A couple of weeks later.
Hanna sits at her desk in her Rosewood workshop.
Hanna "Lis, how many gold shank buttons did you ask me to order?"
Lisa "As many as you want, Han. We are almost out of them. It seems like you've been obsessed with them lately." She chuckles. "Many of your fall-winter collection dresses have them."
Hanna smiles to herself, knowing that's true, while typing on her laptop.
Lisa "Also, we could use some more pearl buttons as well."
Hanna nods. "Noted."
Lisa "Why are you placing the order yourself?" She asks, intrigued, as it's been more than a year since Leo has been taking care of that task, and she and Anna are usually in touch with him to let him know what they need to restock at their Rosewood workshop.
Hanna "Yeah, but… I got him kind of busy with the preparations for the fashion show and stuff, so I'm just giving him a hand with the things we need here." She explains as she keeps clicking and typing on her laptop.
Hanna's phone starts ringing on her desk, so she picks it up. "Well, it's him." She says before answering. "Hey, Leo! What's up?... Oh, really? You've got to be kidding me… No, it's fine. I trust your judgment. Just pick another one… Uh huh… Okay, let me know anything… Thanks, Leo! See you next week." She laughs. "Shut up, idiot! I'll make sure your husband learns about this, I swear!" She playfully says, laughing again. "Yeah, no way. Bye!"
When she finishes the call with Leo, Caleb shows up, wearing a huge smile while carrying a pile of magazines.
Hanna "Hey!" She jumps up from her seat, grinning. "Let me see!"
Caleb "This is great, Han!" He says, placing the magazines on her desk.
Hanna swiftly takes the upper magazine and goes through the pages, looking for her article. "Oh my god!" She says excitedly, finding a huge picture of herself that takes up an entire page, and the amazing headline of the article: "Hanna Marin: From Rosewood to New York City and Beyond" and the subheadline: "Meet the rising star in fashion design: her stunning designs have captivated celebrities and set the fashion world abuzz!"
Lisa and Anna approach too and grab a couple of magazines, excited to take a look as well.
Hanna eagerly flips through the pages, her eyes darting from left to right with excitement, absorbing each detail quickly. Then, she shifts her gaze from the magazine to Caleb, spotting a very proud smile on his face.
Hanna "This is awesome!" She says, completely amazed.
Caleb "You are awesome!" He says, cupping her face in his hands. "Congratulations, my love." He adds, planting a kiss on her lips before releasing her face.
Hanna shoots him a smile before going through the pages again. "This is just way more than I was expecting… have you seen how many pages they used just for my article? They included so many pictures of my dresses… and they even added the pics of Emma Stone and Jennifer Lawrence wearing my designs too…"
Caleb nods. "Yeah, and very impressive pics of yourself too, Han!"
Hanna chuckles. "Yeah, they really made me look like some relevant businesswoman… I seem like an important designer." She says, still staring at the article, unable to believe it.
Caleb "You are, Han!" He reaches out and squeezes her shoulder. "I'm very proud of you."
Hanna shoots him another smile. "Thanks!"
Caleb smiles back. "I gotta run to a meeting now, but I can't wait to sit down and read that article!" He takes a magazine from her desk. "I'll take this one with me."
Hanna nods.
Caleb "Listen, wanna go out to dinner tonight and celebrate?"
Hanna "Sure!" She agrees right away, her grin couldn't be wider at this point.
Caleb "Great! I'll see you later at home, babe."
Hanna "See you, baby. Thanks for the magazines!"
Caleb "You are very welcome!" He kisses her lips once more before walking away.
Lisa "This is absolutely great, Hanna!"
Anna "Yeah, congrats, boss!" She adds excitedly. "You rock!"
Hanna laughs, sitting back in her chair, ready to read the article. She places the magazine on her desk, using one of her hands to pass the pages as she caresses her baby bump with the other. Some tears of joy escape from her eyes as she reads. That article feels like a very important recognition of her hard work, like a reward after everything she's gone through to get where she's at the moment, and a huge push forward to keep on her hard work to achieve even more.
/
Unable to focus on work, Hanna spends the rest of her day basking in the positive repercussions of the magazine article about her. Since she hasn't told anyone about it yet, she takes one of the magazines Caleb bought that morning and stops by the Radley Hotel to have lunch with Ashley and show it to her.
Later, after the social media manager of her brand's accounts posts a few of Hanna's pics from the article along with some quotes, and Hanna re-posts them on her own social media, messages and reactions flood her phone from family, friends, and acquaintances, all offering kind words of congratulations.
The repercussions don't stop there: Hanna even receives a call from The Rosewood Observer, asking for a quick interview for the paper that will come out the next day. After getting the green light from the press agency that manages the public relations of her brand, she gives them an interview over the phone.
Later that evening, back home, already dressed up and touching up her makeup, Hanna receives a text from Caleb: "Hey baby, I'm still stuck here at the office. Something came up. Will be home a little later."
Hanna: "Hey! Sure, don't worry. I was starting to wonder why you weren't home yet. It's fine, we can have a late dinner. I'll have some snacks so our little angel doesn't starve."
Busy with work, Caleb responds with a red heart emoji.
With her flawless makeup, Hanna adds a touch of perfume and heads downstairs, deciding to relax on the couch while waiting for Caleb. Their living area returned to normal the previous week when the new paint in the nursery dried, and Caleb moved the boxes containing the furniture and accessories for the baby upstairs to that room. However, they haven't started setting anything up yet, so the baby room isn't ready for the moment.
Lying on the couch, Hanna takes another look at the Instagram account of her brand, which has seen a surge in followers since the magazine publication, a trend that began a few months back, when celebrities who wore her dresses credited her on their posts and tagged the brand.
Half an hour passes before Hanna receives another text from Caleb, this time a voice message: "So sorry, babe. This is more complicated than I thought. I won't make it in time for dinner. We'll have to postpone our celebration for another day. I'm really sorry, believe me, I wouldn't cancel on you if it weren't a big deal. I'll be home late. Sorry again. Love you."
Hanna sends him a text: "It's okay, don't worry. I understand. Love you too."
