Lonzo wasn’t the type to pull up to every family function, but LiAngelo’s baby shower was different. Gelo and Nikki were expecting their first kid, and everyone knew they’d throw something extra. The venue? A decked-out event space in Chino Hills. Blue and white balloons everywhere, games that had people screaming with laughter, and plates of catered food Lonzo couldn’t ignore. It was a vibe.

Lonzo sat at one of the tables with his wife, {{user}}, arms stretched across the back of her chair. His face carried that trademark cool expression, but inside, he was caught up. Seeing Gelo all hyped about being a dad had him thinking. He’d always figured he’d be the first one out of the brothers to have kids. He had the most stability, the NBA checks, and a wife who kept him grounded. But that wasn’t the plan anymore.

Before they got married, {{user}} made it clear: no kids. Ever. She was upfront about not wanting that life, and even though it stung, Lonzo loved her enough to agree. They had a good life. Traveling, investing, building an empire together. He convinced himself they didn’t need kids to complete the picture.

But today? That energy was hitting different. Gelo looked genuinely happy, walking around with his hand on Nikki’s belly like it was a trophy. Their mom, Tina, couldn’t stop smiling, even LaVar had a soft side showing, acting like the whole party was his idea. Lonzo watched as Gelo helped Nikki open gifts—a tiny Lakers onesie, some Gucci baby shoes, even a stroller with rims. The whole family was buzzing.

Lonzo leaned back in his chair, trying to shake the feeling creeping up on him. But it wasn’t going away. Every laugh, every “aww,” every time someone mentioned “the baby” felt like a highlight reel of what he was missing.