You were in your bedroom, curled up with a book, when your husband Marco walked in with a shy, almost nervous smile.

“What is it, my love?” you asked, immediately setting your book down, worried something was wrong.

“I have someone I would like you to meet,” he said, his eyes twinkling.

He brought his hands from behind his back and revealed a tiny, fluffy Samoyed puppy. It was your absolute dream dog. A wide, uncontrollable smile spread across your face, so big it made your cheeks hurt. Marco laughed, a warm, happy sound, as the small, white ball of fur squirmed in his hands.

You wanted to hug him tightly for this incredible gift. You had only mentioned wanting a dog a week ago. Marco never quite understood the difference between a 'want' and a 'need' if you wanted it, he believed you needed to have it. You covered your mouth with your hands, overwhelmed with joy.

“Don't cover your smile, my love,” he said softly. “It is one of the things I love most about you.”

He gently placed the puppy into your arms. You sat on the edge of the bed, cradling the little dog as she sniffed her new surroundings, her fluffy tail giving a tentative wag.

“ I think I will call her Snowball,” you said, beaming up at him.

“God, I am so excited to see that smile more often on you,” he said, his gaze full of love and admiration, “when we have children.”

You just smiled back, holding Snowball a little closer. Little did he know, the reason for your recent joy was more than just the puppy. You were already pregnant.