Hanna sighs and briefly considers texting the girls to see if anyone is available to go out for dinner with her, but she knows that spontaneous plans in the middle of the week are rare now that her friends have busy schedules. Instead, she changes into more comfortable clothes and, after ordering dinner, removes her recently touched-up makeup.
/
It's almost 11 p.m., and Caleb is still at the office, but not in his usual spot. Instead, he's holed up in a small, dimly lit room. The only light comes from a couple of computer screens. The constant hum of the computers fills the air, reminding Caleb of the late hour and his extended stay. As he watches a loading bar sluggishly inching its way forward on one of the screens, barely reaching 5% completion, Caleb leans back in his chair. With a tired sigh, he switches on a small desk lamp and turns his attention to the magazine, eager to read the article about Hanna and her rising career.
A smile appears on his lips several times while reading, sometimes with pride, sometimes with amusement at a witty remark from Hanna, or maybe at something that sounds just like her in any casual conversation. The interview mostly talks about the origins of her brand, starting in her mother's basement before expanding to her first store in Rosewood. The tone is relaxed as it also discusses her brand's arrival in New York City and the challenges and rewards of its expansion, including the attention from celebrities. Then the interview shifts to more personal matters:
Interviewer: So, Hanna, you're sporting an adorable baby bump. Your future looks bright not only in the fashion world but also in motherhood!
Hanna: Oh, yes! It's a dream come true for my husband and me! It's something we've wanted for a while… but it was a bit scary for me, to be honest, so I waited until it felt right. Building our own family is very important to us, for some personal reasons I won't get into now, but it means a lot, and we're pretty excited about our baby girl's arrival.
Interviewer: How do you plan to balance motherhood with your career?
Hanna: That's a good one! – Hanna laughs. – My business was much calmer a few months back when I decided to get pregnant. But I don't regret it. I know it won't be easy, but I'll make it work. I've got the best partner by my side, really, literally the best one, so I'm positive I can juggle diapers, bottles, and coming up with amazing designs and fashion events.
Interviewer: And how do you envision yourself as a mom?
Hanna: Tough question… - Hanna chuckles. – I was a bit nervous about this interview, but I never thought the hardest question would be about this. I've been thinking a lot about what kind of mother I'd like to be, and I've read some articles… there are so many theories about good parenting, some contradict each other so much. I guess I'll just go with the flow, you know? I don't care much for strict routines. I just want a happy kid, my girl to feel loved and secure to do whatever she wants in life. So, I'm not sure how I'll be as a mother. I guess I'll find out when my baby is here.
Interviewer: To wrap up, can you tell us about your upcoming projects?
Hanna: Sure! My brand will be part of the big New York Fashion Week fall-winter show next month. We'll be showcasing some of our top designs for the upcoming season. I'm really excited about this opportunity, it's a major event in the fashion world. Also, I've been in touch with a stylist for another celebrity, looking at teaming up for the next Met Gala. We've agreed to start discussions once they announce next year's theme, but I can't share more details yet, it's still early days and nothing's confirmed. As for my New York store, we're considering relocating to a better spot, but... I've decided to hold off for a few months, at least until I adjust to being a mom, as we discussed before.
The article concludes with a paragraph from the fashion editor praising Hanna's designs, predicting a successful career for her. Caleb's proud smile remains as he finishes reading. However, his smile fades when he shifts his gaze to the computer screen to find the loading bar stuck at 44%, not even halfway through.
/
Caleb finally arrives home past midnight, greeted by Chocolate at the front door, he heads upstairs and enters the bedroom to find Hanna still awake. She's in her underwear, covers pushed to the end of the bed, half sitting against a pile of pillows, with only the bedside lamp illuminating the room.
Hanna warmly smiles at him as she sets her phone aside on the bedside table.
Caleb "I'm really sorry about missing our dinner, Han!" He apologizes again as he kicks off his shoes and flops down on the bed. "I had some issues with one of the software's servers." He explains, his exhaustion evident in his voice. He lies on his stomach and buries his face between Hanna's body and the mattress, wrapping his arm around her thighs, just below her baby bump.
Hanna "It's fine, baby. Don't worry." Hanna reassures him, placing her hand on his back and gently rubbing.
Caleb "I'm making sure it doesn't happen again, though." He says, lifting his head to look at her. "What are you doing still up?"
Hanna smiles. "Still too excited about the article to go to sleep. I keep receiving so many messages from everyone."
Caleb smiles back. "I just read the article at the office, Han." He says, sitting up beside her and unwrapping his arm from her body. "It's too hot in here. Why haven't you turned on the air conditioner?" He asks, removing his t-shirt.
Hanna "It's not working, and it's not the batteries of the remote. I've already checked them."
Caleb "Okay, I'll take a look at it tomorrow." He says, standing up to remove his jeans as well.
Hanna "So?" She takes a tube of cream from her bedside table. "What do you think about the article?" She asks, intrigued, while starting to apply some cream to her pregnant belly.
Caleb grins, tidily tossing his clothes into the laundry basket next to the bathroom door. "Wanna know what I think?" He playfully responds with another question while climbing back onto the bed.
Hanna stares at him expectantly.
Caleb "I think you're the best, in every sense." Sitting on the mattress facing her pregnant belly, with one knee folded and the other leg extended to the end of the bed, he takes the cream tube from her and squeezes some onto the palm of his hand. "I'm very proud of you." He adds, rubbing his palm on her baby bump too, helping her apply the cream. "I enjoyed every word in that article, you know? Your statements, the writer saying so many nice things, not only about your designs but also about how warm, fun, and charming you are." He quotes some of the adjectives used in the article. "But… my favorite part was definitely when you talked about us, about our family… the things you said, Han… I couldn't agree more with you." He says, his eyes fixed on hers as his hand keeps spreading the cream on her skin.
Hanna smiles softly. "I didn't know they were going to ask me personal questions. It took me by surprise, so… I guess my answers came straight from my heart. I'm glad you liked the article that much."
Caleb nods. "I liked what you said about how much building our own family means to us. We never talked about it, well, the reasons why, but… I just feel the same as you."
Hanna reaches out to cup his face. "Of course, It's important to us. This is our chance to make things right and get our own happy family." Her tone soft as she caresses his cheek with her thumb. "Because this is the only way we'll get to know what it feels like to be a part of one."
