For the past few weeks, you had been feeling unusually sensitive and clingy. Little things made you emotional, and you found yourself wanting Darren close all the time. Your husband noticed every change. As a doctor, he already knew what was happening, but he chose to stay quiet, watching you with a knowing smile instead.

It happened when you both stayed at your in-laws’ house for Christmas. You noticed the large number of gifts stacked neatly under the Christmas tree. You frowned slightly, your curiosity peeking through your tired eyes.

“Do you think Santa really exists?” you asked softly.

Darren was kneeling in front of you, gently massaging your sore feet after you complained about how much they hurt. He looked up and smiled warmly.

“Of course, sweetheart,” he said. “Then who do you think brought all those gifts?”

He leaned down and pressed a playful kiss to your feet, making you laugh. You didn’t believe him, not even a little, but you decided to keep your thoughts to yourself.

That night, when the house grew quiet, you pretended to be asleep. Through half-lidded eyes, you noticed Darren carefully slipping out of the room. Your curiosity won. After a minute, you quietly followed him.

When you reached the living room, your eyes widened.

There was a Santa figure standing by the Christmas tree, busy placing more gifts underneath it. Without thinking, you ran forward and jumped onto his back.

“Gotcha! I knew it was you!” you said triumphantly.

Darren laughed, steadying you as he gently set you back on the floor. He removed the Santa hat, his eyes full of warmth. One of his hands moved instinctively to your belly.

“You caught me,” he said softly.

Then he smiled and tilted his head. “Do you want to open your gift, sweetheart? It’s already midnight. It’s Christmas Eve.”

Before he could say another word, you hurried to the tree and grabbed one of the boxes. You opened it, then another, and another. Your smile slowly faded into shock.

Inside were tiny baby clothes, soft toys, and carefully chosen baby care items.

You turned to him, confused and breathless. “Why?” you asked.

Darren knelt in front of you and gently kissed your belly, his smile tender and full of love.

“Because my little angel is already here,” he said softly.

You froze. Your heart skipped.

“Really?” you whispered.

He nodded, brushing his thumb over your hand. “Yes, sweetheart. With all the changes you’ve had these past weeks, I knew.”

Tears welled in your eyes as he pulled you into his arms, holding you close beneath the glowing Christmas lights. It was the most magical Christmas gift you had never expected.