food, and making small talk with one another. It is nice to see our family and friends get on so well, it makes me even more excited for when the baby gets here when I look at who they will be calling their grandparents, aunts and uncles.
I look over to Bridget who is sitting beside me and smile, we join hands under the table and wait until there is a natural lull in conversation before I ask for everyone's attention. Immediately the table falls totally silent and eight sets of eyes are staring at Bridget and I. well, 'here goes nothing' I think and give a squeeze to the hand in my own.
"Everyone is probably wondering why Bridget and I asked you all here tonight, we actually have some really big news to let you all in on." I give Bridget a quick nod indicating her turn to speak, she gives me a huge smile, then turns her attention back to the table, where all our guests are waiting patiently.
"I'M PREGNANT!" she can hardly contain her glee as she shouts out the news to our very shocked audience. Her father is the first to open his mouth.
"That is fantastic! Oh Martha! Our little girl is going to be a mother! I am so happy for you both!"
"Yes dear that is wonderful news, Oh William, our first grandchild!"
Everyone else has yet to say anything.
"Well the new job makes perfect sense now Franky, congrats you guys you will both be great! I'll be sure to give you Benjamin all the time now so you can get in the practice." Amelia winks at us, but part of me thinks she probably isn't joking.
"Yes, Bridget, Franky that is such fantastic news, it really is clear how much you love each other, I've seen it since more or less day one – your baby will be so lucky to have you both as it's mothers'." Vera says to us and I see Bridget at the corner of my eye wiping her tears away at the words.
After everyone is done saying their congratulations, giving messages of good luck and telling us their only a phone call away if we need anything, I politely request and end to the evening, seeing how exhausted Bridget looks, I tell them all I need to get my pregnant wife tucked up in bed.