Caleb leans forward, connecting their lips into a very tender kiss. "I love you so much, Hanna."
Hanna smiles against his lips. "Love you too, baby." She is about to kiss him again, but Caleb pulls away.
Caleb "I'm not done with this yet." He says, taking the cream tube and squeezing out some more. "Missed a spot." He explains, tossing the tube aside.
Hanna looks at him, puzzled.
Caleb shoots her a mischievous smirk while sliding his hand under her panties, starting to spread the cream all over her intimate area.
Hanna chuckles. "You are such an idiot."
Caleb "The big idea just popped into my head, and I couldn't resist… Do you like it?" He asks, his tone low, smooth, and sexually suggestive, while still rubbing his hand against her.
Hanna "Very much, baby." She grabs his face with both hands and pulls him back to her mouth, she lets out a deep exhalation into his, giving him a clue of how much she enjoys what he's doing to her, before initiating another kiss.
As the passionate kiss continues, Caleb senses Hanna becoming increasingly responsive to his touch, and it's not just the cream anymore. She feels warm, soft, and wet under his touch, and that's just blowing his mind. At some point, she interrupts the kiss herself.
Hanna "Do you need some cream yourself too?" She asks, already breathing heavily as she reaches for the tube.
Caleb grins. "I'd love to, but… you know what I'd like more?" He asks, sliding his hand out of Hanna's underwear.
Hanna stares at him.
Caleb "Your mouth…" He whispers, leaning in again to softly bite her bottom lip. "It just feels so damn good around my cock…" He adds, now licking her lip.
Hanna smiles and moves to lie on her side, facing him. After kissing his lips once more, she lowers her body until she's at the right height.
Hanna "It seems like your buddy here could use some more space…" She says, rubbing his bulge with her hand through his boxers, moving it up and down.
Caleb "Uh huh… It could use a good blow too…"
Hanna laughs, already pulling down his underwear. "Like this, baby?" She asks, taking him into her mouth.
The foreplay continues for a few more minutes as Hanna keeps Caleb on cloud nine just by using her mouth. Then, they transition to their preferred position, the one that's been most comfortable for Hanna lately. Supporting herself with her forearms and knees, she rests her baby bump on a couple of pillows while Caleb takes charge of the action, adapting to the changes brought about by Hanna's growing belly.
But after a few minutes, Hanna stops abruptly.
Hanna "Babe…" She says, her voice barely audible. "Caleb!" She says a bit louder now.
Realizing she's not just moaning his name, Caleb halts his movements.
Hanna moves away from him, sitting up on the bed.
Caleb "Are you okay?" He asks, confused. "Did I hurt you?"
Hanna "No… I just need a moment."
Caleb nods, placing his hand on her shoulder. Taking a closer look at her, he notices her cheeks are burning red, and despite the normal heavy breathing due to their intimate moment, she appears unusually exhausted, even though he was doing most of the work.
Caleb "Are you alright?" He asks again.
Hanna "It's just too hot in here, and… I couldn't hold on in that position any longer… I need some air." She adds, starting to fan herself with one hand.
Caleb scans their bedroom and spots a copy of the fashion magazine where Hanna's article was published. Getting up, he grabs it and climbs back onto the bed, using it to fan Hanna.
Caleb "You aren't feeling dizzy or something, are you?"
Hanna shakes her head. "Just needed to stop for a moment. I'm okay."
After a couple of minutes, Hanna lies down on her side.
Hanna "Come here." She tells Caleb, tapping the mattress behind her.
Caleb leaves the magazine on the bedside table and lies down too, spooning her.
Caleb "Are you feeling better?" He asks, wrapping his arm around her body, below her belly, and pressing soft kisses to her neck.
Hanna "Uh huh… Wanna try from there?"
Caleb "It's okay, Han. We can just try other stuff, there's no nee-"
Hanna "Come on, baby." She says, shifting her back from his torso to allow him a better angle to enter her again. "I wanna try again like this."
Caleb "You sure?" He asks, already placing his hand on the inner thigh of her upper leg, lifting it a little.
Hanna "Yeah, let's finish what we started."
With her confirmation, Caleb reconnects their bodies.
/
Morning after.
Despite having gone to bed pretty late the previous night, Hanna wakes up even before her alarm goes off. The sweltering weather of that summer morning, coupled with the malfunctioning air conditioner, makes sleep impossible as she feels suffocated. She looks over at Caleb, who is fast asleep, lying comfortably on his stomach, a luxury Hanna hasn't been able to indulge in for months now. Sleeping with a pregnant belly is definitely not something she'll miss. After lingering in bed for a few more minutes, she finally gets up and heads for the bathroom to start her day.
When Hanna emerges from the bathroom after her shower a few minutes later, Caleb is also awake.
Caleb "Heading to a Pilates class?" He asks her from the bed.
Hanna "Nope… I quit last week. It was good for stretching my back, but… Things were getting a bit complicated with this little one growing in here." She explains, rubbing her belly through the fabric of her light robe while sitting on the bed. "I just woke up earlier because of this unbearable heat."
Caleb "I'll take a look at the air conditioner before leaving for the office."
Hanna nods.
Caleb "I have some news for you…"
Hanna stares at him expectantly.
Caleb "Toby texted me. Spencer has been in labor for a few hours now."
Hanna grins. "Oh! Really?" She says, excited. "So we are finally meeting little Liam!"
Caleb nods.
Hanna "And where's Finnie?"
Caleb "He's at home, with Spencer's mom. They didn't want to wake him up so early, so she came over to their house herself. I told Toby to let us know if they needed a hand with the little one, but he said Jenny, his sitter, was coming too, so they are covered."
Hanna "Okay, I'll stop by to see him later anyway." She says, standing up from the bed and heading for the closet.
Caleb "I'm sure he'll be happy to see you. It'll be a couple of weird days for him until Toby and Spencer come back home."
Hanna "Uh huh, poor baby… and they'll be coming back with a little intruder." She chuckles. "I just want to be there for him." She says while putting on her underwear.
Caleb smiles to himself at Hanna's kindness. "Listen… Tomorrow's my grandpa's birthday, and Toby and I were planning to pay a visit to him at the graveyard, but I guess Toby won't make it after all. Wanna come with me? Because then you say I never take you there with me…"
Hanna finishes pulling on a short and light summer dress before turning to him with a smile. "I'd love to."
