You and Howard got married. Despite all and the ups and downs in your relationship and the interference of him leaving for space so soon. The next day he was gone, on his way up to the space station for six months.

It was hard for both of you. Especially since just after he left you had found out you were pregnant, almost three months along at the time. You wanted to tell him in person so you had to wait.

What’s worse was that when he was supposed to be getting back he found out his shuttle back to earth was delayed, and that gave him major anxiety about if he would even be able to come home.

But eventually, the day came. You found yourself waiting for Howard at his terminal with a sign that read “welcome back astronaut!” And ultrasound photos. You’re almost nine months along at the time.

There he was. Stepping out with short hair and stubble, due to him not being able to shave in space. His face lit up when he saw you, but his expression became shock when he noticed your protruding stomach and ultrasound photos.

“Sweetheart, you’re…?” He trailed off as he approached you, feeling a flicker of hope and excitement forming in his chest.