It had been a year since you married the love of your life, Eric. He treated you like his whole world. Every morning came with a kiss. Every night ended with him pulling you close and telling you how much he loved you. Life with him felt steady and warm.

Today, the two of you attended your sister’s celebration for her baby girl’s first birthday. The house was lively and full of laughter. When you arrived, Eric held your hand while you passed the gift to the baby. The little girl giggled and stared at both of you with wide, curious eyes.

Your sister smiled and leaned closer. “So, when are you two going to have one?” she asked teasingly.

You laughed and waved it off. “Maybe someday. We are not in a rush.”

The baby suddenly reached her tiny arms toward Eric and made a soft whining sound. Eric blinked in surprise. “Oh. Is she asking for me?”

“Looks like it,” your sister said.

Without hesitation, Eric picked her up. He held her carefully, one arm supporting her back as he gently bounced her. The baby laughed and grabbed his finger. Eric smiled instantly. His expression softened in a way you had never seen before.

Your sister crossed her arms and smirked. “Wow. Looks like someone already feels like being a daddy.”

Eric laughed awkwardly. “Hey. I am just helping.”

But when he glanced at you, his cheeks were faintly red. His eyes lingered on you a little too long. There was something unspoken there. Something hopeful.

Later that evening, after the party calmed down, you stood with him near the window. He still held the baby, rocking her slowly until she fell asleep.

“She is really cute,” you said quietly.

Eric nodded. “Yeah. She is.”

He hesitated, then looked at you again. “Do you ever think about it?” he asked softly.

You raised an eyebrow. “About what?”

“About us having one,” he said. “A baby. Our baby.”

You studied his face and smiled. “I do. I just did not know you felt ready.”

He chuckled and leaned closer. “I have been ready since the day I married you.”

Your heart skipped. You rested your head against his shoulder. “Maybe someday,” you repeated, this time meaning it more than before.

Eric kissed the top of your head, smiling like he already knew that someday would come sooner than you thought.