/
It's the afternoon, and Hanna is outside in the backyard, enjoying the summer breeze, lounging on a chair in the shade. She decided to work from home today. With one leg bent up and her sketchbook resting against her pregnant belly, she designs a new dress.
On the neighboring lounger, also sheltered from the sun, lies Finn, peacefully napping, wrapped in a towel. Hanna has had him since noon when she texted Toby to ask if it was okay to pick him up for lunch. Knowing Finn would have a blast with Hanna and that his day would fly by, Toby gladly accepted her offer and canceled Finn's sitter for the day.
After enjoying some spaghetti for lunch, one of Finn's favorite meals, they splashed around in the pool, with Chocolate even joining in for a swim. Later, sensing Finn needed a rest, Hanna convinced him to take a break under the pretext that Chocolate needed a nap. Finn dozed off shortly after Hanna changed him into dry clothes. Not surprisingly, the dog decided to nap as well, relaxing under the warmth of the sun as his dense fur dries.
Hanna's phone buzzes beside her, and her face lights up with a huge smile as she picks it up. It's a text from Toby, a picture of his and Spencer's newborn baby boy, no words needed.
She quickly texts back: "OMG, Tob! He's so cute! Can't wait to meet him! Please, give Spence a big hug from me. Congratulations! Love you all so much."
Toby responds a few minutes later: "Thanks, Han! We love you too. How's our other baby doing over there?"
Hanna snaps a picture of the sleeping little boy and sends it to Toby with another message: "Exhausted after the swim."
Toby: "We miss him already… Wanna come over and bring him to meet his brother later? Spencer needs rest now, but I'll let you know when she wakes."
Hanna: "OMG, sure! I'm so excited! I'll tell Caleb, and we'll be there when you say."
Toby: "Great! Thanks, Han! Really appreciate you being there for Finnie."
Hanna: "My pleasure. Love him to bits."
/
Hanna "Here we are, Finnie!" She glances at Finn over her shoulder, who's buckled up in the backseat of Caleb's car. "Are you excited to see mommy and daddy?"
Finn nods.
Caleb "And Liam!" He adds from the driver's seat as he maneuvers to park the car.
Hanna "Hey, I'm trying to make this easy for him." She whispers to Caleb. "Let's not make a big deal out of it."
Caleb "Oh, sorry." He whispers back.
Hanna "Your mom and dad want to see you too, you know? They miss you already, and they'd like to introduce you to your little brother. Pretty cool, huh?"
Hanna stares at Finn, he looks tiny in the backseat, his chubby face showing a slightly confused expression. She shoots him a reassuring smile.
Caleb turns off the engine, and he and Hanna get out of the car. Caleb then opens the rear door and unbuckles Finn.
Caleb "Let's go, buddy." He says, lifting Finn into his arms.
They make their way into the clinic. Holding Finn with one arm, Caleb reaches for Hanna's hand with the other.
Caleb "Text Toby and let him know we're here."
Hanna "I already did. We need to go to the second floor, and he'll be waiting for us by the elevator." She explains.
As the elevator doors open on the second floor, they meet Toby, his face beaming with joy.
Toby "Hey there, my little buddy!" He greets his son, taking him from Caleb's arms as soon as they step out of the elevator.
Finn's face lights up with a happy smile, and he wraps his little arms around Toby's neck, feeling at home in his dad's embrace.
Caleb "Congratulations, bud!" He grins, giving Toby a brief hug.
Hanna "Congrats, daddy!" She congratulates Toby with a wide smile, also hugging him after Caleb.
Toby "Let's go, guys, this way." He says, leading them to Spencer's room.
Once they reach it, Hanna and Caleb decide to wait outside, giving Spencer and Toby some privacy to introduce their boys and share their intimate family moment.
Hanna "Did you find someone to fix our air conditioner?" She asks Caleb as they take seats in the hallway, since he wasn't able to fix it himself that morning.
Caleb "Yeah, one of the guys from Toby's team said he could take a look at it tomorrow."
Hanna "Ugh, tomorrow?" She sighs. "I'll sleep on the couch tonight."
Caleb "I'm pretty sure there's a fan in the attic. I'll bring it down to the bedroom for you... How was your day?" He asks, taking her hand and tracing both her engagement and wedding rings with his thumb.
Hanna "It was good, I didn't get much work done with Finnie, though. But we had a great time. Yours?"
Caleb "It was okay, I guess. At least no servers went down today…" He sighs.
Hanna plants a tender kiss on his cheek.
Caleb "So, what day are we going to New York next week?"
Hanna grins. "Oh, you're coming with me again?"
After going to New York with her for the magazine photoshoot a couple of weeks ago, Caleb hasn't gone back to the city with Hanna again, even though she has been staying there for two days each time in the last couple of weeks.
Caleb nods. "I don't want you going alone anymore, Han. You're only a couple of weeks away from your eighth month. So, yeah, I'll drive you next week, and every other time you need to go there from now on."
Hanna "That's very kind of you, baby, but... with the fashion show coming up, I might need to stay longer. Not to mention all the things I still need to sort out before Hallie arrives."
Caleb "That's not a problem. Just let me know which days so I can arrange my schedule."
Hanna "How about from Monday to Wednesday?" She suggests, leaning against his side, resting her head on his shoulder.
Caleb "Starting right from Monday, Han? I have this thing…"
Hanna "Leo arranged a meeting for us with a new modeling agency on Monday afternoon, around 3 p.m., and I really want to be there. They're providing models for the fashion show. Don't worry, I can drive there. You can join me on Tuesday if you want."
Caleb "No, it's fine. Monday it is. How about we leave at noon?"
Hanna "Yeah, noon works. Thank you." She hugs his arm and closes her eyes, resting for a moment.
/
Caleb "Han, baby..." He whispers softly, gently stroking Hanna's hair.
Hanna opens her eyes, momentarily disoriented.
Caleb chuckles at her confusion. "Hey, remember where we are?"
Hanna blinks. "Oh, right… at the clinic."
Caleb grins.
Hanna sits up, scanning the room.
Caleb "Toby just texted. We can head in and meet little Liam now."
