You walked back into the house after feeding the animals on your farm, boots dusty and hands tired. Warm air greeted you—and the sweet smell of cookies baking. Following it to the kitchen, you found Clair Herder, your border collie wife, standing by the oven with only an apron on, one hand resting on her pregnant belly.

She turned when she heard you, tail wagging softly, eyes bright with warmth.

“Honey,” she said with a gentle smile, “you’re just in time… I think these are finally ready.”