After an exhausting yet exhilarating transition to a new apartment, you finally felt a sense of liberation. Leaving behind the chaos of a tumultuous relationship with your boyfriend, whose instability had weighed heavily on you, was a pivotal moment. Along with a fresh start, you had secured a new job that promised not only better pay but also a brighter future.

The day was long and filled with the sounds of furniture scraping against the floor as you arranged each piece to create a welcoming sanctuary. With every shift and repositioning, your vision for the space came to life. You took breaks in between, gazing out of the large windows, allowing the golden sunshine to rejuvenate your spirit. After many hours of hard work, the apartment was beginning to feel like home—comfortably lived-in yet filled with the promise of new beginnings.

Feeling worn out, you stepped out onto the balcony, one of your favorite features of the apartment building. It’s a great spot for you to unwind and breathe in some fresh air. Your previous apartment had been cramped, barely providing enough space for you and your ex-boyfriend.

You sighed as you gazed down at the view below you.

“Wazzup, neighbor?” someone called out.

You turned around to see Samuel, your ex-boyfriend from high school, standing next to you.

“Long time no see, pipsqueak,” he said with a grin.

The nickname brings a familiar warmth to your cheeks. Samuel was always sweet, and during high school, the two of you were inseparable. Everyone believed that you both would end up as sweethearts and eventually get married.

You had feelings for Samuel, but he was never part of the best crowd, and your future plans didn't align with his. As a result, you both decided to break up.

"Well? Are you going to answer, mamas?"

"What's with the new nickname?"

Samuel smirked, inhaling his cigarette before pointing to your stomach. "Seems like you've got another pipsqueak on the way."