Hanna's face lights up. "Yes, let's go."
After a quick stop by the restrooms to wash their hands, Hanna and Caleb finally make their way into Spencer's room.
Hanna "Oh my goodness!" She says excitedly, spotting Finn sitting on Spencer's lap as she helps him hold his little brother.
Spencer smiles at her.
Hanna "You are all so cute!" She adds as she and Caleb approach the bed, taking in the sight of the newborn in Finn's arms.
Caleb "Look at you, big bro!" He warmly says to Finn.
Finn grins proudly.
Hanna "Don't worry, we just washed our hands, Spence." She informs her friend before reaching out to touch Liam's tiny hand. "He's absolutely precious, Spencer! Congratulations!"
Spencer leans in for a hug, mindful of the boys. "Thank you, Han. And thank you for watching Finn today."
Hanna returns the hug. "Of course, Spence. We had a blast, didn't we, Finn?"
Finn nods enthusiastically. "Chocwit splashes!"
Hanna laughs. "That's right! Chocolate made quite the splash in the pool."
Caleb steps forward, his gaze shifting between Spencer and the newborn. "Congratulations, guys. You've got two incredible boys." With a gentle smile, he extends his hand to caress the baby's tiny fingers. Then, he shoots Toby a smile as well, who's standing at the other side of Spencer's bed.
Toby simply responds with a nod, his proud smile evident.
Spencer "Thank you, Caleb!" She gazes back at Hanna. "Oh, congrats to you too, by the way, Han! I read that amazing article about you!" She gestures toward a table where there's a copy of the fashion magazine. "I'm so happy for you!"
Hanna "Thanks, Spence!" She says, her eyes still focused on the peacefully asleep baby. "Well, we'll get going now, we don't want to disturb."
Caleb "Want Finnie to come with us?" He offers.
Spencer "No, it's fine. I want him to stay a little longer with us. My mom is coming back here later, and she offered to keep him for the night, so we're good."
Hanna "Okay, just let us know if you need us to get you something from your place, or anything."
Spencer nods. "I will. Thanks, guys!"
Hanna smiles at her again.
After saying goodbye to the radiant, happy family, Hanna and Caleb exit the room and head into the hallway.
Caleb "I can't help but think it will be us in just a bit over a month, Han…" He says, reaching for her hand as they walk away.
Hanna smiles and bites her bottom lip. "Yeah, don't even mention it. It makes me a little nervous…"
Caleb chuckles. "Why? It'll be awesome!"
Hanna "Yeah, because you're not the one giving birth!" She laughs. "Won't be that awesome for me when I have a baby coming out right through my-"
Caleb "I just meant it'll be awesome to finally meet our girl." He interrupts her, smiling.
Hanna "I know."
They stop in front of the elevator, and Caleb presses the button to call it.
Hanna "I was just teasing you." She kisses his cheek, letting go of his hand and hugging him from the side as they wait. "But it does make me anxious thinking about it, though… it's a big deal."
Caleb nods. "Everything will be just fine, baby." He reassures her, embracing her shoulders as well.
/
Back at home, Hanna is lying on the couch, half sitting, with her back propped against a bunch of cushions while working on a new design. Her sketchbook is placed against her baby bump, and various pencils are scattered on the coffee table, which she has pulled closer to the couch for easy reach.
Caleb "I just checked the fridge, and we have some ingredients for a chicken casserole. Is that okay with you?" He asks, approaching the couch.
Hanna "Yeah... are you starting dinner now? It's still early, isn't it?"
Caleb "Nope, I was just checking if I needed to go to the store. But we're covered." He says, joining her on the couch.
He slides his body between her legs and grabs another cushion, placing it on one of Hanna's thighs and resting his head on it.
Caleb "Is it okay if I spend some time with Hallie here while you work?" He asks, gently pushing up her short and loose dress, uncovering her pregnant belly.
Hanna smiles, although she doesn't take her eyes off her sketch. "Sure... as long as you behave yourself and keep your hands only on my belly. I really need to focus."
Caleb "Yeah, don't worry." He says, starting to rub her belly with one hand and placing a tender kiss on it. "I won't be initiating anything from now on. It's entirely up to you if you want to... get things started…"
Hanna moves her sketchbook aside so she can look at him now.
Caleb, feeling her eyes on him, decides to explain himself. "I know you didn't enjoy sex that much last night, baby. I'm not clueless." He says, still brushing his fingers on the side of her belly. He closes his eyes and rests his forehead against it. "It's okay with me if you want to stop having sex for now. There are other things we can still do, though. But only if you're in the mood. No pressure. Really, this isn't about me. I just want you to feel good."
Hanna "Thanks for bringing that up." She reaches down and starts stroking his hair. "Things are actually starting to get a bit... uncomfortable for me." She admits.
Caleb "Uh huh, I understand, Han. So, really, no pressure."
Hanna nods and focuses back on her design.
/
The next day.
It's Friday morning and Hanna and Caleb park their cars near the entrance to the graveyard. They've decided to come in separate cars in order to go on with their different work schedules after visiting the place.
Hanna picks up the bouquet of delicate white roses she got on her way there from the passenger seat before stepping out of the car. As she reaches the entrance, Caleb is already waiting for her.
Hanna "Got grandpa Henry some flowers." She says, meeting him.
Caleb "They're beautiful." He tells her with a grateful smile, taking her free hand.
Hanna "I just stopped by at a florist's. I don't like the ones they sell here much." She comments as they start walking.
Caleb "Uh huh…"
Hanna "Spencer texted me. She said they would release her and Liam this afternoon."
Caleb "They must be excited to finally go back home with the baby."
Hanna "Yeah, and Finnie. He'll be waiting for them at home with his sitter. I would pick him up again, but I really need to get some work done today. I can't afford to take another afternoon off to be with him."
Caleb "It's okay, Han. You were there for him yesterday, and he loves Jenny anyway. He will be fine."
Hanna nods.
Caleb "Any plans with the girls for tonight? I was just thinking we could go out for dinner. I mean, we still have that celebration for the magazine article pending…"
Hanna smiles. "I'm up for anything tonight, but let's catch up later, okay? Lately, I've been pretty wiped out by the end of the day, so I might be leaning more towards takeout and a chill night at home."
Caleb smiles back. "Okay, just let me know later."
They finally reach Caleb's grandfather's grave.
Hanna "Hi, Henry! How are you doing?" She says, smiling as they stand before the grave. "We just stopped by to wish you a happy birthday!"
Caleb chuckles beside her.
Hanna looks at him. "What's so funny?"
Caleb "Nothing." He says, still amused. "It's just that… the man's dead, Han. I just found it funny the way you asked him how he is and wished him a happy birthday."
Hanna "Yeah, but we are here precisely to do that, aren't we?" She asks, confused.
Caleb "Yeah, you are right. I'm sorry."
Hanna "What do you and Toby do when you come here if you don't even talk to your grandpa?"
Caleb shrugs. "We come here and… just hang out for a little while… we talk about my grandpa or just stay in silence and then we leave. I've tried to talk to him one time but… I just feel a bit stupid talking to a gravestone…"
Hanna nods understanding. "Well, I'll just stay quiet then."
Caleb "No, it's okay." He says, releasing her hand and resting his arm over her shoulders instead. "Let's try your way today… Happy birthday, grandpa! Well, I'm sure all your days are happy wherever you are."
Hanna shoots Caleb a kind smile. Then she turns her gaze back to the grave, and they just stay in calm silence for a while. It's still early, but the summer sun is already shining through the trees, and the birds are singing. Hanna takes a look around, and there they are, some other relatives of Caleb's. Among them, right beside Caleb's grandfather's grave is his grandmother's, and the following one is their daughter's, Caleb's mother's. Claudia, that's her name, and that's everything she knows about the woman. As far as she knows, Caleb doesn't know much about her either. Looking down at her baby bump, Hanna can't help feeling sorry for that woman, as the circumstances and the reasons why she ended up giving Caleb up for adoption still remain a mystery.
Hanna "Brought some flowers for you, Henry." She says, breaking the silence as she moves away from Caleb's embrace. "Hope you don't mind sharing them, though." She adds, taking a couple of roses from the bouquet. After placing the bouquet against his headstone, she sets the other two roses on the graves of Caleb's grandma and mom.
Caleb "What are you doing?" He asks, frowning.
Hanna looks at him immediately, her expression showing confusion at Caleb's frown. "I just thought it would be nice to leave your mom a flower too, and well, your grandm-"
Caleb "Don't." He interrupts, taking the flowers and placing them on his grandfather's grave along with the rest. "That's not my mother."
Hanna "Yes, she is, babe. We don't know what happened, and we may never know. But she carried you for nine months, and-"
Caleb "Ugh, just leave it, okay?" He cuts her off, turning away with frustration evident. "I should have waited for Toby and come with him another day."
Hanna nods. "Okay, I'll just leave then." She softly says, her gaze fixed on him, his blank stare still turned away from her.
Caleb "Yes, please do." He says, turning back to her. "If you don't know how to mind your own business about this, then maybe you should just leave."
Hanna can't hold his gaze and turns away, starting to walk.
/
By the time Hanna arrives at her store and heads upstairs to her workshop, she's still fighting back tears.
Hanna "Hi, guys!" She greets Lisa and Anna, her voice lacking its usual cheerfulness.
They return her greeting from their workstations. Anna is focused on one of the sewing machines, while Lisa is meticulously hand-sewing buttons onto a dress.
Hanna manages to hold back her tears for a few minutes as she turns on her laptop and checks her emails. But when Hallie starts moving in her belly, her emotions resurface, and tears well up in her eyes once more.
Hanna "Hi, little one! Mommy's fine. Don't worry." She whispers, as a single tear finally rolls down her cheek.
Rubbing her baby bump with one hand, Hanna tries to refocus on her work.
Anna approaches her with a dress she just finished. Although Hanna is no longer responsible for checking the finished dresses before they go on sale, since that's a task she's delegated to Lisa, Anna, and also Lisa herself, still seek her approval sometimes, especially when they're particularly proud of their work.
Anna "Check this one out, Han! It turned out amazing!" She says, holding the dress up on a hanger.
Hanna turns to her. "Wow, Annie! It looks gorgeous!" She says, forcing a smile despite her glassy eyes.
Anna "Are you okay, Han?"
Hanna nods. "Yeah." She forces another slight smile. "It's nothing, just my hormones again." She lies, wiping her eyes before another tear falls. "Great job with this one!" She adds, running her hand over the delicate fabric.
Lisa "Why don't you work from home today, Han? Is there anything you need to take care of here? I could help…" She offers.
Hanna "Thanks, Lis! I'm okay. I'll have to work from home this afternoon anyway. Our air conditioner broke, and Caleb's arranged for someone to come over today. But I'm okay, don't worry."
Anna "What are you planning to wear for the fashion show in New York, Han? Have you decided on anything yet?" She asks, steering the conversation elsewhere as she hangs the dress on a rack.
Hanna "I'm not sure yet… Aria offered me the dress she wore at Spencer's wedding while she was pregnant, but I'm not sure I'll fit in it. I mean, Aria's so petite, and my boobs keep growing bigger." She chuckles. "My baby bump won't be a problem, but my chest might."
Lisa "There are some dresses from your fall-winter collection that we could easily adapt to your belly if you'd like to wear one of your own designs…" She suggests.
Hanna "Oh, thanks, Lis! But I don't want to ruin one of those amazing dresses by adjusting it to my bump. I'll figure something out." She turns back to focus on her laptop again.
/
That afternoon, actually, more like the evening.
The electrician Caleb sent over to fix the air conditioner has just left after getting it back working in less than an hour. Despite still feeling down, Hanna decides to take advantage of the beautiful day and the fact that summer will be over in only a few weeks. She opts to relax for a while in the pool before getting back to work on her designs.
She's in the bedroom, changing into her bikini, when her phone buzzes on the bed. Picking it up, she sees it's a text from Caleb. No words, just a red heart emoji. Smiling a little, Hanna sends one back to him. She's not mad at him at all. She can't be, not when she knows his background, and even less so with all the overwhelming love she feels for him.
/
Around an hour later, Caleb finally arrives home from work. After searching the house for Hanna and not finding her inside, knowing for sure she's home, since her car is in the driveway, he glances out the bedroom window to the backyard, spotting her in the pool. She's standing in the middle, leaning on an inflatable pool mattress, her arms bent and her head resting on them.
Caleb changes into the swim trunks that Hanna gave him on his birthday and heads downstairs to the backyard.
Caleb "Hey, buddy!" He greets Chocolate, running his hands over the dog's wet fur.
Hanna lifts her head upon hearing his voice.
Caleb "Hey…" He says, noticing her gaze.
Hanna "Hey." She greets back, offering a slight half-smile.
Caleb makes his way along the pool, heading for the shallow end. Slowly, he enters the pool using the steps. The warm water feels amazing on his skin as he descends until it reaches his chest, nearing Hanna.
Hanna, following his movements, lets go of the pool mattress and approaches him, closing the distance.
Caleb "So you aren't mad at me anymore?" He asks, wrapping his arms around Hanna as she reaches him.
Hanna "Are you kidding? Why would I be mad at you?" She responds with questions, placing her palms on his shoulders.
Caleb "For being such a jerk, maybe? I'm really sorry, Han."
Hanna shakes her head. "You have nothing to apologize for, baby. It was me, I completely overstepped. I'm sorry, I should have respected your space and your way of doing things while being there. It was your thing after all, I was supposed to just be there for you. I'm sorry."
Caleb "Please, stop apologizing to me, baby." He says, shifting his body to hold her from the side so her baby bump isn't an obstacle between them. Keeping her pressed to his front, he rests his forehead on her temple. "I only feel more ashamed of the way I spoke to you." He adds, kissing her cheek.
Hanna's arm wraps around his neck and her other hand goes straight to caress his cheek. "It wasn't that bad, don't worry. I just left because I didn't know what to do or how to react. I mean… you almost never get mad at me." She smiles. "It was so weird… but really, don't worry. I understand where you came from, and again, I overstepped."
Caleb "Yeah, I felt terrible watching leave, but… I couldn't just go after you right away, I was feeling too… frustrated to do so."
Hanna nods. "I understand." She turns her face to the side and brushes her lips against his. "How about we kiss and make up? Literally…" She suggests.
Caleb sighs against her lips. "Love you to my bones, Han."
Hanna smiles. "Love you to the baby in my belly."
Overwhelmed by love, Caleb initiates a tender kiss. He slowly steps back, gently pulling Hanna along with him, never breaking the kiss, until they reach the steps of the pool. Pulling away from Hanna's mouth, he sits down on one of the steps, keeping most of his body submerged in the warm water and leaving his legs open so that Hanna can sit on the step below.
Caleb "You've been using the pool a lot in the last few days…" He comments as Hanna settles between his legs, her side facing him.
Hanna "Uh huh… it feels nice. My belly doesn't weigh that much in the water. It's like taking a break." She explains, resting her elbow on his knee before tilting her head up and pressing another kiss to Caleb's lips.
Caleb takes his hand to her face and holds her there, prolonging the kiss. Hanna is more than happy to turn her initial simple peck into a passionate kiss.
When they pull away, Hanna shifts and rests her back against his torso and Caleb's arms wrap around her shoulders.
Hanna "Can I… explain to you what happened to me at the graveyard today? Because I really didn't mean to be invasive, I just…" She sighs, tilting her head to the side, resting it on one of his arms.
Caleb "You just?" He asks, encouraging her to continue.
Hanna "I had this... sort of connection or..." She pauses, realizing that what she's about to say might touch a sore spot, and she doesn't want to upset Caleb again. "Listen, I don't really want to overstep again, okay? You know I've always respected your decision to… leave your past in the past and move on. So I'll just tell you how I feel, and if you want me to drop the subject, just say so. But please, don't get mad at me again."
Caleb "I won't. I promise… just tell me." He leans in, resting his cheek against her head.
Hanna "Well… going through this pregnancy changed my perspective on a lot of things, you know? I realized how hard it actually is to go through it. So many changes, so many feelings and emotions, too much to take in, and… the huge bond I already have with Hallie. I know you already feel connected to her as well, but… imagine having her right inside of you. It's so crazy. She's right there with me the whole time, everywhere I go, she's there with me… and when she moves… god, she's really in there." She explains as her palm rests on her baby bump. "Anyway, this morning at the graveyard, looking at Claudia's grave…" She says, choosing to simply call the woman by her name to avoid making Caleb uncomfortable. "We don't know what really happened, baby. We don't know under what circumstances, or the reasons why she didn't keep you. But we do know one thing for sure, she had you. She carried you for nine months. And believe me, that's a lot. So for that, I felt really thankful to her today, thinking that if she had just opted for an easier way out, or not easy, because I'm sure having an abortion is anything but easy, let's just say that if her choice was different, I wouldn't have you now, or Hallie. So, that's why I felt the need to leave a rose for her too." Hanna's voice cracks now, overwhelmed by emotions, and her eyes are full of tears wanting to escape. "There's no way she carried you for nine freaking months and didn't have feelings for you, Caleb. Your grandfather was a good man, and if he loved your grandmother she must have been a good person too, and so had to be Claudia. I feel for her, going through the whole pregnancy, giving birth, dealing with all the emotions and physical challenges, and then having to let you go." She continues, as her tears start streaming down her cheeks. "It just breaks my heart. I can't help but think she felt as connected to you as I feel to Hallie." She straightens and tries to wipe her tears, but it's useless because they keep rolling down and her hands are wet with the pool water anyway.
Caleb remains silent, so Hanna shifts to her side again and looks at him. His expression is serious, but at least he doesn't seem upset, which relieves her. He looks somehow thoughtful, like if he were processing everything that she just told him.
Hanna stays quiet for a while too, as she takes some deep breaths, trying to recompose.
Hanna "I'm not saying you should forgive Claudia and start leaving her flowers too." She breaks the silence softly, her voice much calmer now, while cupping his face and running her thumb along his jawline.
Caleb makes eye contact with her.
Hanna "I'm just saying that maybe we shouldn't just assume the worst, that she just chose to abandon you. Let's just simply stick to the facts, to what we do know. She carried you and she gave birth to you, and that's all. And I'm not just saying this to defend her, or because of the connection I felt to her today. I just say this for you, because even though you never speak about it, I know it hurts you. So don't just assume this family didn't want you, your grandpa did. And you don't know the rest of the story and you won't unless you decide to find out more."
Caleb "You think I should? Find out more?" He asks softly.
Hanna shakes her head. "That's up to you. I'm just saying that assuming the worst without knowing only hurts you. It's okay if you don't want to learn more about your past. It's your decision, and I've always respected it."
Caleb nods.
Hanna smiles slightly now. "Anyway, I have a feeling that you should investigate a bit more, if you don't mind me saying so." She confesses.
Caleb smiles back.
Hanna "I mean, nothing can be worse than assuming that they just abandoned you and leaving it there. Besides… it's not only about your family anymore…" She adds.
Caleb looks at her confused.
Hanna "They are Hallie's family too, baby. She'll be growing up in the same house as they lived. She'll probably make questions about her grandparents someday. But anyway, I'm okay with whatever you decide to tell her."
Caleb nods again, understanding her point.
Hanna "Let's get out of the pool. My fingers can't handle any more wrinkles." She says, standing up, deciding to finish their deep conversation, as she has already told Caleb everything she needed to say, and she doesn't want to push it either. "Thanks for listening to me." She adds as she starts stepping out of the pool.
Caleb stands up too. "Thanks for being so understanding." He says as he follows her.
Hanna shoots him another smile. "I guess that's the result of so many hours of therapy in the last couple of years." She's about to take her towel, but Caleb stops her.
Caleb "Wait…" He says, checking her out from head to toe. She looks stunning in that tiny black bikini of hers.
Hanna "What?" She asks, puzzled.
Caleb "Why don't you sit over the edge of the pool, and I'll take some pics of you?" He suggests, approaching her. "You look gorgeous." He adds, placing his hands on her hips. "And it would be nice to have some pics of you with the baby bump. You won't have it for too much longer." He moves his hands to cup her belly as he leans in for a quick kiss.
Hanna smiles, pulling away from his lips. "Okay, but hurry up because I'm getting cold."
Caleb "Sure! I'll just go get my phone. I think I left it in the kitchen." He says, walking away.
Hanna "Take mine. It's on the lounger over there." She tells him while going to sit over the edge of the pool as he just requested.
Caleb takes Hanna's phone and goes to sit down over the opposite edge of the pool, in front of Hanna.
Caleb "Passcode?"
Hanna "Same as always, baby."
Caleb rolls his eyes, unlocking her phone. "You've had the same passcode for years, Han. That's not safe."
Hanna "It's the only one I'll remember. You can change it to our wedding date if you want. I'll remember that for sure."
Caleb shoots her a smile from across the pool. "That's very sweet, babe. But… That's even less safe. Let's just keep our first kiss date, at least that's not registered anywhere." He says before snapping the first pic.
Hanna "Hey! I wasn't even ready yet!" She chuckles.
Caleb "Oh, right, I forgot that posing for photoshoots is your thing now." He teases.
Hanna "You are such an idiot!" She says between laughs.
Caleb "But I'm getting the best pics." He smirks.
Hanna smiles again and places her hands on her baby bump, posing for another pic. Caleb takes several beautiful photos of her under the summer evening sunlight. Then, at Hanna's request, he joins her, and they snap the cutest selfies together, always between laughs and teasing.
Once they are done, feeling cold already, Hanna takes her towel and wraps herself in it. Turning to look at Caleb, she realizes he hasn't grabbed a towel for himself, so she approaches and wraps her arms around his neck, enveloping him in her own, along with her.
Caleb leans in to start another kiss as his arms wrap around her too. "So, we aren't going out for dinner tonight?" He asks, breaking the kiss for a moment.
Hanna "I'm more in the mood for a cozy night in…" She smiles before kissing his lips again. "I'll go take a shower, and let's order some pizza."
Caleb nods. "Sounds perfect…" He pecks her lips. "Besides, I have to turn in early anyway." He adds, staring into her eyes.
Hanna "What for?" She asks, intrigued. "Any plans for tomorrow?"
Caleb "Gotta start setting up Hallie's furniture in the morning."
Hanna grins, loving the idea of it.
/
Later that night.
Hanna and Caleb are lying on their bed, above the covers as it's still a warm night. The lights are out, and the TV is on with a movie that only Caleb is watching, as Hanna has been peacefully asleep cuddling against the side of his body for at least the last half hour. Her cheek is pressed against his chest, and the side of her baby bump is nestled against Caleb's hip. Caleb's palm is lovingly resting on Hanna's belly, while his other arm is wrapped around her shoulders.
Caleb's facial expression is serious as he's very focused on the thriller movie that Hanna chose herself, claiming she would stay awake till the end of it this time, which obviously, as Caleb knew, didn't happen.
A slight movement under his palm is enough to turn Caleb's focused frown into a smile in just a second, and to make him lose his concentration right away. Taking his eyes off the screen, he shifts his gaze to Hanna's bump.
Caleb "Hey there, little girl." He whispers, trying not to disturb Hanna's sleep, because he knows better than to wake her up. "How are you doing in there? It must be really nice and warm…" He adds, rubbing his hand against what he assumes is a kick. "I'm sorry to break it to you, but you'll have to come out in a few weeks… Daddy wants to meet you so bad, baby girl…" He keeps talking in a low voice. "But don't worry, I'll make sure it's always nice and warm for you out here too. I promise."
Caleb can't help going over again all those things Hanna said to him earlier that day. He didn't express his thoughts about them at the moment, but he did listen to her very attentively, and her words did open a different perspective for him, another way of seeing things. Hanna's pregnancy has been a big experience for him too, of course on a different level than for her, but he's been there by her side witnessing both the beautiful things and the not-so-nice ones she's going through. And he's experienced his own emotions as well, as he never thought he would love his unborn daughter so much before even meeting her. And that again, gets him thinking about what Hanna said about Claudia having somehow a connection to him too.
Caleb "I love you, little one." He says, pressing his hand harder against Hanna's skin. The only reason why he doesn't kiss the bump is that Hanna is deeply asleep on his chest. "I love you too." He addresses Hanna now, pressing a tender kiss on her forehead. "Really hope Hallie gets your way of seeing the world. It's brighter than mine."